Introduction
IntroductionYoga symbols carry significant meaning and can help to deepen our connection with ourselves, others, and our practice. As yoga practitioners, we often come across yoga symbols in our practice, whether it’s through the chanting of Om, the use of mandalas in meditation, or the gesture of placing our hands together in prayer position at the heart center to say Namaste at the end of a class.
Namaste, for example, is a symbol of respect and humility, acknowledging the divine spark within each of us and honoring the unity that connects us all. By incorporating these symbols into our practice and understanding their meanings, we can cultivate a greater sense of mindfulness, compassion, and spiritual awareness, both on and off the mat.
The literal meaning of “namaste” in Sanskrit is “I bow to you” or “I bow to the divine in you.”
How are yoga symbols useful?
Yoga symbols are used to deepen the practice of yoga and help practitioners connect with their inner selves. They are often incorporated into yoga poses, meditations, and rituals to enhance their meaning and significance.
These symbols are ancient and powerful tools that can help guide our minds into a more relaxed and peaceful state. They provide tangible visual reminders of the inner peace and wisdom that exists within us while stimulating new insights.
When using popular yoga symbols, it’s important to connect with their deeper spiritual meaning in order to tap into the power of our awareness.
Why should Yoga practitioners know and understand the meaning of yoga symbols?
Knowing and understanding yoga symbols can have several benefits for yoga practitioners.
1. It can deepen our understanding and appreciation of the rich history and culture behind the practice of yoga.
2. It can enhance our spiritual connection and provide a deeper sense of meaning and purpose to our practice.
3. Incorporating symbols into yoga poses and meditations can help to focus the mind and enhance the benefits of the practice.
4. Understanding yoga symbols can help us to communicate with others in the yoga community, allowing us to share our knowledge and connect on a deeper level.
Overall, a deeper understanding of yoga symbols can enhance our yoga practice. It can enrich our overall experience of the practice. Although it is impossible to know and understand all yoga symbols, still it is good to know and understand the popular ones that we come across in our everyday practice.
How many Yoga Symbols are there?
It may be impossible to quote a number here. The truth is that there is no specific number of symbols associated with yoga, as it is an ancient practice with a rich history and cultural significance. While many symbols are original, over time, various symbols, gestures, and motifs have become associated with yoga and its principles. Also, different traditions and lineages have their own unique symbols or representations.
It is quite possible that some symbols or practices may have been lost or forgotten over time. Therefore, it may not possible to give an exact number of yoga symbols that exist but there are some common ones we see and use a lot these days.
Popular Yoga symbols and their meaning
#1. Om, the sound of creation
Om is a sacred sound and mantra used in yoga as a way to connect with the present moment, center the mind, and cultivate a sense of inner peace and harmony.
Om also spelled Aum, is a sacred sound and has significant spiritual and cultural importance in Yoga. It is one of the most important and powerful mantras in yoga practice and is chanted as a way to connect with the divine and promote inner peace.
The symbol of Om consists of three Sanskrit letters, A, U, and M, which together represent the three states of being and the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. The three letters also represent the fundamental principles of the universe: the three states of being, waking, dreaming, and deep sleep.
In yoga, Om is often chanted at the beginning or end of a yoga practice, or as part of meditation. The sound of Om has calming and balancing effect on the mind and body, helping to reduce stress and promote relaxation. It is also used as a way to focus the mind and deepen our connection to the inner self and the divine.
The significance of this ancient symbol can be realized by this quote in the Upanishads:
“The very self(atman) is OM. Anyone who knows this enters the self(atman) by herself”
#2. Ganesha, the lord of new beginnings
Ganesha’s energy can help overcome obstacles and challenges in pursuit of living a yogic life.
Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity is widely revered as the remover of obstacles, patron of arts and sciences, and the deva of intellect and wisdom.
The Ganesha symbol is a powerful and widely used icon in the practice of yoga. Ganesha is invoked to promote success, abundance, and good fortune, as well as to cultivate a sense of inner wisdom and strength.
When used in meditation and yoga practice, Ganesha’s energy can help us overcome obstacles and challenges in our pursuit of living a yogic life.
When working with the Ganesha symbol in yoga, it is important to approach it with reverence and respect, recognizing its power and significance in Hindu culture and mythology.
#3. Nataraja, The cosmic dancer
An embodiment of Lord Shiva is a symbol used in yoga to represent the cycle of creation and destruction, as well as the balance between stillness and movement in the practice.
