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Yoga Glossaries
Some Recent Yoga Glossary Articles
Six Yogas of Naropa – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Meditation & Mindfulness Glossary
I. What are the Six Yogas of Naropa? The Six Yogas of Naropa are a series of advanced tantric practices within the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. These practices are said to have been taught by the Indian Buddhist master Naropa to his disciple Marpa Lotsawa, who then passed them on to the great Tibetan yogi Milarepa. … Read more
Bhakti (Devotion) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Philosophy Glossary
I. What is Bhakti (Devotion)? Bhakti, often translated as devotion, is a key concept in Hindu philosophy and spirituality. It is the practice of loving devotion to a personal god or goddess, often expressed through prayer, ritual, and worship. Bhakti is considered one of the paths to spiritual realization, alongside karma (action) and jnana (knowledge). … Read more
Yamas (Restraints) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Lifestyle & Ethics Glossary
I. What are Yamas? Yamas are ethical guidelines in the practice of yoga that help individuals cultivate a sense of moral and ethical behavior. These guidelines are meant to be followed both on and off the mat, helping practitioners live a more mindful and conscious life. There are five Yamas in total, each focusing on … Read more
Gaja Karani (Elephant’s Trunk Breath) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Pranayama (Breathing Techniques) Glossary
I. What is Gaja Karani (Elephant’s Trunk Breath)? Gaja Karani, also known as Elephant’s Trunk Breath, is a pranayama technique that involves deep breathing through one nostril at a time. In Sanskrit, “Gaja” means elephant and “Karani” means to do or to make. This breathing exercise is named after the trunk of an elephant, which … Read more
Kakasana (Crow Pose) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Asanas (Yoga Poses) Glossary
I. What is Kakasana (Crow Pose)? Kakasana, also known as Crow Pose, is a popular arm balance pose in yoga that requires strength, balance, and focus. In this pose, the practitioner balances their body on their hands with their knees resting on the backs of their upper arms. The name “Crow Pose” comes from the … Read more
Janu Sirsasana (Head-to-Knee Forward Bend) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Asanas (Yoga Poses) Glossary
I. What is Janu Sirsasana (Head-to-Knee Forward Bend)? Janu Sirsasana, also known as Head-to-Knee Forward Bend, is a seated yoga pose that involves stretching the entire back of the body, from the hamstrings to the spine. The name of the pose comes from the Sanskrit words “janu,” which means knee, “sirsa,” which means head, and … Read more
Kama (Desire) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Philosophy Glossary
I. What is Kama (Desire)? Kama, in Hindu philosophy, is often translated as desire, longing, or pleasure. It is one of the four goals of human life, known as the Purusharthas, which also include Dharma (duty), Artha (prosperity), and Moksha (liberation). Kama represents the pursuit of sensory pleasures and emotional fulfillment. It is seen as … Read more
Tantric Meditation – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Meditation & Mindfulness Glossary
I. What is Tantric Meditation? Tantric meditation is a form of meditation that originated in ancient India as part of the Tantric tradition. It is a practice that combines meditation, mantra chanting, visualization, and breathwork to help individuals connect with their inner selves and the divine energy around them. Tantric meditation is often associated with … Read more
Yoga Chitta Vritti Nirodha (Yoga is the cessation of mind fluctuations) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Meditation & Mindfulness Glossary
I. What is Yoga Chitta Vritti Nirodha? Yoga Chitta Vritti Nirodha is a concept from the ancient Indian philosophy of Yoga, as outlined in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. It is often translated as “Yoga is the cessation of the fluctuations of the mind.” This concept is central to the practice of Yoga and meditation, … Read more
Yoga Stretching Wheel – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Yoga Equipment & Props Glossary
What is a Yoga Stretching Wheel? A yoga stretching wheel, also known as a yoga wheel or a back roller, is a circular-shaped prop that is used to help deepen stretches, improve flexibility, and enhance yoga poses. It is typically made of a sturdy plastic or wood material with a cushioned exterior to provide comfort … Read more