Welcome to our glossary of yoga and pranayama! In this section. You’ll find brief explanations of some of the most common practices and concepts related to the ancient tradition of yoga and the art of breathing, or pranayama.

From Ujjayi to Suryabheda, Anuloma to Viloma, and more, our glossary covers a wide range of techniques. All of this can be used to enhance your physical and mental well-being and reduce stress and anxiety. Also, it can help improve your focus and concentration. Each entry includes a concise definition, along with instructions on how to practice the technique.

I wanted to ensure I provided concise definitions of some of the most commonly used Sanskrit words in yoga and pranayama, along with their English translations and pronunciations. This part was truly difficult when I did my 200-hour yoga teacher training. I am hopeful I can provide you with a resource to better understand! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced practitioner, this glossary can help you deepen your understanding and appreciation of the practice.

From asana (poses) to prana (life force), samadhi (enlightenment) to sattva (purity), and beyond, our glossary covers a wide range of concepts and terms that are essential to the practice of yoga and pranayama. We hope you find it useful as you explore the rich history and diverse practices of this ancient tradition.

Where does Sanskrit originate from?

Sanskrit is an ancient Indo-European language that originated on the Indian subcontinent. It is one of the oldest recorded languages in the world, with a history spanning over 3,500 years. The word “Sanskrit” itself means “refined” or “perfected,” and the language is considered sacred in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.

Sanskrit has been the primary language of Hindu texts, including the Vedas, Upanishads, and Bhagavad Gita. As well as many other important religious, philosophical, and literary works. It has also been used for scientific and mathematical texts, as well as poetry and drama.

In the modern world, Sanskrit continues to be studied and appreciated for its historical and cultural significance. Not to mention, its potential for use in fields such as yoga, meditation, and ayurvedic medicine. Many yoga and meditation practices use Sanskrit terms to describe poses, techniques, and philosophical concepts.

While Sanskrit is not commonly spoken in everyday conversation. It remains a living language in the sense that it is still used for religious and spiritual purposes, as well as in academic and literary contexts.

This resource will always be updated with new concepts and terms!