Spanda: The pulse of life
Shiva Nataraj: The lord of the dance
At the core of Kashmir Shaivism, a yogic lineage from the Himalayan sages, lies the Sanskrit term “Spanda”—a concept embodying the dynamic pulse of the universe, signifying “divine vibration” or “pulse.” This notion captures the subtle movements of Consciousness, marked by rhythmic cycles of expansion and contraction.
As I sit here, immersed in the whirlwind of life’s recent ups and downs, I am captivated by the raw, pulsating essence of our existence. It has been a time of significant change for me, highlighted by:
The closure of one chapter due to redundancy from a job that provided security and comfort.
A rejuvenating retreat to Bali, where I spent most of my time in deep rest, nourishment, and reflection—often beside a pool.
The unforeseen journey of becoming a homeowner, complete with the challenges of a flooding garage in my new home.
The joyous beginning of a new chapter with my partner—we are ENGAGED.
The release of certain projects and the welcoming of new, thrilling opportunities.
As these teachings reveal themselves, with their peaks and valleys, I am eager to share them and an embodiment practice with you, serving as a reminder of the perpetual dance we engage in with each passing moment. We all have our own stories and experiences and it can be comforting to dive into this universal teaching.
-
The teachings of Spanda come to us from the Spanda Karika, a series of verses that date back to the 9th Century. . These texts, believed to be divinely revealed, speak of the universe’s constant vibration, an eternal divine pulse that is both within us and around us.
Spanda in Our Lives
Spanda is not just a philosophical concept; it’s a living experience. It is the throb of life itself, the subtle yet powerful force that animates every aspect of our existence. Think each breath you take and every heartbeat. Flowing & moving us through each day.
If you know me well, you know I love a good analogy! Spanda represents our conscious balance of Night and Day, the cold contraction of winter giving way to the warm expansion of summer. A flower’s nightly close allows it to bloom anew with the morning sun… These contrasts are neither good nor bad; they deserve our equal reverence.
How to Embody Spanda When Feeling Stuck
When we feel stagnant, embodying Spanda can be a beacon of movement and growth. A shift from ur contracted state, to an expansive one.
Here’s a somatic practice to reconnect with the pulsating life force:
Find a quiet space and settle into a comfortable seated position.
Close your eyes and bring your attention to your breath. Notice its natural flow, the expansion and contraction of your chest and belly.
Visualise your body as a vessel for Spanda. With each inhalation, imagine expanding, filling up with potential and space. With each exhalation, visualize condensing, grounding, and centering yourself.
Continue this rhythmic breathing, allowing the sensation of expansion and contraction to become more pronounced. Feel the pulsation, the Spanda, as it moves through you.
As you breathe, invite gentle movement into your body. With each inhale, reach your arms outward or upward, expanding your physical presence. With each exhale, draw your arms inward, embracing your core.
Practice this for several minutes, syncing your movement with your breath, embodying the cosmic rhythm of Spanda.
When you’re ready, gradually bring your practice to a close. Sit quietly for a moment, acknowledging the Spanda within and around you.
So, let this entry be my reminder to you: through everything, trust that the universe is orchestrating in your favor. If you find yourself feeling depleted—or even defeated—where you can, allow yourself to rest, with the assurance that EXPANSION awaits just beyond the horizon.
