Yoga is many things, but if there’s one word that sums it up, it’s balance. And when it comes to balance, few teachings are as pivotal as the concept of the Gunas. Let’s unpack this, no fluff, no faff, and make it real for your life today.
So, what are these mysterious Gunas? Simply put, they’re the three qualities of energy that influence everything – your mind, your body, and the world around you. They’re like the undercurrent of your day, shaping how you feel, act, and experience life. These three qualities are:
- Tamas: the heavy, inert, lethargic vibe
- Rajas: the fiery, restless, always-on-the-go energy
- Sattva: the calm, clear, harmonious state we’re all aiming for
Here’s the catch: These Gunas aren’t inherently “good” or “bad”. Each has its purpose, but too much of one, and you’re out of whack. Let’s dig into each and see where you might need a bit of recalibration.
Tamas: Stuck in the Mud
Ever felt like you just can’t get off the sofa? Like the weight of the world (or last night’s pizza) is keeping you glued to Netflix? That’s Tamas in full swing. It’s the energy of stillness and grounding, which we need in small doses, but too much leaves us feeling stuck, uninspired, and foggy.
What to do:
- Shake things up with a Sun Salutation or a more energising Solarising (Sun) practice.
- Get outside. Fresh air and sunlight can work wonders.
- Try eating lighter foods that don’t leave you sluggish.
Rajas: The Never-Ending Hustle
On the flip side, there’s Rajas – that buzzing, over-caffeinated energy that has you scrolling TikTok at 2 a.m. or signing up for every meeting at work. Rajas keeps us moving, which is great for getting stuff done, but too much can lead to burnout, anxiety, and a mind that just won’t shut up.
What to do:
- Slow it down with a grounding Moon Practice or gentle Yin Yoga.
- Try breathwork (Pranayama) to cool the fire, like Nadi Shodhana or Chandra Bhedana.
- Swap stimulants like coffee for herbal teas that don’t jack up your system.
Sattva: The Sweet Spot
Ah, Sattva. The holy grail of the Gunas. This is where clarity, peace, and ease live. When Sattva is running the show, you feel like your best self – balanced, productive without being frantic, and totally in tune with your surroundings. But here’s the rub: Sattva isn’t permanent. It’s a state we cultivate, moment by moment.
What to do:
- Prioritise regular yoga practice to keep your energy balanced.
- Meditate daily, even if it’s just for five minutes.
- Eat a clean, wholesome diet that nourishes your body and mind.
How Yoga Helps Balance the Gunas
Yoga is like your Guna toolkit. Whether you’re feeling heavy, hyper, or serene, the right practice can bring you back to centre. Here’s how different yoga classes at Yoga Local align with the Gunas:
- Tamas-dominant? Try a fiery Sun Practice to awaken your energy and shake off the inertia.
- Rajas running rampant? A calming Moon Practice can help you slow down and reconnect with stillness.
- Seeking Sattva? Look for balance-based classes that blend effort with ease, Fire Hatha or meditation-focused sessions.
The Gunas and Everyday Life
This isn’t just about what happens on the mat. The Gunas show up in your daily habits, relationships, and mindset. Ask yourself:
- Where am I leaning too far into Tamas? (Am I procrastinating, avoiding challenges, or feeling stuck?)
- Where is Rajas taking over? (Am I overcommitting, struggling to relax, or chasing endless distractions?)
- How can I cultivate more Sattva today? (Am I creating space for peace, clarity, and joy?)
Use your practice as a mirror to reflect on where you’re out of balance and a guide to bring you back to harmony.
Ready for more?
Ready to balance your energy and step into your most harmonious self? Join us for classes at Yoga Local this January, where we’ll explore practices designed to purify and align with the Gunas. And don’t forget to download the Yoga Local App – your anytime, anywhere online yoga studio and community.
Let’s bring a little Sattva into your world. You’ve got this!
J
