Yoga Practices & Techniques Glossary

I. What is Anuloma Viloma (Alternate Nostril Breathing)? Anuloma Viloma, also known as Nadi Shodhana or Alternate Nostril Breathing, is a breathing technique used in yoga and pranayama practices. The word “Anuloma” means “with the natural order” and “Viloma” means “against the natural order.” This breathing technique involves inhaling and exhaling through alternate nostrils, which … Read more

I. What is Brahmacharya? Brahmacharya is a concept in yoga that refers to the practice of celibacy, chastity, or moderation in sexual activities. The word “Brahmacharya” is derived from two Sanskrit words: “Brahma,” which means the supreme reality or universal consciousness, and “charya,” which means to follow or pursue. Therefore, Brahmacharya can be understood as … Read more

I. What is Ustrasana (Camel Pose)? Ustrasana, also known as Camel Pose, is a yoga asana that is practiced to open up the heart center and stretch the front of the body. The name “Ustrasana” comes from the Sanskrit words “ustra” meaning camel and “asana” meaning pose. This pose is often included in many yoga … Read more

I. What is Balasana (Child’s Pose)? Balasana, also known as Child’s Pose, is a popular yoga asana that is often practiced as a resting pose during a yoga session. The name “Balasana” comes from the Sanskrit words “bala” which means child and “asana” which means pose. This pose resembles the fetal position, providing a sense … Read more

I. What is Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog)? Adho Mukha Svanasana, also known as Downward-Facing Dog, is a popular yoga pose that is often practiced as part of a flow sequence or as a standalone posture. In Sanskrit, “Adho” means downward, “Mukha” means face, and “Svanasana” means dog pose. This pose resembles the stretch that … Read more

I. What is Tapas (Austerity) in Yoga? Tapas, often translated as “austerity” or “discipline,” is one of the Niyamas, or ethical guidelines, outlined in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. It is a practice of self-discipline, self-control, and self-denial. Tapas involves making conscious choices to cultivate inner strength and willpower by overcoming physical, mental, and emotional … Read more

I. What is Apana Mudra? Apana Mudra is a hand gesture that is believed to help balance the energy in the body and promote overall well-being. In Sanskrit, “Apana” means downward-moving energy, and “Mudra” means gesture or seal. This mudra is said to help regulate the flow of energy in the body, specifically the Apana … Read more

What is Mayurasana (Peacock Pose)? Mayurasana, also known as Peacock Pose, is a challenging yoga asana that requires strength, balance, and focus. In this pose, the body is balanced on the hands with the legs lifted off the ground. The arms are bent at the elbows, with the hands placed firmly on the mat. The … Read more

I. What is Jnana Yoga? Jnana Yoga is one of the four main paths of yoga, along with Bhakti Yoga, Karma Yoga, and Raja Yoga. It is often referred to as the path of knowledge or wisdom. Jnana Yoga is a spiritual practice that focuses on self-realization through the pursuit of knowledge and understanding of … Read more

I. What is Halasana (Plow Pose)? Halasana, also known as Plow Pose, is a yoga asana that resembles a plow, hence its name. This pose involves lying on your back and lifting your legs over your head until your toes touch the ground behind you. Halasana is considered an intermediate to advanced yoga pose that … Read more