Tova Olsson ~ The Heart of Tantra Yoga: Exploring History, Philosophy, and Mythology

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Tova Olsson is a seasoned educator and scholar with over 20 years of experience in yoga philosophy, mythology, and religious studies. With a bachelor’s degree and master’s in religious studies, Tova is currently working on her PhD while actively teaching at a university level in Sweden. Tova is well-known for her engaging storytelling through social media under the handle @Saraswati_Studies, where she elaborates on Indian philosophy, mythology, and the history of yoga.

Embark on this enlightening journey through the intricacies of yoga philosophy with Tova Olsson. Listen to the full episode to unearth more engaging insights and stay tuned for more enriching content from the series.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Intersection of Yoga and Philosophy: Tova underscores that postural yoga and philosophy are deeply intertwined, advocating for a holistic study that integrates both physical practice and philosophical understanding.
  • The Power of Storytelling: Emphasizing storytelling’s significance, Tova uses mythology to captivate students and promote philosophical engagement, illustrating how myths are ever-present and align with real-life experiences.
  • Navigating Yoga’s History: She speaks to the complexity and diversity of yoga’s origins and philosophical developments, stressing the importance of informed study and discernment in practice and teaching.

In a world where yoga has increasingly become synonymous with posture-based practice, Tova Olsson’s dedication to exploring and sharing the deeper philosophical roots of yoga offers a refreshing perspective. During a recent conversation with Todd on his podcast, Olsson shared insights into how Instagram and online platforms have enabled her to spread knowledge about the rich history and philosophy of yoga. This conversation underscores her philosophy that yoga should not be limited to physical practice but should also include a comprehensive understanding of its philosophical context. This article dives into the key themes discussed in their enlightening conversation.

Yoga’s Evolving Identity: From Postures to Philosophy

Yoga’s journey from ancient traditions to modern studios is a testament to its adaptability and multifaceted nature. Many practitioners today focus on the physical aspects of yoga. However, as Olsson highlights, yoga is deeply rooted in rich philosophical and mythological traditions that are crucial for a holistic understanding.

Olsson explains her progression from practicing postural yoga to immersing herself in yoga philosophy. “I think for me, postural yoga was never separated from the study of philosophy because I was always so interested in those aspects of yoga,” Olsson states. Her journey included teaching French and English, and a stint working as a waitress in Paris, before diving into religious studies. Her unique background shows how varied experiences can come together to deepen one’s practice. Through her online school, Saraswati Studies, and educational platforms like Instagram, Olsson introduces these foundational concepts to a broader audience. This holistic approach not only enriches personal practice but also promotes a deeper respect for yoga’s origins.

The Power of Storytelling and Mythology in Yoga

Storytelling is more than just entertainment; it’s a profound way to understand ourselves and our world. Olsson uses storytelling as a gateway to philosophical concepts, noting, “People love storytelling… we consume storytelling through Netflix or the cinema… we love, as human storytelling.”

Utilizing myths from Indian culture, such as those of gods and goddesses, she illustrates how these stories aren’t distant relics of the past but are reflections of the human experience, always relevant and unfolding in today’s context. For instance, the goddess Dhumavati, associated with loss and disappointment, guides practitioners in embracing life’s inevitable challenges. Olsson’s insights reveal that these mythologies serve as tools for self-discovery rather than mere symbols of ancient culture. They encourage introspection, allowing us to find parallels in our own lives and inspiring us to embody the qualities reflected in these deities.

Unraveling Complex Philosophical Concepts: Samkhya and Tantra

Yoga philosophy isn’t just a framework for understanding practice; it’s a roadmap to personal and spiritual growth. Concepts like Samkhya and Tantra, while seemingly complex, hold valuable insights into the human condition and our spiritual evolution.

Olsson adeptly breaks down Sankhya philosophy, which enumerates levels of reality, or Tattvas. She explains, “According to Sankhya, we have 25 Tattvas, meaning what we can experience in human consciousness.” These concepts are foundational to understanding yoga’s ability to influence our consciousness and perception.

Contrasting Sankhya, Tantra’s non-dual approach views the divine as present within the self and the universe, emphasizing unity between consciousness and energy. Olsson articulates, “Within the tantric system, consciousness is full of creative capacity… our inner consciousness creates all the time.” This perspective enriches our understanding of interconnectedness, urging practitioners to embrace both the mystical and mundane in pursuit of self-realization. Through her teaching and storytelling, Olsson makes these philosophical systems accessible, encouraging practitioners to draw on this rich tapestry to enhance their practice.

In exploring these themes, Olsson invites a transformative approach to yoga, one that marries the physical, philosophical, and spiritual into a harmonious whole. The insights shared offer a glimpse into the profound depth of yoga’s philosophical traditions, and how they continue to influence contemporary practice. By engaging with these concepts, practitioners not only deepen their personal journey but also contribute to the respectful preservation and evolution of yoga’s rich heritage.

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