Vinyasa yoga has become one of the most commonly offered styles of yoga in Brisbane yoga studios and around the world. While vinyasa yoga remains rooted in ancient Indian traditions, it is actually a relatively recent phenomenon. So why has it become so popular? The dynamic and flowing style of vinyasa yoga seems to have transformative effects on both the body and mind, and when studied in the context of Tantric philosophy and the concept of Spanda, we begin to understand why.
Tantric Philosophy and Spanda
Tantra, as a spiritual and philosophical tradition, seeks to explore the relationship between cosmic energies, consciousness, and the physical world. It embraces the idea that every aspect of life, including the body and its movements, can be a path to spiritual awakening.
The concept of Spanda in Tantric philosophy refers to the pulsation or vibration that underlies all of existence. It is the subtle and constant movement inherent in the universe, symbolizing the dynamic interplay between matter and spirit. This pulsation can be witnessed in all aspects of life, from the beating of the heart, the rhythm of the breath, the daily solar cycle, the moon cycles, the seasons, and the cycle of life.
How does Spanda relate to Vinyasa Yoga?
In vinyasa yoga, this pulsation is reflected in the synchronization of breath and movement. The transitions between poses become as important as the poses themselves. Each breath corresponds to a movement, and each movement is an expression of the underlying rhythm of life. The flowing sequences in vinyasa become a moving meditation that aligns the individual with the cosmic dance of energies.
As practitioners flow through various postures, they tap into the subtle vibrations within their bodies, experiencing the interconnectedness of breath, movement, and consciousness. This mindful movement and unfolding of the practice aligns with Tantric teachings that emphasize the importance of being fully present in each moment and engaged in the unfolding of life.
In Tantric philosophy, the body is seen as a microcosm of the universe, and the practice of yoga becomes a means of harmonizing the individual with the cosmic forces. Vinyasa, with its emphasis on fluidity and continuous motion, allows practitioners to embody the principles of Tantra. The asanas (postures) become symbolic expressions of the diverse manifestations of the divine, and the transitions between them mirror the ever-changing nature of the cosmos.
Moreover, the concept of Spanda encourages practitioners to embrace the inherent creativity and spontaneity of the practice. In Vinyasa, there is room for individual expression and variation within the framework of the sequence. This reflects the Tantric idea that the divine pulsation is not rigid but adaptable, inviting practitioners to explore and discover their unique connection to the flow of life.
Where can I practice Vinyasa Yoga in Brisbane?
At SoHo Yoga in Grange, Brisbane, several of our teachers are trained in the Tantric tradition and our vinyasa yoga classes reflect this dance with divine consciousness. For a deeper exploration of vinyasa yoga in the context of Tantric philosophy and the concept of Spanda our 100Hr Yoga Immersion and 200Hr Yoga Teacher Trainings in Brisbane take you on a journey awakening to your own divine nature as a manifestation of supreme consciousness.
To book a vinyasa yoga class in Brisbane visit sohoyoga.com.au/grange-timetable.
To find out more about our Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Training visit sohoyoga.com.au/yoga-teacher-training.