Why Your Energy Changes: Understanding the Three Gunas

Why do some days feel calm and clear while others feel anxious, restless, or completely unmotivated?

According to yoga philosophy, these shifting experiences aren't random—they're expressions of the three gunas, the fundamental qualities of nature described in the ancient Samkhya tradition.

In this episode, Lauren explores one of yoga's most practical philosophical frameworks and explains how the gunas can help us better understand our energy, emotions, motivation, and patterns without judgment.

Rather than seeing ourselves as "lazy," "anxious," or "unproductive," the gunas invite us to view our inner experience as changing weather patterns that can be observed with awareness and responded to skillfully.

You'll learn how cultivating awareness—not perfection—can transform the way you relate to yourself.

What You'll Learn

What the three gunas are

The origins of the gunas in Samkhya philosophy

The relationship between Purusha and Prakriti

How sattva, rajas, and tamas influence everyday life

Why none of the gunas are "good" or "bad"

Practical ways to balance excess rajas and tamas