Hatha Yoga (Forceful Yoga) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Practices & Techniques Glossary

I. What is Hatha Yoga? Hatha Yoga is a traditional form of yoga that focuses on physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. The word “Hatha” comes from the Sanskrit words “ha” meaning sun and “tha” meaning moon, symbolizing the balance of opposites. In Hatha Yoga, the goal is to achieve a balance between the body … Read more

Japa (Mantra Repetition) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Practices & Techniques Glossary

I. What is Japa (Mantra Repetition)? Japa, also known as mantra repetition, is a spiritual practice that involves the repetition of a specific mantra or sacred sound. This practice is commonly used in various spiritual traditions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. The word “japa” is derived from the Sanskrit root “jap,” which means “to utter … Read more

Vipassana (Insight Meditation) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Practices & Techniques Glossary

I. What is Vipassana (Insight Meditation)? Vipassana, also known as Insight Meditation, is a traditional Buddhist meditation practice that focuses on developing mindfulness and insight into the nature of reality. The word “Vipassana” comes from the Pali language, where “vi” means “clearly” and “passana” means “seeing.” This practice involves observing the present moment with a … Read more

Ida, Pingala, and Sushumna (Principal Nadis) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Practices & Techniques Glossary

What are Nadis in Yoga? In the practice of yoga, Nadis are energy channels that run throughout the body, similar to the concept of meridians in traditional Chinese medicine. According to ancient yogic texts, there are said to be 72,000 Nadis in the human body, with three main Nadis being the most important: Ida, Pingala, … Read more

Vajrasana (Diamond Pose) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Practices & Techniques Glossary

I. What is Vajrasana (Diamond Pose)? Vajrasana, also known as the Diamond Pose, is a seated yoga posture that is commonly practiced for meditation and pranayama (breath control) exercises. The word “Vajrasana” is derived from two Sanskrit words: “vajra,” which means thunderbolt or diamond, and “asana,” which means posture. This asana is believed to be … Read more

Asteya (Non-Stealing) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Practices & Techniques Glossary

I. What is Asteya (Non-Stealing)? Asteya, one of the five Yamas in yoga philosophy, is the principle of non-stealing. It goes beyond the literal act of taking something that does not belong to you and encompasses a broader concept of not coveting or desiring what others have. Asteya teaches us to be content with what … Read more

Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Practices & Techniques Glossary

I. What is Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation)? Surya Namaskar, also known as Sun Salutation, is a popular yoga sequence that consists of a series of 12 asanas or poses. It is a dynamic practice that is performed in a flowing sequence, with each pose flowing seamlessly into the next. Surya Namaskar is traditionally practiced in … Read more

Tadasana (Mountain Pose) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Practices & Techniques Glossary

I. What is Tadasana (Mountain Pose)? Tadasana, also known as Mountain Pose, is a foundational yoga pose that serves as the starting point for many standing poses. In Sanskrit, “tada” means mountain, and “asana” means pose. This pose is all about grounding and finding stability, just like a mountain standing tall and strong. Tadasana may … Read more

Agni Sara (Fire Essence) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Practices & Techniques Glossary

I. What is Agni Sara? Agni Sara is a traditional yogic practice that focuses on strengthening the digestive system and increasing the body’s internal fire, or agni. The word “agni” in Sanskrit means fire, and “sara” means essence. Therefore, Agni Sara can be translated as “essence of fire.” This practice involves a series of exercises … Read more

Prithvi Mudra (Earth Gesture) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Practices & Techniques Glossary

I. What is Prithvi Mudra? Prithvi Mudra, also known as the Earth Mudra, is a hand gesture used in yoga and meditation practices to promote grounding, stability, and connection to the earth element. In Sanskrit, “Prithvi” means earth, and “Mudra” means gesture or seal. By performing Prithvi Mudra, one can harness the energy of the … Read more