Yoga Glossary
The right words to learn

Bandha – Specific muscular or energetic locks that are used to direct and control the flow of energy in the body during yoga practice. The three main bandhas are:
1. Mula Bandha : This refers to the locking of the pelvic region, particularly the pelvic floor. It involves contracting the muscles around the perineum.
2. Uddiyana Bandha : This bandha consists of locking the upper abdominal wall. It involves retracting and lifting the abdominal wall towards the spine.
3. Jalandhara Bandha : This lock is done at the level of the throat by slightly tilting the head forward and drawing the chin towards the chest.
The bandhas are used to channel energy (prana) within the body, improve stability, concentration, and meditation, and promote breath control (pranayama). They are often used in conjunction with yoga postures (asanas) to deepen the practice and develop better body awareness.

Beauté – For me, outer beauty is a reflection of deep inner harmony, cultivated through yoga practice and meditation. It values physical health through nourishing and respectful body care, including a balanced diet and conscious lifestyle habits. Inner beauty is cultivated through compassion, gratitude, and heightened awareness, strengthening self-esteem and spiritual connection. This balance contributes to authentic beauty, radiating through an aura of inner peace and well-being.

Chakra – translates to “wheel”. Word in Sanskrit from Hinduism. The chakras designate energy centers linked to one of the seven colors of the rainbow and vibrating to the sound of the seven musical notes. They are located along the spine and form the link between Earth and Sky. They are represented by circles, rotating clockwise and are activated with breathing. In theory, if they are blocked, they can be treated using vibrational therapy. The Root Chakra (Muladhara) – The root chakra is red in color, do Note. Lam Sound. it is located at the level of the pelvis. It symbolizes: birth, fertility, physical survival. The sacral chakra (Swadhistana) – The sacral chakra is orange in color, re Note. Vam Sound. It is located a little below the navel. It symbolizes: the vital force, sexuality, the desire to move forward. The solar plexus chakra (Manipura) – The solar plexus chakra is yellow in color, Mi Note. Ram Sound. It is located at the level of the solar plexus. It is the seat of emotions, particularly fear and anger. It symbolizes self-affirmation, power, ego, negative emotions such as anger, hatred and aggression. The Heart Chakra (Anahata) – The heart chakra is green in color, Fa Note. Yam Sound. It is located at chest level. It symbolizes love of oneself and others, peace, trust, empathy. The Throat Chakra (Vishuda) – The throat chakra is blue in color, Sol Note. Kam Sound. it is located in the hollow of the throat. It symbolizes communication, creativity, expression, judgment and leadership. The 3rd eye chakra (Ajna) – The 3rd eye chakra is indigo in color, La Note. Om Sound. It is located between the two eyebrows. It symbolizes self-knowledge, intuition, inspiration, awakening and meditation. The crown chakra (Sahasrara) – The crown chakra is purple. Si Note. No Sound. It is located on the top of the head. It symbolizes spirituality, wisdom, purity, consciousness of the soul. The best way to open your chakras is to practice breathing exercises, meditation or yoga to circulate the energies in your body.

Chaturanga – A Sanskrit term that refers to a posture frequently used in the vinyasa sequence of yoga. It is often called “Chaturanga Dandasana”, which literally means “Falling Plank Pose”.

Dandasana – Stick pose in yoga. Dandasana is a seated pose where you sit on the floor with your legs extended in front of you, feet straight, and hands placed on either side of your hips. The back should be straight, shoulders relaxed and chest open. It is a basic posture that promotes posture, back strength and concentration.

