Whether you’re an experienced yogi or relatively new, you probably know that yoga comes in many forms. While some are calming and reflective, others definitely keep your heart pumping throughout the class. One playful style to try is a mandala yoga flow (also called a circular yoga flow). It's active, it demands your attention, and it’s a whole lot of fun. If your yoga practice feels stagnant lately and you want to shake things up a bit, I think you’ll love this mandala flow.
What is a mandala flow?
Both in Hinduism and Buddhism, the mandala is an ancient spiritual symbol in the shape of a diagram that represents ‘wholeness’. In yoga, a mandala-style flow draws upon this wholeness and shape to create a dynamic sequence that has you moving around your mat in a circular pattern, much like the shape of a mandala itself. It can require a lot of focus and stamina as you’ll be constantly changing asanas - better known as ‘postures’ - though there are slower-paced and more gentle flows, too.
The benefits
It’s not only fun but practicing a mandala flow has some great benefits for your mind and body. Since it’s not your standard yoga flow, it helps you to break out of your usual routine. Secondly it challenges your body awareness and coordination because you really have to focus. You will definitely benefit from this flow because it works your mind and body. Chances are you’ll feel more creative after this session, that’s because mandala yoga has the power to inspire you to think outside the box in stepping off and around the mat. Last but not least, you will increase stamina and flexibility. Now, let’s get our heart rates up by doing this energetic flow together!