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Who is Shakti? Mythology, yoga and the link with Kundalini

Shakti is a Hindu goddess, considered the divine feminine force of creation, destruction and transformation. It is often associated with the goddess Devi or Durga, and represents the creative power and manifesting ability of the universe. Shakti is considered the consort of Shiva, the god of destruction and transformation, and is often depicted as a strong and protective goddess. It is associated with aspects of femininity such as motherhood, determination and strength, and is revered by Hindu devotees in many cults and rituals. Shakti is often associated with the goddess Kali, a particularly powerful manifestation of the goddess, who is often associated with destruction and transformation. However, Shakti can also be associated with softer aspects of femininity, such as blessing and healing, and is often worshipped for her beneficial and protective powers.

statue shakti

Shakti in mythology

Shakti mythology is related to the Hindu religion and focuses on the goddess Shakti, who represents the divine feminine energy. According to this mythology, Shakti is considered the creative force that animates everything in the universe, including the supreme god, Shiva.

In the Hindu tradition, Shakti is often associated with motherhood, femininity and sensuality, but also with power and strength. She is often depicted with weapons such as swords and flames to symbolize her destructive force, as well as fertility symbols, such as fruits and seeds.

The cult of Shakti is very popular in India, where many temples

What is the link between shakti yoga and kundalini yoga?

Shakti Yoga and Kundalini Yoga are often considered similar practices, as they share similarities in their spiritual approach and their use of the life force called Kundalini.

Shakti Yoga focuses on the awakening and expression of the feminine life force called Shakti. It uses yoga postures, dance movements, conscious breathing and meditations to activate and harmonize the flow of energy in the body.

Kundalini Yoga, on the other hand, focuses on awakening the Kundalini force, which is often described as a spiritual energy coiled at the bottom of the spine. It uses yoga postures, conscious breathing and meditation to activate and circulate Kundalini energy throughout the body.

Although the two practices share similarities, they may also have different approaches and techniques. It is important to choose the practice that is best for you and to pursue it with a qualified teacher for best results.

What is Shakti Yoga?

Shakti Yoga is a form of yoga that emphasizes the use of physical and mental strength to achieve a heightened state of consciousness. It focuses on fluid movements, challenging postures and breathing techniques to stimulate the vital energy (prana) in the body. The ultimate goal is to release the creative force (shakti) to reach a state of spiritual liberation. Shakti Yoga can be practiced by beginners and experienced practitioners alike and can be adapted to suit different fitness levels.

Shakti Yoga is a practice that focuses on the awakening and expression of the female life force called Shakti. According to Hindu tradition, Shakti is considered the divine goddess who embodies the creative power of life. She is often associated with Durga, Kali and Parvati and is considered the divine mother who symbolizes the feminine creative energy.

Shakti yoga uses yoga postures, breathing techniques and meditation to activate and harmonize the flow of energy in the body. The practice may also include acupressure, massage and other techniques to improve blood flow.

Shakti yoga is often associated with Shiva, the male god who represents divine consciousness. Tantric practices aim at concretizing the union of these two divine forces through symbolic rites. Shakti yoga aims to unify these two energies within us to produce a more awakened consciousness and increased creative power in our daily lives.

Sri Aurobindo an Indian philosopher and yogi, wrote about the importance of the creative feminine energy in the divine and material world. He codified the sexual act as a passageway to spiritual fulfillment and saw the delivery of feminine creative energy as the key to producing a more awakened consciousness.

Shakti yoga is often taught by qualified teachers such as Sally Kempton and John McLaughlin. It is available at local yoga studios and can also be found online. By choosing to practice Shakti yoga, you can improve your physical and mental health while exploring the spiritual aspects of your life.

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What are the shakti yoga positions?

Shakti yoga may include various postures (asanas) that are designed to strengthen the body and balance energy. Here are some examples of popular postures:

  1. The mountain (Tadasana)
  2. The candle (Urdhva Dhanurasana)
  3. The warrior 1 (Virabhadrasana 1)
  4. The warrior 2 (Virabhadrasana 2)
  5. Head down posture (Adho Mukha Vrksasana)
  6. Head down dog pose (Adho Mukha Svanasana)
  7. The plank posture (Kumbhakasana)
  1. The half-bridge (Ardha Setu Bandha Sarvangasana)
  2. The cobra (Bhujangasana)
  3. The cigarette posture (Savasana)

It is important to note that Shakti yoga can vary by teacher and tradition, so it is best to take classes in person with a qualified teacher for the most accurate instruction and adjustments.

What are the benefits of Shakti Yoga?

Shakti yoga can have several benefits for the body and mind, including:

  1. Improved flexibility and muscle strength.
  2. Reduction of stress and anxiety.
  3. Stimulation of blood circulation and breathing.
  4. Balance of hormones and nervous system.
  5. Building self-confidence and self-esteem.
  6. Improved quality of sleep.
  7. Increased self-awareness and meditation.
  8. Relief from chronic pain.
  9. Promotes greater mental and emotional flexibility.

It is important to note that the benefits depend on the frequency and regularity of the practice, as well as the quality of the teaching received. Therefore, it is recommended that you attend in-person classes with a qualified teacher to get the most accurate instructions and adjustments.

How to practice Shakti yoga?

Here are some steps to practice Shakti yoga:

  1. Find a quiet, comfortable place for your practice.
  2. Wear comfortable clothing that allows good air circulation.
  3. Start with stretching to warm up your body.
  4. Practice postures (asanas) following a teacher’s instructions or using online resources.
  5. Breathe deeply and consciously during each asana.
  6. Finish your practice with relaxation postures.
  7. Hydrate after practice.

It is important to develop a regular practice and work progressively to maximize the benefits of Shakti Yoga for your body and mind.

Where to practice shakti yoga?

You can practice Shakti yoga in several locations, including:

  1. Dedicated yoga studios: There are many yoga studios that offer Shakti yoga classes. You can find a studio near you by searching online or by looking in local directories.
  2. Fitness Centre: Some gyms offer yoga classes in addition to their regular activities.
  3. Online: There are many online yoga videos, especially on YouTube, that can help you practice at home.
  4. Yoga events: There are many yoga events in parks, on the beach and in other outdoor locations.
  5. Private Teachers: You can also find a private teacher who can give you one-on-one Shakti Yoga classes.

It is important to choose a location that is most convenient for you and to check the safety conditions and qualifications of the teacher before you sign up for a class.

Link between Durga and acupuncture

Acupressure is an important aspect of Hindu worship in India, which aims to provide relaxation and relief from pain and stress. It is based on the principles of acupuncture, a practice of traditional Chinese medicine, which uses pressure points to improve energy flow.

In Hinduism, acupressure is associated with female deities such as Durga and Sri, who are considered healing goddesses. The Tantric text describes prakriti, or the feminine force of creation, as the source of all life and union with the world.

Acupressure practices in the Hindu world include massaging certain areas of the body using the fingers to apply pressure to acupuncture points. It is considered an effective way to treat stress and pain related disorders, as well as to enhance overall health.

Ultimately, acupressure is an important aspect of Hinduism and a popular practice in India for relaxation. It is based on the principle of the union of the mind, body and universe, and offers a unique experience to enhance health and well-being.

If you want to know more about the philosophy of yoga see this article .

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