Is there a huge problem with Vinyasa? episode artwork

EPISODE · Dec 9, 2025 · 31 MIN

Is there a huge problem with Vinyasa?

from Functional Spirituality · host Ava Irani

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  Studio: @spandaschool  Lavandula Botanicals: @lavandula.botanicals  

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

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Is there a huge problem with Vinyasa?

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This episode was published on December 9, 2025.

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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...

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