Nataraja is a depiction of Lord Shiva, the god of destruction of evil and transformation, as a cosmic dancer. The Nataraja image is one of the most iconic representations of Lord Shiva and is widely revered as a symbol of divine creation and destruction.
The origin of the Nataraja symbol in yoga is rooted in Hindu mythology. According to legend, Lord Shiva performed the cosmic dance of destruction, known as the Tandava, in order to destroy an evil demon. The dance was so powerful that it caused the entire universe to shake and tremble. The Nataraja image depicts Lord Shiva in the midst of this dance, with one foot on the ground and the other lifted high in the air, surrounded by flames.
In yoga, the Nataraja symbol is often used as a representation of the transformative power of yoga practice. It can help practitioners to overcome obstacles, transform their lives, and achieve a state of union with the divine. The image of Lord Shiva dancing also represents the interconnectedness of all things. The dance is seen as a representation of the cyclical nature of existence.
#4. Goddess Kali, the destroyer of illusion
Kali is a symbolic representation of the transformative energy within us, which can be harnessed through yoga for personal growth and spiritual evolution.
The symbolism of Goddess Kali is often used to represent the power of transformation, the fierce energy of the divine feminine, and the ability to overcome obstacles.
According to legend, Goddess Kali emerged from the forehead of the goddess Durga during a battle with the demon Raktabija. She is often depicted with a fierce expression, a necklace of skulls, and a skirt made of severed human arms. Despite her fierce appearance, Goddess Kali is widely revered as a symbol of transformation, liberation, and spiritual growth.
The symbolism of the goddess is used to represent the ability to overcome fear, let go of Maya, and connect with our inner strength. By incorporating this symbolism into our practice, we can rise above Maya or illusions of separation and fulfill our ultimate purpose of the union of the lower self with the higher self.
#5. The third eye
The third eye symbol in yoga represents inner vision and intuition. It is located at the center of the forehead,
The third eye is located at the center of the forehead. It is associated with intuition, insight, and spiritual awareness. It is often referred to as the gateway to higher consciousness. The symbolism of the third eye is deeply rooted in the history and philosophy of yoga. It has been used for centuries as a tool for spiritual awakening and self-discovery.
The origin of the third eye symbolism in yoga can be traced back to ancient texts, including the Upanishads and the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. These texts describe the third eye as a source of inner knowledge and insight, and as a tool for spiritual awakening and enlightenment.
In yoga practice, the symbolism of the third eye is often used as a focal point for meditation and visualization. By focusing on the third eye, we can cultivate a sense of inner stillness and awareness and can connect with our intuition and spiritual insights. The third eye is also associated with the element of light. It is often used as a symbol of inner illumination and spiritual awakening.
The symbolism of the third eye in yoga is a powerful tool for spiritual awakening and self-discovery.
#6. Shiva’s Trisul or trident
The trisul symbol in yoga, also known as the trident, represents the three aspects of consciousness: waking, dreaming, and deep sleep, and is associated with Lord Shiva.
The Trisul, also known as the trident, is a symbol of Lord Shiva, a major deity in Yoga. The trisul is a three-pronged spear that symbolizes. Lord Shiva is often depicted holding a trisul in one of his hands, which represents his power to destroy ignorance and create spiritual transformation.
The three prongs of trisul are also associated with the three gunas or qualities of nature – sattva, rajas, and tamas. Trisul represents the transcendence of these qualities through spiritual practice.
By incorporating the trisul symbol into our practice, we can connect with the energy of Lord Shiva and use it as a tool for rising above ignorance.
#7. Holy number “108”
The number 108 is considered a holy and auspicious number in yoga, representing the wholeness of existence, with its significance seen in the 108 beads on a mala, 108 sun salutations, and 108 prostrations
The number 108 is often used as a symbolic and powerful tool for meditation, mindfulness, and spiritual growth.
Number 108 is associated with a variety of spiritual and cosmic phenomena. For example, there are said to be 108 sacred sites in India, and the distance between the Earth and the Sun is said to be 108 times the diameter of the Sun. In addition, the number 108 is seen as a powerful number in numerology and is believed to have many symbolic meanings.
In yoga practice, the number 108 is often used as a focal point for meditation and mindfulness. One common practice is to recite a mantra or chant 108 times, using a mala or prayer beads to keep count. This practice helps practitioners to deepen their focus and concentration, and to connect with the transformative power of the mantra or chant.
