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Yoga Glossary of Terms

Terms Used in Yoga

  • Asana - A low physical impact posture practiced in yoga

  • Aum - Sanskrit word meaning "all" represents the omnipresence of Paramatma (the supreme spirit)

  • Chakra - A point of intersection of the main channels of energy flow in the body (Chakras regulate the functioning of the body and correspond to the major endocrine glands in the body.)

  • Guru - Teacher; spiritual preceptor

  • Hatha yoga - The path of yoga that starts with the practice of asanas

  • Karma yoga - The path of yoga that starts with emphasis on performing one's duty (action)

  • Kundalini - Latent energy lying dormant at the base of the spinal column

  • Kundalini yoga - The path of yoga that starts with meditation

  • Maharishi - A great sage

  • Mudra - A seal; a sealing posture

  • Nadi - A tubular organ of the subtle body through which the energy flows

  • Nauli - A process in which the abdominal muscles and organs are made to move in a surging motion

  • Patanjali - Name of the first writer of the yoga philosophy

  • Prana - Breath; life; vitality

  • Pranayama - The rhythmic regulation of breath

  • Raja yoga - The path of yoga that starts with psychic control of the mind

  • Rishi - An inspired sage

  • Sadhana - Quest

  • Surya - The sun

  • Yoga - Union (The aim of Yoga is to practice the means by which the human soul may be completely united with the supreme spirit.)

  • Yogi - One who follows the path of Yoga 



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