Anusara Yoga is a modern school of yoga started by John Friend in 1997; it is a popular hatha yoga style with a Tantric philosophy. Friend continues to take an active role leading the expansion of the school and training (and certifying) teachers.

The emphasis of the school is on a set of "Universal Principles of Alignment" which underlie all postures, "heart opening" postures and the spiritual/meditative benefits of hatha yoga.

Attainable bliss and joy in practice and everyday life are an important aspect of the underlying philosophy of this school. Many western students with a modernist bent find this school attractive.

Opening Invocation

Each Anusara class typically opens with the singing of the following mantra:

As Sanskrit is a concept-based language, a literal translation is

"I bow to the goodness within myself, the manifestation of Lord Shiva, as the true teacher.
This essence inside is the form of truth, consciousness, and bliss
It is always present and full of peace,
It completely free, and burns brightly with divine light."