Sheetali Pranayama (Cooling Breath) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Practices & Techniques Glossary

I. What is Sheetali Pranayama? Sheetali Pranayama is a breathing technique in yoga that is known for its cooling and calming effects on the body and mind. The word “Sheetali” comes from the Sanskrit word “Sheetal,” which means cooling. This pranayama involves inhaling air through the mouth and exhaling through the nose, while rolling the … Read more

Dhauti (Cleansing of the Digestive Tract) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Practices & Techniques Glossary

What is Dhauti? Dhauti is a cleansing technique in yoga that involves the purification of the digestive system through various methods. It is one of the six purification techniques known as Shatkarma in yoga. Dhauti is believed to remove toxins from the body, improve digestion, and promote overall well-being. This ancient practice has been used … Read more

Matsyasana (Fish Pose) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Practices & Techniques Glossary

I. What is Matsyasana (Fish Pose)? Matsyasana, also known as Fish Pose, is a yoga asana that resembles a fish. It is a backbend pose that opens up the chest, throat, and abdomen. Matsyasana is derived from the Sanskrit words “matsya” meaning fish and “asana” meaning pose. This asana is often practiced towards the end … Read more

Maha Bandha (Great Lock) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Practices & Techniques Glossary

I. What is Maha Bandha (Great Lock)? Maha Bandha, also known as the Great Lock, is a powerful yogic technique that involves the simultaneous contraction of three key energy locks in the body. These locks are located at the base of the pelvis (Mula Bandha), the navel center (Uddiyana Bandha), and the throat (Jalandhara Bandha). … Read more

Tantra Yoga (Liberation Through Expansion) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Practices & Techniques Glossary

I. What is Tantra Yoga? Tantra Yoga is a spiritual practice that originated in ancient India and is often associated with the Hindu and Buddhist traditions. The word “tantra” comes from Sanskrit and means “weave” or “loom,” symbolizing the weaving together of various practices and teachings to create a holistic approach to spiritual growth and … Read more

Purusha (Spirit or Consciousness) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Practices & Techniques Glossary

What is Purusha? In the philosophy of yoga, Purusha is a concept that refers to the pure consciousness or the true self of an individual. It is often contrasted with Prakriti, which represents the material world and the physical body. Purusha is considered to be eternal, unchanging, and unaffected by the fluctuations of the external … Read more

Aparigraha (Non-Possessiveness) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Practices & Techniques Glossary

I. What is Aparigraha (Non-Possessiveness)? Aparigraha, one of the Yamas in Yoga philosophy, is the concept of non-possessiveness or non-greed. It encourages individuals to let go of attachments to material possessions, people, and outcomes. Aparigraha teaches us to live in the present moment and appreciate what we have without constantly seeking more. By practicing Aparigraha, … Read more

Laghoo Shankhaprakshalana (Intestinal and Colon Cleansing) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Practices & Techniques Glossary

I. What is Laghoo Shankhaprakshalana? Laghoo Shankhaprakshalana is a cleansing technique in yoga that involves the purification of the digestive system. It is also known as the short intestinal wash or the short cleansing practice. This practice is a part of the Shankhaprakshalana technique, which is a complete cleansing process for the entire digestive tract. … Read more

Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Practices & Techniques Glossary

I. What is Paschimottanasana? Paschimottanasana, also known as Seated Forward Bend Pose, is a popular yoga asana that involves stretching the entire back of the body. The name Paschimottanasana comes from the Sanskrit words “Paschima” meaning west or back of the body, “Uttana” meaning intense stretch, and “Asana” meaning pose. This asana is often practiced … Read more

Pancha Prana (Five Vital Energies) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Practices & Techniques Glossary

I. What are the Pancha Prana (Five Vital Energies)? The concept of Pancha Prana originates from ancient Indian philosophy and Ayurveda. Pancha Prana refers to the five vital energies or life forces that are believed to govern various physiological and psychological functions in the human body. These energies are responsible for maintaining balance and harmony … Read more