I recently completed 50 hours of training in a new style – mandala yoga. There is so much to this wonderful practice and I wanted to share a bit about what mandala yoga is, what it has done for me, and why I chose to do the training.

What is Mandala Yoga

Mandala yoga is a dynamic form of vinyasa yoga, with a twist. Instead of facing forward throughout the class, practitioners turn 360 degrees around the mat.

Moving meditiation 

The practice is a moving meditation containing a short sequence that is repeated over and over (with a few additions and changes) linking breath and movement.

The repetition of postures can allow us to connect more deeply with the target areas of the body being focused on during that particular flow. The repetition (with variations) allows for a more meditative practice whilst keeping things fresh.

The Elements

Each mandala sequence is based on one of the elements – earth, water, fire, or air. Each element has a target area of the body and the meridian channel associated with it and we’ll work with that target area and poses that help us access it.

Why spin around the mat?

The idea of spinning 360 degrees around the mat is linked to the spirals and geometric patterns found in nature. A mandala is a circular figure representing the universe and can be found throughout Hinduism and Buddhism today and in many ancient cultures throughout history.

Moving around the mat facing different directions helps us to see things from a different perspective.

What to expect

Each mandala practice opens and closes with some yin postures targeting the relevant meridian channels. In a standard 60-minute class, expect to complete three mandalas. First on the right side at the front of the mat and then on the right side at the back of the mat. Then the left side at the front and back. That is one mandala. We’ll then repeat with variations and additions building on each sequence.

Mandala and Me

The main reason I like mandala yoga is that it’s fun! This is probably because I was first introduced to the practice by one of my teachers Tor Park, just as much as it is about spinning around the mat. Tor is great fun, I highly recommend a class with her!

But I would also describe mandala yoga as meditative, challenging, and rhythmic. I like to think of it as a form of connection with nature and the universe, given the spirals in nature and the mandalas meaning the universe.

In short, for me, mandala yoga is a deep and inwardly reflective practice, whilst still being fun and physical. It has helped my body to access different postures, whilst helping me to get out of my head and just flow.

Want to try Mandala?

Join me for Mandala Mondays starting in January 2023. On the last Monday of the month I will be offering a 75 minute Mandala practice on Zoom from my home to yours. This will include a full practice plus pranyama and meditation. 

Get in touch to book.