In the practice of yoga, Ganesha brings his courageous spirit to the mat when it’s necessary to evict stuck energy and forge the way to a clean slate and a clear mind. In this post, we’ll learn a little bit more about Ganesha symbolism and meaning. Honoring this awe-inspiring deity is the perfect way to conjure prosperity and clarity from the universe. 

Who Is Ganesha?

Ganesha is a widely revered Hindu god and son of Shiva, one of the most important gods in the Hindu pantheon, and Parvati, the goddess of fertility, love and devotion. Since he’s a direct descendent of the “God of Destruction,” Ganesha is said to remove any obstacles that present themselves along the truest, deepest paths of life. With his commanding elephant-shaped head and earthly, human body, he is known to stampede whatever stands in the way so that new beginnings and good fortune can unfold.

What Does Ganesha Symbolize?

In Hindu faith, Ganesha is seen as the god of beginnings, patron of arts and sciences and deva of intellect and wisdom. He’s often celebrated at the start of important ceremonies and rituals and empowers his followers to live life boldly. There are many barriers to existence, including self-doubt, fear and inauthenticity, and Ganesha symbolism teaches us to obliterate those obstacles to live in the light.

The sound of “Ohm,” familiar to all yogis as the unified chant we release at the start of a yoga practice, is said to be personified by Ganesha. He represents the notion of… everything. Ohm encompasses the beginning, the middle and the end of all.  It signifies the past, present and future. Thus, Ganesha symbolizes all existence, which is precisely why he’s ready and able to smash away anything that stands in its way.

Incorporate Ganesha Into Your Yoga Practice  

For those days when you land on your mat feeling stressed, stuck, powerless or overwhelmed, incorporating Ganesha into your practice is a remarkable way to dedicate it to the art of breaking through.

The Ganesha Mudra

The Ganesha mudra, a forceful lock of the hands, is one of the best ways to channel his intrepid spirit. It can lift your spirits, relieve tension and boost confidence, all in just a few minutes! It is the physical embodiment of perseverance and guaranteed to bring forth whatever energy shift is needed to clear your mental path. To learn more about how to achieve it, click here.

The Ganesha Mantra

Another way to incorporate Ganesha into your yoga practice is by chanting the Ganesha mantra. Find a quiet place to sit in an easy seated pose, adopt the Ganesha mudra, and repeat the following mantra to remove the cerebral clutter that might be standing in the way of your clarity and existence:

• Om Gam Ganapataye Namaha.

“Om Gam Ganapataye Namaha” means “salutations to Lord Ganesha, remover of obstacles.”

While you’re at it, you can wear the mantra in one of Inspired by Stephanie Rose’s many Om Gam Ganapataye Namah tops.

Weave Ganesha Into Your Daily Life 

The Inspired by Stephanie Rose collection honors Ganesha with a selection of spirited attire. We have an entire line dedicated to the Elephant God, designed to remove anything that stands in the way of your truest existence.

Whether you’re ready to rep him in a tank top, sweater, hat, some gold Ganesha earrings or a pair of eco-friendly leggings, we’ve got just the piece for you.