Curious to learn more about sacred geometry? So were we. To get the lowdown, we spoke to co-founder of the Sattva Collection, a jewelry company that utilizes sacred geometry in its pieces, handmade by artisans in India. Annemarie sheds some light on this mystic study.
Sacred geometry: it’s a mysterious tool used by many to manifest dreams, restore balance, and inspire connection to the mystical world. From jewelry to cannabis crops, interior design to journal entries, there are dozens of areas that call for the use of sacred geometry.
At this point you’re likely asking: OK, but what is it? Simply put, it’s where physics and mysticism collide. Not so simply, it’s the manifestation of the infinite into finite form; the capture of philosophical truths using concrete means. Even though you may not have recognized it, you’ve likely seen examples of sacred geometry in churches, mosques, megaliths, monuments, sacred groves, tabernacles, and village greens. It’s utilizing a shape (or collection of shapes) to communicate something spiritual. And when we take the time to study these patterns, as well as their forms and connections, we allow ourselves to access some of the mysteries that govern our world.
All About the Yantras
The Yantras (or shapes in sacred geometry) are said to be expressions of light. The Sanskrit word yantra comes from the word yam, meaning to sustain, hold or support the energy inherent in a particular object, element or concept. “Tra” means expansion. Every yantra is a dwelling for certain planets, elements, gods or goddesses. Yantra is one of the aspects of Tantra and works as a substitute for the image or murti (statue) of a deity
Different yantras contain specific mantras along with the subtle energy body and the vibration of the god/goddess expressing their sense of spirit and energy. The center, or bindu, from which everything radiates outward, is always the optical focus of the yantra. Awakening one’s inner center means, to gather one’s self into a single, creative point and merge with the universe. To “center” one’s self is a pathway towards inner awakening.
How many yantras are? A lot. Sri Yantra is the most powerful and celebrated of all the tantric yantras—it’s a representation of cosmic creation, which is a pretty big deal. Sri Yantra is formed by a 3-step Bhupura (a square which represents the 4 aspects of the mind: Manas, Ahamkara, Buddhi and Chitta), three radius circle (representing the trinity, cycles of time and states of consciousness), a circle of petaled lotim and two interlocking sets of triangles—four facing upward, representing the male aspect and five facing downward, representing the female aspect.
In the center triangle, we have the Bindu where Tripura Sundari (goddess of bliss, delight, total fulfillment) resides and where the merging is experienced between the masculine and feminine. Everything radiates outward from the center point.
Think of it this way: The nature of nature is to expand—all the triangles represent this expansion but still maintain the quality of stillness. When you put everything together, you ultimately have the Sri Yantra. And when invoked, Sri brings forth abundant living and connection to the feminine energy of creation which is called Shakti. Invoking the goddess within to rise and shine forth, enables one to live a life where all desires are met before they are realized. Pretty sweet, huh?
How to Use Sacred Geometry in Meditation
Meditation is a great way for folks to start dabbling in sacred geometry. To get started, try some of these tips below.
- Create a sacred space in your home where you can come and sit on a daily basis and drop into stillness.
- Do some research on your Yantras. You can use the Sri Yantra, or explore the myriad of other options that might serve you.
- Tune into what energy you would like to invoke into your life and choose the yantra that supports that intention.
- Place the yantra on a table or shelf at eye level. In front of the yantra place a small candle. Light the flame and focus your eyes on the flame for nine minutes.
- Try to blink your eyes as little as possible. Focusing your attention and intention on bringing in the qualities of that yantra into your life. Practice daily for at least a month, if you can.
The Benefits of Using Sacred Geometry
By doing any type of meditation or devotional practice we raise our deserving power. When working with yantras over time, we begin to see subtle and major shifts in our lives.
These reflect the energy that the specific yantra is expressing, such as correcting energy of spaces, illuminating qualities and spiritual knowledge of the highest order, deeper connection to the goddess energy or attuning with qualities of the sun or other planets. All leading us to living a more magical, aligned and fulfilled life.
Do you use sacred geometry in your life? How? Tell us in the comments below!
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Annemarie Brown is the co-founder of The Sattva Collection and The Sattva Summit. She is also the lead teacher the Sattva Yoga Academy in Rishikesh, India.