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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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