Is there a huge problem with Vinyasa?

Episode 326 of the Functional Spirituality podcast, hosted by Ava Irani, titled "Is there a huge problem with Vinyasa?" was published on December 9, 2025 and runs 31 minutes.

December 9, 2025 ·31m · Functional Spirituality

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Summary

So many people step into a yoga class expecting an ancient practice, yet most modern vinyasa is actually a recent aesthetic invention. In this episode, Ava unpacks the toxic patterns shaping the modern yoga industry, why students often hand their authority over without realising it, and what a body led, trauma-informed practice looks and feels like in comparison. If you love yoga, teach yoga, or care about spiritual integrity, this conversation offers clarity, context and a deeper understanding of what you are truly practicing. Listen in and share how this information lands for you. Whether you agree or disagree, we welcome your reflections. Relevant links: Podcast episode: 4 stages of spiritual seeking Functional Flow Yoga Teacher Training Chapter markers: 00:00 Introduction to the topic01:43 Setting the context for this conversation07:00 Why Ava is positioned to speak on these topics12:10 What modern vinyasa actually is and the goals behind it15:44 The core issues within this style of practice20:45 A body led, trauma-informed approach compared with the medicalised yoga model26:16 The origins of Hatha Yoga and a summary of key points30:50 Invitation to share your thoughts Increasing accessibility to functional healing + non-dual spiritual oneness: www.functionalspirituality.com Free resources: Newsletter sign-up: A monthly update for me on new offers and the energy of the month. Community meditation: Join the Functional Spirituality Group and enjoy a free resource for meditators and yogis to connect to and enjoy a like-minded community. Free training - 3 part method of Functional Spirituality: Learn the clear, practical framework for deep healing, emotional regulation, and spiritual integration. Connect on Socials Where you can hear from us in daily life Personal account & Functional Spirituality: @functionalspirituality Studio: @spandaschool Lavandula Botanicals: @lavandula.botanicals

Episode Description

So many people step into a yoga class expecting an ancient practice, yet most modern vinyasa is actually a recent aesthetic invention.

In this episode, Ava unpacks the toxic patterns shaping the modern yoga industry, why students often hand their authority over without realising it, and what a body led, trauma-informed practice looks and feels like in comparison.

If you love yoga, teach yoga, or care about spiritual integrity, this conversation offers clarity, context and a deeper understanding of what you are truly practicing.

Listen in and share how this information lands for you. Whether you agree or disagree, we welcome your reflections.

Relevant links:

Podcast episode: 4 stages of spiritual seeking

Functional Flow Yoga Teacher Training

Chapter markers:

00:00 Introduction to the topic 01:43 Setting the context for this conversation 07:00 Why Ava is positioned to speak on these topics 12:10 What modern vinyasa actually is and the goals behind it 15:44 The core issues within this style of practice 20:45 A body led, trauma-informed approach compared with the medicalised yoga model 26:16 The origins of Hatha Yoga and a summary of key points 30:50 Invitation to share your thoughts

Increasing accessibility to functional healing + non-dual spiritual oneness:

www.functionalspirituality.com

Free resources:

Newsletter sign-up:

A monthly update for me on new offers and the energy of the month.

Community meditation:

Join the Functional Spirituality Group and enjoy a free resource for meditators and yogis to connect to and enjoy a like-minded community.

Free training - 3 part method of Functional Spirituality:

Learn the clear, practical framework for deep healing, emotional regulation, and spiritual integration.

Connect on Socials

Where you can hear from us in daily life

Personal account & Functional Spirituality: @functionalspirituality