Defining a vortex, one axial one angular enumeration (counting), from the origin (center) of the vortex outward.
The segments between the numbered vertices of the vortex can lengthen incrementally or be the same through four phases of one rotation (pi / 2). The length of each segment determines the rate of expansion and area occupied by each phase in the vortex.
We could divide one rotation into as many phases or radians as necessary. For human mental capacity, the phases are limited to four.
After defining the rate of vortecial growth (segment length), the number of phases can be increased to fully express a smooth vortex (vortecial shape).
Science tells us the universe and particle spins are preferentially left-handed, hence the choice of counter-clockwise vortecial definition. For defining a vortex, the method works both ways.
..a Buddhist vortex.
A pyramid is a four-phase vortex who's origin is the apex block.