Anuyoga

Anuyoga is a term used within Vajrayana Buddhism, specifically within the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism, to refer to one of the three inner tantras. These inner tantras are classified based on the emphasis they place on different aspects of the path to enlightenment. The other two inner tantras are Mahayoga and Atiyoga (Dzogchen).

Anuyoga tantras emphasize the skillful means (upaya) aspect of the path, and focus on practices that involve visualization, mantra recitation, and engagement with mandalas. These practices are designed to transform impure perceptions and experiences into the wisdom and compassion of enlightenment. Anuyoga practices often involve working with subtle energies within the body.

In the Nyingma system, Anuyoga is seen as a bridge between the more elaborate practices of Mahayoga and the direct, non-dual approach of Atiyoga (Dzogchen). While Mahayoga emphasizes the creation and dissolution of mandalas, Anuyoga focuses on maintaining awareness of the pure nature of phenomena through various practices, leading to the spontaneous arising of wisdom. Anuyoga provides a structured path for realizing the inherent purity of mind.