What is Mandala Vinyasa?
Just like in our regular vinyasa flow classes, we link the breath with moving in a rhythmic, dynamic way. A mandala is a figure that represents the universe. In mandala vinyasa, we use all 4 corners of the mat, moving in 360 degree spirals.
The spiral patterns represent the cyclical essence of nature which we integrate into the practice through considering the elements of earth, water, air, and fire.
We become Earth when we need to be steady and stable.
We are water when we need to be fluid and soft.
We are air when we need to be light and open.
We become fire when we need transformation.
Each element of nature correlates to a specific chakra (energy centre) and targets a certain area of the body.
The repetition of targeting that body area throughout the practice creates familiarity and comfort in the objective to connect to the element. The target area is reinforced in different perspectives through the warm up, mandala flow section, the standing series, and the seated series.
So when it comes to a dynamic practice, which class should I take, Vinyasa Flow or Mandala?
It depends on your intention! Vinyasa flow is linear and mandala is circular. In mandala I will tend to give less aesthetic instruction on each pose as compared to vinyasa where I focus more on alignment. Both practices are rhythmic and dynamic but mandala tends to build extra heat, because for every one Chaturanga we do in vinyasa flow, we do two in mandala. For these reasons, if you are a beginner I recommend first trying vinyasa flow. However, modifications in mandala will of course be offered, so give it a try… you will love it!