There are 108 energy channels, or nadis, in the body. By focusing on the number 108, practitioners can cultivate awareness of these energy channels. They can use this awareness to enhance their yoga practice and promote physical and spiritual health.
#8. Peepal Leaves and the Bodhi tree
The peepal or bodhi tree, a symbol in yoga, represents the tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment and is seen as a reminder of the potential for spiritual awakening within oneself.
The Peepal tree, also known as the sacred fig or Bodhi tree, is a symbol of enlightenment and spiritual awakening. It is believed to have many healing and transformative properties.
The origin of the Peepal tree symbol in yoga can be traced back to ancient texts. In these texts, it is revered as a sacred tree. It is associated with many spiritual and cosmic phenomena. Meditating under the tree can bring about spiritual awakening and transformation. Siddharta Gautama meditated under the Pepal tree and transformed into the Buddha.
In addition, the Peepal tree is believed to have many medicinal properties. It is used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine to treat a variety of ailments.
The Peepal tree is also used in yoga practice as a symbol of the interconnectedness of all things. The tree is believed to have deep roots that connect it to the earth, and far-reaching branches that connect it to the sky.
#9. Lotus Flower, a symbol of purity
The lotus flower is a symbol of purity, enlightenment, and spiritual growth. It is often used as a metaphor for the journey of the soul from darkness to light, from ignorance to knowledge, and from materialism to spirituality. In yoga, the lotus flower is also used as a symbol and as an inspiration for many yoga poses and meditation techniques.
The lotus, a symbol in yoga, represents purity, spiritual growth, and the journey toward enlightenment, as it emerges from muddy waters to bloom into a beautiful flower.
The lotus flower is a miraculous symbol of hope and inspiration. It grows in the muddy and murky waters of ponds and lakes, yet it emerges from the depths to bloom into a beautiful and pristine flower. This extraordinary ability to rise above the dirt and darkness of its surroundings is what makes the lotus so special.
In many ways, this is comparable to the practice of yoga and its objective of enlightenment. Just as the lotus grows and rises above muddy waters, yoga teaches us to transcend our limitations and rise above the challenges and struggles of our lives.
Yoga reminds us that we can transcend our current circumstances and have the power to transform ourselves and our world. Like the lotus, we can rise above the dirt and darkness of our lives, and emerge into a state of grace, beauty, and enlightenment.
#10. Red, Mustard, and White color
Red symbolizes energy, mustard represents courage and sacrifice, while white represents purity and clarity, all of which are important aspects of yoga practice.
The colors red, mustard, and white colors are commonly used in yogic rituals and pooja and have deep significance.
Red is considered a sacred and auspicious color that represents power, and passion for truth. It is often associated with the goddess Shakti, who represents divine feminine energy and is often depicted wearing red clothing.
Mustard is a deep yellow color that is also considered auspicious. It is often used in rituals and poojas to represent knowledge, learning, and devotion.
The color white is associated with purity, clarity, and enlightenment.
Wearing white clothing during yoga practice is said to help amplify the energy of the practice and enhance spiritual awareness. It also helps absorb and reflect the energy of the surroundings, promoting a sense of purity and clarity in the mind and body.
In addition to clothing, the color white is also used in yoga studio design and decor. Many yoga studios use white walls and natural lighting to create a peaceful and calming atmosphere for practitioners.
In yogic rituals and poojas, red, mustard, and white colors may be used in various ways, such as in the decoration of altars, the clothing worn by practitioners, and the offerings made to deities.
For example, flowers such as red roses and marigolds are often used in poojas, and mustard and red paste are applied to the forehead as a symbol of spiritual purification.
#11. Mandala, the symbol of celebration
Mandalas in yoga represent a symbolic and sacred geometric design used for meditation and visualization to promote spiritual and mental balance and harmony.
Mandala is a Sanskrit word that means “circle” or “center”. It is a geometric design that represents the universe in ancient cultures including India. Mandala is a symbol of celebration, unity, harmony, and completeness. In India, mandalas are often created during festivals and religious ceremonies as a way of celebrating new beginnings and promoting spiritual well-being.
In yoga, mandalas are used as a visual aid to focus the mind and increase awareness. They are often created with intricate patterns and colors that are visually stimulating and engaging.
