I. What are Bandhas? Bandhas are energetic locks or seals used in yoga practice to control the flow of energy within the body. The word “bandha” comes from the Sanskrit root “bandh,” which means to bind, lock, or hold. By engaging these locks, practitioners can harness and direct the flow of prana (life force energy) … Read more
I. What is Dandasana (Staff Pose)? Dandasana, also known as Staff Pose, is a foundational seated yoga posture that helps to improve posture, strengthen the back muscles, and increase flexibility in the hamstrings and hips. The Sanskrit word “Danda” means staff or stick, and “asana” means pose. In this pose, the body is straight and … Read more
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
