10 Examples Of Yoga Tattoos (Chakras, Mandalas, Sanskrit & More)

Perhaps you’re wondering why so many yogis have tattoos, as yoga tattoos have indeed become popular in the yoga community.

The reasons yogis choose to get tattoos are many. Some may just like what they do aesthetically for their bodies – after all, it’s a beautiful form of body art. Others use them as a way to express themselves to the world. 

Yogis use tattoos to connect deeply with themselves and their yoga practice. Others may paint certain yoga poses or symbols on their bodies that have a special meaning to them.

Read on to discover the top yoga tattoos that are trending now.


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Why yogis get tattoos

Tattoos remind yogis of their intention to achieve the highest level of awareness through yoga. They can also serve as a reminder of other life lessons to be learned.

If you’re toying with the idea of getting a yoga tattoo because practicing yoga has made such an impact on your life, take a look at the most popular yoga tattoos below for inspiration. 

This is by no means an exhaustive list of yoga tattoo ideas; it’s meant to inspire your own personal creation. 

10 yoga tattoos and their meanings

Tattoos not only reflect the essence of your practice but also serve as a constant reminder of your journey on and off the mat.

From intricate mandalas and chakras to meaningful Sanskrit mantras and serene lotus flowers, these tattoo ideas blend artistry with spirituality.

Whether you seek a subtle symbol or a bold statement, these yoga tattoos will inspire you to express your commitment to yoga through beautiful body art. Here are ten popular yoga tattoos you might like to consider getting yourself:

  1. Om symbol
  2. Mandala
  3. Hamsa hand
  4. Lotus flower
  5. Buddha
  6. Chakra symbols
  7. Moon phases
  8. Sanskrit symbols
  9. Unalome symbol
  10. Ganesha

1. Om symbol

The Om symbol symbolizes the sound that created the universe. It is said that all of creation began with that sound. Om can also mean unity with the highest, the perfect merge of the physical and spiritual. Being whole.

Om symbol tattoo on forearm.

2. Mandala

A mandala is a geometric combination of powerful symbols, typically placed in a circle. It is typically considered a symbol of balance, eternity, symmetry, and perfection. A mandala may also represent non-attachment or other values.

Mandala symbol arm sleeve tattoo.

3. Hamsa hand

Hamsa yoga tattoos represent the “Hand of God”. They date back to the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia and Phoenicia. They are believed to bring good fortune, happiness, luck, protection, and health. They may also represent ‘maternal love’ or ‘purity.’

Hamsa hand tattoo on upper arm.

4. Lotus flower

Lotus flowers can represent so many different things, and that’s why, although common, they are so unique and personal. 

In different cultures, lotus flowers have different meanings. In general, they represent spirituality, personal transformation, and self-regeneration. In Hinduism, lotus flowers represent beauty, purity, and spiritual awakening. In Buddhism, the lotus symbolizes the path from ignorance to enlightenment.

Lotus flower tattoo on the back of calf.

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5. Buddha

A tattoo of Buddha signifies mindfulness, inner peace, serenity, and/or purity of life. Buddha is a symbol of love and compassion for all sentient beings. It represents the value of compassion for all mankind.

Buddha tattoo on forearm.

6. Chakra symbols

A common and beautiful example is the tattoo of the seven chakras. Some people claim that tattoos can alter the energy flow in your body and affect your chakras.

Chakra system tattoo on the back of a woman.

7. Moon phases

The moon phase tattoo stands for magic, purity, dreams, mystery, and shadows. Since the Moon is always changing, many people resonate with it. The moon may also be a symbol of feminine energy.

Moon phases tattoo on the upper back of a woman.

8. Sanskrit symbols

Sanskrit is the original language that ancient Hindu texts, and the Vedas are written. It is known as the mother of many other languages. It is commonly used as a tattoo to write a powerful word, or mantra, for example, a word that triggers a certain emotion.

Sanskrit tattoo on man's inner forearm.

9. Unalome symbol

In short, the Unalome symbol’s spiritual meaning is the path to freedom and enlightenment. The path to getting out of your miseries. It symbolizes that life's journey is never linear but full of twists and turns, thus reminding us of how it will be for all of us as well on our path to enlightenment.

Unalome symbol tattoo on woman's wrist.

10. Ganesha

Ganesh is often represented with an elephant head and a human body. It is a powerful symbol of strength, success, and wisdom. The large head stands for impeccable intellectual faculties. The wide mouth stands for the natural human desire to enjoy this short life. 

Ganesha tattoo on a woman's shoulder.

If you are a yogi looking for a way to deepen and connect with yourself and your practice, yoga tattoos might be the way to go. Just make sure it’s something you feel will resonate with you for long into the future.

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Tatjana
Tatjana

Tatjana is a Certified Yoga Teacher, content writer, and trainer in mindfulness, emotional intelligence, learning, and self-development. She is especially interested in how yoga can help with mental health challenges, such as anxiety, stress, depression, excessive worrying, overthinking, and other ailments of the modern man. In her free time, she is either doing her sudoku, cuddling with her dog, or out somewhere dancing. Tatjana can be reached at tatjanag@theyogatique.com, or you can connect with her on LinkedIn.

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