I. What is Trataka (Steady Gazing)? Trataka, also known as steady gazing, is a yogic practice that involves focusing the eyes on a single point or object. The word “trataka” comes from the Sanskrit word “trai,” which means “to protect” or “to look after,” and “taka,” which means “to gaze” or “to look.” This ancient … Read more
I. What are Shatkarma (Six Purification Methods)? Shatkarma, also known as the six purification methods, are ancient yogic practices that aim to cleanse the body and mind. These practices are believed to remove toxins from the body, improve digestion, and promote overall well-being. The six purification methods are Neti (nasal cleansing), Dhauti (cleansing of the … Read more
I. What is Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half Lord of the Fishes Pose)? Ardha Matsyendrasana, also known as Half Lord of the Fishes Pose, is a seated twisting yoga pose that provides a deep stretch for the spine, shoulders, and hips. This pose is named after the legendary yogi Matsyendra, who is said to have been the … Read more
I. What is Karma Yoga? Karma Yoga is one of the four main paths of yoga, along with Bhakti Yoga, Jnana Yoga, and Raja Yoga. The word “karma” means action or deed, and Karma Yoga is the path of selfless service and action. In Karma Yoga, the focus is on performing actions without attachment to … Read more
I. What is Garudasana (Eagle Pose)? Garudasana, also known as Eagle Pose, is a popular yoga asana that requires balance, strength, and flexibility. In this pose, the practitioner wraps one leg around the other while crossing the arms in front of the body, resembling an eagle’s wings. Garudasana is named after the mythical bird Garuda, … Read more
I. What is Pratyahara? Pratyahara is the fifth limb of yoga, following Yama, Niyama, Asana, and Pranayama. The word “Pratyahara” is derived from Sanskrit, with “prati” meaning “against” or “away” and “ahara” meaning “food” or “nourishment.” In the context of yoga, Pratyahara refers to the withdrawal of the senses from external stimuli. It is the … Read more
I. What is Brahmari Pranayama? Brahmari Pranayama, also known as the Humming Bee Breath, is a breathing technique that involves making a humming sound while exhaling. The word “Brahmari” is derived from the Sanskrit word “Brahma,” which means the creator or the divine consciousness, and “ari,” which means enemy. This pranayama is said to have … Read more
I. What is Surya Bhedana (Right Nostril Breathing)? Surya Bhedana, also known as Right Nostril Breathing, is a pranayama technique in yoga that involves breathing through the right nostril while closing off the left nostril. In Sanskrit, “Surya” means sun, and “Bhedana” means piercing or passing through. This practice is believed to activate the pingala … Read more
I. What is Chandra Namaskar (Moon Salutation)? Chandra Namaskar, also known as the Moon Salutation, is a yoga sequence that is designed to honor and connect with the energy of the moon. Just like the more commonly practiced Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation), Chandra Namaskar is a series of yoga poses that flow together in a … Read more
I. What is Gomukhasana (Cow Face Pose)? Gomukhasana, also known as Cow Face Pose, is a seated yoga posture that stretches the hips, thighs, shoulders, and chest. The name “Cow Face Pose” comes from the resemblance of the legs to a cow’s face when the knees are stacked on top of each other. This asana … Read more
