Radiance Yoga Glossary

Whether you're new to yoga or deepening your practice, you've probably come across some words that sound unfamiliar or intriguing. This glossary is here to help! We’ve gathered a collection of common yoga terms, phrases, and concepts you might encounter in your classes or hear in conversation. Think of it as your go-to guide for understanding the language of yoga. So, whether you're curious about the meaning of "Namaste," wondering what a "Chakra" is, or just want to feel more connected to the practice, we hope this glossary makes your yoga journey a little smoother and a lot more enjoyable.

If you're eager to advance your practice further, be sure to check out our Trainings and Workshops pages for opportunities to dive even deeper into the world of yoga.

Asana

Definition: A physical posture or pose in yoga. Traditionally, "asana" means "seat," referring to the seated position used for meditation, but it now encompasses all physical postures in yoga.

Bandha

Definition: A body lock or seal used in yoga to control the flow of energy (prana). The three main bandhas are Mula Bandha (root lock), Uddiyana Bandha (abdominal lock), and Jalandhara Bandha (throat lock).

Chakra

Definition: Energy centers in the body, often depicted as spinning wheels or discs. There are seven main chakras, each corresponding to different aspects of physical, emotional, and spiritual health.

Chaturanga (Chaturanga Dandasana)

Definition: A foundational yoga pose also known as the Four-Limbed Staff Pose. It is a challenging transition pose that builds strength in the arms, shoulders, and core, often used in Sun Salutations.

Drishti

Definition: A focused gaze or point of concentration used during asanas or meditation. Drishti helps cultivate mindfulness and concentration.

Koshas

Definition: The five layers or sheaths of the human body according to yogic philosophy. These include the physical body (Annamaya Kosha), energy body (Pranamaya Kosha), mental body (Manomaya Kosha), wisdom body (Vijnanamaya Kosha), and bliss body (Anandamaya Kosha).

Mantra

Definition: A word, sound, or phrase repeated during meditation or chanting to focus the mind and evoke spiritual energy. "Om" is one of the most well-known mantras.

Mudra

Definition: A symbolic hand gesture or seal used in yoga and meditation to channel energy flow within the body. Each mudra has a specific meaning and purpose.

Namaskar

Definition: Another term for Sun Salutation (Surya Namaskar) or a respectful greeting similar to Namaste, often used in the context of worship or honoring someone.

Namaste

Definition: A common greeting in yoga, often accompanied by a slight bow with hands pressed together in front of the chest. It translates to "I bow to you," symbolizing respect and acknowledgment of the divine within each person.

Nadi

Definition: Channels through which prana flows in the body. There are said to be thousands of nadis, with the three most important being the Ida, Pingala, and Sushumna.

Niyamas

Definition: The second limb of Patanjali's Eightfold Path in yoga, consisting of ethical observances or personal practices. The five niyamas are Saucha (purity), Santosha (contentment), Tapas (self-discipline), Svadhyaya (self-study), and Ishvara Pranidhana (surrender to a higher power).

Om

Definition: A sacred sound and spiritual symbol in Hinduism, Buddhism, and other Dharmic traditions. Om represents the universal sound, the vibration of the universe, and is often chanted at the beginning and end of yoga sessions.

Pranayama

Definition: The practice of breath control in yoga. "Prana" means life force or vital energy, and "yama" means control. Pranayama involves techniques to regulate the breath, promoting physical and mental well-being.

Sanskrit

Definition: The ancient language of India, in which many classical yoga texts are written. Sanskrit is also the language used for naming most yoga poses and concepts.

Sat Nam

Definition: A mantra in Kundalini Yoga meaning "Truth is my identity" or "I am truth." It is used to align oneself with the true self and the universal truth.

Savasana

Definition: Also known as "Corpse Pose," Savasana is typically the final pose in a yoga practice, where students lie flat on their back, allowing the body and mind to rest and integrate the effects of the practice.

Shanti

Definition: The Sanskrit word for "peace." It is often chanted three times in succession (Shanti, Shanti, Shanti) to bring peace to the body, mind, and spirit.

Sun Salutation (Surya Namaskar)

Definition: A sequence of yoga postures that flow together to create a graceful, warming series often used as a warm-up at the beginning of a yoga practice. It is traditionally performed in the morning to greet the sun and energize the body.

Ujjayi Breath

Definition: A breathing technique often used in yoga, where the breath is drawn in and out through the nose with a slight constriction at the back of the throat, creating an oceanic sound. This breath helps focus the mind and regulate energy.