The Essence of Yoga: A Conversation with Jason Heisserer

In a time when yoga is often reduced to a series of physical postures or the latest fitness trend, Jason Heisserer stands out as a teacher deeply rooted in the practice’s spiritual and philosophical traditions. With a background in education, school leadership, therapy, and a passion for storytelling, Jason brings an enriched perspective to his teaching, one that integrates the ancient wisdom of yoga with modern life. I had the privilege of sitting down with Jason to explore his journey, his teaching philosophy, and the transformative power of yoga—both on and off the mat.

Constance: Let’s start with the basics. How do you pronounce your last name?

Jason: It’s pronounced High-zer-er.

Constance: Got it! Thank you. You have such a dynamic background— baking, education, therapy, consulting, OPERA SINGING—but today, we’re focusing on yoga. How did your journey with yoga begin? Was there a pivotal moment that drew you in?

Jason: My journey started at 16 when my mom taught me sun salutations in our living room. I don’t recall why exactly, but in the ’90s, in Springfield, Illinois, she was attending yoga classes. She showed me Surya Namaskar, and something about it just clicked. Even when I wasn’t practicing much else, I’d always return to that sequence.

Later, I walked into Big Bend Yoga. The teacher suggested I jump into a Level 1 class since I already had a bit of foundation, thanks to my mom. Another memory from those early days is eagle pose. There was something grounding and dynamic about Garudasana that really stuck with me.

Constance: That’s such an interesting origin story—starting in your living room and growing from there. You mentioned Big Bend Yoga, one of St. Louis’s iconic yoga studios. Did you practice with Kitty?

Jason: Yes, I did! Kitty was wonderful. Through Big Bend, I connected with incredible teachers like Matthew and Holly Krepps from Circle Yoga Shala, Saul David Raye, and Dave Stringer. Kitty let me chant during Savasana occasionally, which was such an honor. Those early experiences truly shaped my approach to teaching.

Constance: Big Bend Yoga was so special—it really catered to the sincere practitioner. You’ve mentioned yoga philosophy. How do you integrate that into your classes?

Jason: I like to weave it into the flow organically. Instead of a formal dharma talk at the beginning, I thread philosophy throughout the practice. For example, while holding Warrior II, I might share the story of Virabhadra or reflect on how ahimsa—non-violence—applies to both the pose and our lives.

I also love sharing the meanings behind postures. Take utkatasana—chair pose. The name itself is fascinating. “Ut” means intense, and “kat” refers to pride. In ancient India, chairs were rare, a symbol of honor. Understanding this adds depth, transforming the pose from just physical effort to something more meaningful.

Constance: That’s fascinating! Your passion for storytelling definitely shines through. How does it shape your teaching style?

Jason: Storytelling is central for me. My guru was a storyteller, and I try to carry that tradition forward. Whether it’s a sutra or a myth, I integrate it into the practice in a way that connects back to the body and breath. It’s all about balance—enough storytelling to inspire without overshadowing the meditative flow of the practice.

Constance: Beyond the mat, how do you engage with yoga in your daily life?

Jason: For me, yoga is about living skillfully. The Bhagavad Gita’s lesson of “skill in action” resonates deeply. It’s about finding a rhythm that allows me to be present in work, rest, and relationships. I also engage in study and reflection, and enjoy exploring ancient texts to find their relevance for today.

Constance: Would you identify more with the tantric or Vedantic traditions?

Jason: I’ve always thought of myself as more Vedantic, but now you’ve got me reflecting! I’ll have to get back to you about that. Thank you for that question. I’m drawn to the mystical elements of all spiritual traditions, from Sufism to Kabbalah. Yoga feels like a home for that curiosity.

Constance: What are some of your favorite poses to teach and embody?

Jason: I often say I’m a teacher of foundational poses because they resonate most with my body. I love trikonasana—triangle pose. It feels like the perfect embodiment of balance. I also love backbends and standing poses, like the Warrior series and prasarita padottanasana.

My background in singing has given me a unique awareness of the spine and breath. Singers understand how to engage the full circumference of breath, and that awareness informs my practice.

Constance: Trikonasana is such a satisfying pose—both grounding and expansive.

Jason: Exactly!

Constance: Are there any misconceptions about yoga that you’d like to clear up?

Jason: Yoga is often seen as purely physical, but there’s so much depth to its off-the-mat aspects. It’s not that modern interpretations are wrong, but there’s a rigor and richness to the practice that goes beyond poses.

Constance: I agree. Honoring yoga’s roots is so important—not dogmatically, but with curiosity and respect.

Jason: Curiosity, absolutely... Yoga invites a profound sense of awe and wonder. That’s where its true magic lies for me.

Constance: Yes. Looking ahead, what’s next for you in yoga?

Jason: I’m excited to become a yoga therapist. I’m in the midst of a 300-hour yoga teacher training with Jason Crandell and will likely pursue yoga therapy certification through Circle Yoga Shala. I want to  integrate yoga therapy into studio classes, one-on-one sessions, and my work as a therapist  

Constance: That sounds amazing. What a perfect combination. Final question—what impact do you hope your teaching has on your students?

Jason: I hope it inspires awe and wonder about themselves and the marvel of being alive, even in challenging times. Through yoga, breath, and mindful movement, I want to help people create body awareness and move with purpose.

Constance: Beautifully said. Thank you so much, Jason. I’m so grateful to have you join our yoga community!

Jason embodies yoga’s essence—a practice of skillful living, storytelling, and awe. His teaching inspires students to look beyond the physical and embrace the wonder of being alive. His dedication to honoring yoga’s roots while making it accessible to modern practitioners is sure to leave a lasting impact.