Mandalas are also used as a symbol of the human body in yoga. The body is often referred to as a “microcosm” of the universe, and the different parts of the body are said to correspond to different elements and energies in the universe.
#12. The Swastika, the well-being symbol
Swastika in yoga is an ancient symbol representing auspiciousness, good fortune, and well-being
The word “swastika” comes from the Sanskrit svastiká – “su” meaning “good, well” and “asti” meaning “to be”; combined together they form swas-ti which translates to mean “well being”.
The swastika is a powerful symbol of yoga philosophy. It is used as a symbol of good luck, prosperity, and abundance.
It has been used by yogis for centuries to signify the power of spiritual strength and peace. The four arms of the symbol represent the four aspects of life, including physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual growth.
By focusing on this sign during practice, yogis can find inner peace and well-being in their journey toward enlightenment.
Swastika symbolism serves as an encouragement to develop wellness within ourselves. It also offers protection from negative energies in our environment so that we may enjoy each moment without fear or trepidation!
#13. Crescent Moon, the feminine energy
The crescent moon symbol in yoga represents feminine energy and is commonly used to honor and connect with the divine feminine energy within.
The crescent moon is a symbol that has long been associated with yoga and its spiritual practices. In yoga, the crescent moon is often used as a symbol of feminine energy, intuition, and creativity.
The crescent moon is also used as a symbol of lunar energy in yoga. The lunar energy is associated with intuition, introspection, and spiritual growth. The phases of the moon are often used as a tool for meditation and reflection, with the full moon representing a time of illumination and spiritual awareness, and the new moon representing a time of new beginnings and fresh starts.
#14. Wheel of Dharma
The Wheel of Dharma, or Dharmachakra, in yoga, represents the Buddha’s teachings and the Eightfold Path and is a symbol of spiritual transformation and enlightenment.
The Wheel of Dharma, also known as the Dharmachakra, is a symbol that has a long history in Yogic traditions. It is a symbol of the teachings and wisdom of the Buddha and represents the turning of the wheel of life and the cyclical nature of existence.
The wheel is often depicted with eight spokes, which represent the Noble Eightfold Path, the Buddha’s instructions for attaining liberation from suffering. The eight spokes also represent the Eightfold Path’s components: right view, right intention, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right concentration.
The wheel of Dharma represents the Buddha’s teachings, the path to enlightenment, and the idea that all things are interconnected and constantly in motion.
In yoga practice, the Wheel of Dharma is often incorporated into meditation and visualization exercises. Although this symbol is not part of the original yogic tradition, it has become quite popular in modern-day yoga practice.
#15. Agni or “Fire”: Fire of Tapas in Yoga
Agni, or fire, is considered one of the key elements in yoga and is believed to be responsible for digestion, transformation, and purification in the body and mind.
Agni, which means “fire” in Sanskrit, is an essential symbol in yoga. It is often associated with transformation and purification and is a source of energy and vitality.
In yoga, Agni is also associated with the digestive fire or the metabolic processes that take place in the body. According to Ayurvedic tradition, a strong digestive fire is essential for good health and can help to eliminate toxins and promote physical and mental well-being.
In addition to its physical associations, Agni is also seen as a symbol of spiritual transformation in yoga. By cultivating the inner fire or Agni, practitioners can enhance their ability to process and integrate transformative experiences.
One of the key practices that are associated with Agni in yoga is the practice of tapas. Tapas, which means “to burn” or “to heat,” involves the intentional cultivation of inner heat and discipline through rigorous practice. This can involve physical practices such as asana, as well as mental practices such as fasting, meditation, and self-reflection.
Through the practice of tapas and the cultivation of Agni, yoga practitioners aim to transform their inner selves and burn away the impurities and obstacles that stand in the way of spiritual growth. This process of purification and transformation is seen as essential for achieving the ultimate goal of yoga, which is to unite the individual self with the universal Self.
#16. Namaste ( or Namaskar)
Namaskar, also known as Namaste, is a common greeting in yoga that means “I bow to the divine in you” and is typically accompanied by the Anjali Mudra hand gesture.
Namaste is a common greeting and gesture in yoga and is often used to express respect and gratitude toward others. The word “Namaste” is derived from Sanskrit, and can be translated to mean “I honor the divine in you.”
In yoga, Namaste is typically performed at the end of a class or practice, with the practitioner bringing their palms together in front of their heart and bowing their head towards their hands. This gesture is meant to symbolize the unity of the individual self with the universal Self, and to honor the sacredness of all beings.
