In this episode, we step back and look at capoeira not as a set of movements, but as a philosophy and a way of life.
Capoeira is a young, evolving art — shaped by communities rather than institutions, by creativity rather than rigid rules. There is no single definition, no fixed system, and no universal philosophy. And that may be its greatest strength.
At the center of this chapter is the roda — a space that mirrors life itself. In the roda, you learn to fall and get back up, to adapt when the rhythm changes, and to respond creatively to what’s in front of you. Feedback is immediate, presence is required, and progress comes from participation, not theory.
We explore how capoeira teaches adaptability, creativity, rhythm, integrated presence of mind and body, and a deep sense of respect and equality. It’s a practice that trains perception as much as movement — and offers a powerful metaphor for navigating life with awareness, autonomy, and grace.
Even if you’ve never practiced capoeira, this episode may help you understand why so many people are deeply captivated by it — and why it continues to shape the way they think, teach, and live.
The book "50 Lessons on Capoeira, Teaching, and Life" by Alex Maltsev
Contact: mail-podcast@alexmaltsev.me
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by Audiochuck Media Company.
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!