Episode 173: Reclaiming Tantra: Decolonizing Yoga & Spiritual Practices

Yogacharini Maitreyi explores nuances around the importance of reclaiming Tantra - India’s science of liberation. Maitreyi also shares some personal stories about how she has applied Tantric principles in her own life.

Yogacharini Maitreyi was born in India which was colonized by the British during her grandfather’s time. For over 200 years Yoga, Ayurveda, Indian martial arts, and other arts were banned by colonial rule just like bagpipes were banned in Scotland after the uprising of 1745 and drumming was banned amongst African slaves. The school she runs, Arkaya Foundation, is dedicated to reviving the deeper dimensions of these arts and sciences which have been watered down by mainstream appropriation. Maitreyi has been sharing the depth of Yoga and Tantra for over 26 years. When she settled in Vancouver over 6 years ago she connected with the First Nations community and elders to create more awareness about their Indigenous lifestyle, values and healing.