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Yoga Glossaries
Some Recent Yoga Glossary Articles
Malasana (Garland Pose) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Asanas (Yoga Poses) Glossary
I. What is Malasana (Garland Pose)? Malasana, also known as Garland Pose, is a yoga asana that involves squatting down with the feet close together while keeping the heels on the ground. The pose resembles the position of sitting on a low stool or chair. Malasana is a Sanskrit word that translates to “garland,” which … Read more
Supta Trivikramasana (Sleeping Vishnu Pose) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Asanas (Yoga Poses) Glossary
I. What is Supta Trivikramasana (Sleeping Vishnu Pose)? Supta Trivikramasana, also known as the Sleeping Vishnu Pose, is a yoga asana that involves lying on the back with one leg extended straight and the other leg bent at the knee and pulled towards the chest. This pose is named after Lord Vishnu, one of the … Read more
Mayurasana (Peacock Pose) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Practices & Techniques Glossary
What is Mayurasana (Peacock Pose)? Mayurasana, also known as Peacock Pose, is a challenging yoga asana that requires strength, balance, and focus. In this pose, the body is balanced on the hands with the legs lifted off the ground. The arms are bent at the elbows, with the hands placed firmly on the mat. The … Read more
Somatic Yoga – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Styles Glossary
What is Somatic Yoga? Somatic yoga is a unique approach to yoga that focuses on the mind-body connection and emphasizes the importance of internal awareness and sensory perception. Unlike traditional yoga practices that focus on external alignment and physical postures, somatic yoga encourages practitioners to explore their bodies from the inside out, paying attention to … Read more
Yoga Nidra (Yogic Sleep) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Meditation & Mindfulness Glossary
What is Yoga Nidra? Yoga Nidra, also known as yogic sleep, is a powerful meditation technique that allows the practitioner to enter a state of deep relaxation while remaining conscious. The practice of Yoga Nidra involves lying down in a comfortable position and following the guidance of a teacher or recorded audio to systematically relax … Read more
Mudras for Balancing Doshas (Energetic Seals) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Ayurveda & Yoga Glossary
I. What are Mudras? Mudras are hand gestures or symbolic gestures used in Hindu and Buddhist traditions. These gestures are believed to have spiritual and healing properties. The word “mudra” comes from Sanskrit and means “seal” or “closure.” Mudras are often used in meditation, yoga, and Ayurveda to help channel energy flow and enhance physical, … Read more
Shamatha (Calm Abiding) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Meditation & Mindfulness Glossary
I. What is Shamatha (Calm Abiding)? Shamatha, also known as Calm Abiding, is a form of meditation that focuses on developing a calm and clear mind. It is a foundational practice in many Buddhist traditions, including Tibetan Buddhism. The goal of Shamatha meditation is to cultivate a state of mental stability and clarity, free from … Read more
Avidya (Ignorance) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Philosophy Glossary
I. What is Avidya (Ignorance)? Avidya, often translated as ignorance, is a concept in yoga philosophy that refers to a lack of knowledge or understanding of the true nature of reality. It is considered one of the fundamental obstacles to spiritual growth and enlightenment. Avidya is seen as a veil that clouds our perception and … Read more
Shruti (Heard Texts, Including Vedas and Upanishads) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Lifestyle & Ethics Glossary
I. What are the Vedas and Upanishads? The Vedas and Upanishads are ancient texts that form the foundation of Hindu philosophy and spirituality. The Vedas are a collection of hymns, prayers, rituals, and philosophical teachings that were composed in Sanskrit over 3,000 years ago. There are four Vedas – Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda, and Atharvaveda – … Read more
Rajas (Activity) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Philosophy Glossary
I. What is Rajas in Yoga Philosophy? In Yoga philosophy, Rajas is one of the three Gunas, or qualities of nature, that are said to influence all aspects of our existence. Rajas is characterized by activity, movement, and passion. It is associated with the energy of change and transformation. When Rajas is in balance, it … Read more