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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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Yoga Glossary of Terms

Yoga FAQs »

What is yoga?

The word yoga is derived from the Sanskrit word meaning union. It is an ancient system of physical and psychic practice that originated during the Indus Valley civilization in South Asia. The first written records of this methodology appeared around 200 BC in Yogasutra of Patanjali. The system consists of the eightfold path, or Asthangayoga. A contemporary interpretation of yoga describes yoga as a systematic practice aimed at developing harmony in the body, mind, and environment.

How is yoga different from meditation?

Meditation (dhyana) is a part of total yoga practice. Yoga is composed of 8 basic principles.

  • Rules for living in society (Yama)
  • Self-restraining rules (Niyama)
  • Low physical impact postures (Asana)
  • Breathing techniques (Pranayama...

Read the Yoga FAQs article »



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