Yoga Lifestyle & Ethics Glossary

I. What is Balanced Living? Balanced living is a concept that involves maintaining a harmonious equilibrium in all aspects of one’s life. This includes physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. It is about making conscious choices that promote health and happiness while also taking into consideration the needs of others and the environment. Balanced living … Read more

What is Surrender in Yoga Philosophy? Surrender, or Ishvara Pranidhana, is a key concept in yoga philosophy that involves letting go of the ego and surrendering to a higher power. In yoga, this higher power is often referred to as Ishvara, which can be interpreted as a divine being or universal consciousness. Surrendering in yoga … Read more

I. What is Dhyana? Dhyana, often translated as meditation, is a practice that has been a central component of various spiritual traditions for thousands of years. Originating from ancient Indian philosophy, Dhyana is a state of focused attention and heightened awareness that allows individuals to connect with their inner selves and the divine. In Dhyana, … Read more

I. What is the role of ethics in yoga teaching? Ethics play a crucial role in the practice of yoga teaching. Yoga is not just about physical postures and breathing exercises; it is a holistic practice that encompasses moral and ethical principles. As yoga educators, it is important to understand and embody these ethical principles … Read more

I. What is Contentment (Santosha) in Yoga Philosophy? Contentment, known as Santosha in yoga philosophy, is the practice of finding satisfaction and peace within oneself regardless of external circumstances. It is the ability to be happy and at peace with what one has, rather than constantly seeking more or comparing oneself to others. Santosha is … Read more

I. What is Karma in the Context of Yoga Philosophy? Karma is a concept deeply rooted in the philosophy of yoga. In Sanskrit, karma translates to “action” or “deed,” and it refers to the idea that every action we take has a consequence, whether positive or negative. According to yoga philosophy, our actions create a … Read more

I. What is Shaucha in Yoga Philosophy? Shaucha is a concept in yoga philosophy that translates to cleanliness or purity. It is one of the Niyamas, which are ethical guidelines for personal behavior outlined in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. Shaucha is the practice of purifying the body, mind, and spirit in order to achieve … Read more

I. What is Ahara (Conscious Eating)? Ahara, also known as conscious eating, is a concept rooted in the ancient practice of Yoga. It involves being mindful and aware of what we eat, how we eat, and why we eat. Ahara goes beyond simply consuming food for sustenance; it is about developing a deeper connection with … Read more

I. What is Aparigraha in the context of Yoga philosophy? Aparigraha is one of the five Yamas, or ethical guidelines, outlined in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. It is often translated as non-possessiveness or non-attachment. Aparigraha teaches us to let go of our attachments to material possessions, relationships, and even our own ego. By practicing … Read more

I. What is Svadhyaya? Svadhyaya is one of the five Niyamas, or personal observances, in the Eight Limbs of Yoga as outlined by the sage Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras. The term Svadhyaya is derived from two Sanskrit words: “sva,” meaning self, and “adhyaya,” meaning study or inquiry. Therefore, Svadhyaya can be translated as self-study … Read more