The Heart of Anusara Yoga
• If I only had one thing to say about Anusara Yoga, it would be this: the practice and the people I have met through my years in this school have changed me for the better. They have supported me, opened me, loved me, educated me, and disciplined me. They have made me want to be a better person—to love them back, to love this precious gift of life more fully. And all of this comes from our very first principle: Open to Grace.
Anusara Yoga is more than a physical practice; it’s a method, a discipline, and a way of seeing and being in the world. At its heart, Anusara is built on three foundational elements: a radical non-dual Tantric philosophy, the Universal Principles of Alignment, and Kula, the heart-centered community that holds it all together.
Open to Grace
The first principle of Anusara Yoga, ‘Open to Grace’ is a reminder that we are part of something bigger than ourselves. It invites us to soften, to listen, and to trust the current of life. It’s not about passively surrendering but about actively stepping into a state of receptivity—an open-hearted willingness to engage with whatever life presents. This principle extends beyond the mat and into every aspect of life. When we open to grace, we cultivate the ability to meet challenges with resilience and gratitude. We stop fighting the flow and instead learn to move with it, or, go with the flow!.
A Radical Non-Dual Philosophy
Anusara Yoga is rooted in a non dual Tantric philosophy that sees the world as an expression of divine consciousness. Rather than viewing life as something to transcend, it embraces the idea that everything—even our struggles—can be part of our path. This non-dual perspective means that we don’t separate the spiritual from the physical, the sacred from the ordinary. It’s all part of the same whole.
For me, this philosophy was a game changer. It changed the ‘why’ of my practice radically. This approach to yoga isn’t about perfection, it’s about participation. It’s about showing up, again and again, with an open heart and a willingness to learn.
The Universal Principles of Alignment
The Universal Principles of Alignment (UPAs) are what make Anusara unique as a physical practice. These 5 principles provide a clear and intelligent way to align the body, mind and heart in asana, supporting both safety and freedom. They are not rigid rules but adaptable guidelines that allow for individuality in practice.
5 UPAs
1.Open to Grace
2.Muscular Energy
3.Inner Spiral
4.Outer Spiral
5.Organic Energy
These biomechanical principles are deeply therapeutic, making them particularly relevant for yoga therapists. When we align ourselves well, energy flows more freely, and the body moves toward balance and healing. The UPAs teach us to work with the bodies intelligence, engage our muscles and create stability while remaining open. The practice moves us towards our unique optimal blueprint. As someone who has worked with students from all walks of life—those recovering from injuries, those managing chronic pain, and those simply wanting to move better—I have seen firsthand how these alignment principles can transform a person’s relationship with their body.
The Power of Kula (Community of the Heart)
Perhaps the most profound aspect of Anusara Yoga is its global Kula—the community of the heart. Yoga is often thought of as an individual practice, but in Anusara, the collective is just as important. We practice together, learn together, and grow together. This is not a superficial sense of community; it is a deep and real connection built on shared values, mutual respect, and love.
Over the years, this Kula has become my yoga family. We meet at global, regional and Irish gatherings on a regular basis. They are there for me offering support, wisdom, and laughter, I in turn offer it back. This sense of belonging is what keeps so many of us coming back to the practice. It reminds us that we are not alone—that we are part of something much greater than ourselves.
Why This Matters for Yoga Therapy
Anusara Yoga’s integration of philosophy, alignment, and community makes it incredibly valuable for yoga therapy. The principles of alignment help students and clients find greater ease and stability in their bodies. The philosophy offers a framework for seeing challenges not as obstacles but as opportunities for growth. And the community provides essential support and connection, which is often a key component of healing.
As yoga therapists, we are not just working with bodies—we are working with people. We are holding space for their experiences, their struggles, and their triumphs. The heart of Anusara Yoga reminds us that healing is not just about fixing what is broken; it is about recognizing and nurturing the inherent wholeness that already exists within each of us.
Anusara Yoga has given me more than I could ever put into words. It has shaped me, supported me, and called me to be a better version of myself. And the best part? It continues to do so, every single day I roll the mat out.
Open To Grace: An Introduction To Anusara Yoga
If any of this interests you, I invite you to experience it for yourself. I will be leading a day-long workshop for the Yoga Therapy Ireland, where we will dive deeper into these principles, exploring how they can support both personal practice and therapeutic work. Whether you are new to Anusara or have been practicing for years, I welcome you to join me in this day of discovery, alignment, and connection.
Also check out other Health & Wellness events in Dublin, Workshops in Dublin.