Beyond its use as a gesture of respect and gratitude, Namaste also reflects the core principles of yoga. At its essence, yoga is a practice of unity and connection, aimed at dissolving the boundaries between the individual self and the greater universe. Namaste acknowledges this unity and connection and serves as a reminder of the deeper spiritual dimensions of the practice.
In addition to its spiritual significance, Namaste can also have practical benefits for practitioners. By expressing gratitude and respect towards others, we cultivate positive relationships and a sense of community, which can enhance our overall well-being and sense of connection.
#17 Hand Mudra: Channel inner energies
Mudras in yoga are hand gestures or seals that activate energy flow and enhance meditation, concentration, and physical and mental well-being.
Mudras are hand gestures used in yoga and meditation practices to stimulate different parts of the body and promote physical and mental well-being. Mudras are believed to activate energy channels in the body, known as nadis, which flow through the hands and fingers.
In addition to their physical and mental benefits, mudras can also be used to deepen meditation practice and enhance spiritual awareness. Practicing mudras can be a simple and effective way to improve overall well-being and achieve greater balance and harmony in body, mind, and spirit.
#18 The Conch Shell or “Shankha”
The conch shell, also known as the Shankha in Sanskrit, is an important symbol in yoga and meditation practices.
The conch shell is used to create a sacred space for spiritual practice and to awaken the energy of the breath. The sound of the conch shell purifies the atmosphere and creates a sense of peace and tranquility.
The practice of blowing a conch shell, known as Shankhnaad, is an important part of many yoga and meditation rituals. Blowing the conch shell is believed to stimulate the chakras, or energy centers, in the body, and help balance the flow of prana, or life force energy.
The conch shell is often used in traditional Indian medicine, known as Ayurveda, to treat various ailments, including asthma, bronchitis, and allergies. The conch shell is also believed to have antimicrobial properties and is used to purify water and other substances.
How should we use yoga symbols?
Yoga symbols can be powerful tools for deepening our practice and connecting with the spiritual dimensions of yoga. However, it is important to use these symbols with respect and awareness and to understand their significance and context.
One key consideration when working with yoga symbols is cultural sensitivity. Many yoga symbols, such as the Om symbol and the lotus flower, have deep cultural and historical significance. They are part of a broader tradition and context. It is essential to approach these symbols with mindfulness, respect, and humility and to avoid appropriating or misusing them in ways that could be disrespectful or harmful.
Another important consideration is personal intention and awareness. When working with yoga symbols, it is important to understand their significance and to use them in ways that are aligned with our own personal values and intentions. This can involve reflecting on the deeper meanings and insights of the symbols. Use them as tools for self-reflection, contemplation, and transformation.
Finally, it is important to remember that yoga symbols are not ends in themselves, but rather tools for deepening our practice and connecting with the spiritual dimensions of yoga. While these symbols can be powerful and inspiring, they are ultimately meant to support our own personal growth and transformation. They should be used with mindfulness and intention.
Working with yoga symbols can be a powerful and transformative practice, but it is important to approach them with respect, awareness, and humility. Use them as tools for deepening our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
Here are some tips on how best to use them:
1) Identifying Symbols: Familiarize yourself with the many common yoga symbols and images. Spend time looking at various representations of these symbols so you can recognize them quickly when meditating or performing a practice.
2) Setting Intentions: Before beginning any practice session infused with yoga symbols, set an intention for what you would like to achieve from your contemplation or meditation. This could be anything from better understanding the symbol or simply allowing it to serve as a reminder for being present in your practice.
3) Visualization: Visualization involves using the power of our imagination to create a mental image of a yoga symbol and immersing ourselves in its deeper spiritual meaning and significance. By visualizing a yoga symbol, we can tap into its core intention and connect with its underlying message on a deeper level.
Conclusion
Symbols play a significant role in the practice and philosophy of yoga. From the lotus flower to the Om symbol, these symbols serve as reminders of the deeper meanings and insights of the practice. They help practitioners to connect with the wisdom of the ages.
The use of symbols is not limited to a single cultural or historical context, and the diversity of yoga means that there are many more symbols to explore and discover beyond the ones we have discussed.
By incorporating these symbols into their practice, yoga practitioners can deepen their understanding of themselves and the world around them, and gain greater insight into their spiritual journey.
I hope you find this article helpful, do let me know your thoughts in the comments below!