Drishti – Points of visual fixation or concentration. They serve several purposes like: 1. Improving concentration: By intentionally fixing your gaze on a specific point. This helps you stay in the present moment. 2. Balancing and aligning the body: Drishti are often used to help properly align the body during asana (postures). By directing your gaze toward a certain point, you can adjust your posture to achieve optimal alignment, which reduces the risk of injury and allows for more efficient practice. 3. Develop body awareness: Drishti helps you develop a deep awareness of your body. By focusing your gaze on different parts of your body, you can better feel sensations and tensions, which promotes understanding of yourself and your practice. 4. Balancing energy: Some types of yoga suggest that drishti can help balance energy in the body by directing your attention to specific points, which can have effects on the energy system. Overall, drishti are an essential tool for deepening your yoga practice by improving focus, alignment, and body awareness. They help create a more enriching and meditative experience when practicing yoga. Here are the main Drishti: The Nasagra Drishti or looking at the tip of one’s nose; The Bhrumadhye Drishti or looking towards one’s third eye, with eyes closed; The Urdhva Drishti or looking towards the sky; Angusthamadhye Drishti or looking through one’s thumbs; The Nabhi chakra Drishti or looking at one’s navel; The Padayoragre Drishti or looking at his big toe; The Hastagre Drishti or looking at the tip of the middle finger; Parsva Drishti or looking to infinity to the right or left; The Andho Mukha Drishti ou regarder vers le sol.

Balance – Inner balance is essential to face life’s obstacles. To achieve this, it is important to know yourself, identify your fears and accept them in order to better transform them. Accepting your flaws and contradictions is the first step to understanding yourself better without judging yourself. Then focus on your skills and passions to feel more confident. This will allow you to explore new ideas and new perspectives to help you better understand who you are. It is also important to take care of yourself, eat healthily and exercise regularly to maintain a healthy body and mind.

Ekam – In the context of Ashtanga, Ekam represents the first posture or movement in a sequence. It embodies unity and the beginning of the yogic journey, often accompanied by breath and concentration (dristhi). This initial phase establishes the foundation for both physical and spiritual practice, guiding towards the subsequent stages (Dvitiya, Trini, etc.), harmonizing the body, mind, and breath to reach a meditative and balanced state.

Fluctuations – In yoga, Vrittis or the fluctuations of the mind refer to the constant and ever-changing movements of the mind. They include thoughts, emotions, and distractions that disrupt concentration. Yoga aims to calm these fluctuations through meditation and physical practice, allowing one to reach a state of clarity and inner stability. By observing and regulating these fluctuations, practitioners can progress towards deeper awareness and lasting peace of mind.

Ganesh – In Hindu tradition, Ganesh is the elephant-headed god, the son of Shiva and Parvati. Revered as the remover of obstacles and the patron of arts, sciences, and wisdom, Ganesh is often invoked at the beginning of ventures to ensure success and good fortune. His representation symbolizes wisdom that transcends physical appearances and intelligence that removes both inner and outer obstacles, thus promoting spiritual and material progress.

Hatha – It represents a physical and energetic practice aimed at balancing the body and mind through postures (asanas) and breathing techniques (pranayama). This discipline seeks to purify and strengthen the physical body to prepare the mind for meditation and spiritual awakening. Hatha Yoga also combines relaxation and concentration to promote overall health and the mental, physical, and emotional well-being of practitioners.

Inversion – In yoga, postures where the head is positioned lower than the heart are called inversions. These include asanas like headstand (Sirsasana) and shoulder stand, such as the candle pose (Sarvangasana). Inversions stimulate blood circulation to the brain, thereby improving concentration, memory, and mental clarity. They also strengthen the core muscles, enhance balance, and bring a sense of calm and relaxation by regulating the nervous system.

Janu – This refers to the posture “Janu Sirsasana.” It is a forward bend where one leg is extended while the other is bent, with the foot placed against the inner thigh of the extended leg. This posture stretches the groin, back, and hamstring muscles, improving the flexibility of the body. Janu Sirsasana also promotes relaxation and concentration, while benefiting the digestive system and metabolism.

Karma – In Indian traditions like Hinduism and Buddhism, Karma represents the universal law of cause and effect. It states that a person’s actions, whether good or bad, influence their future destiny. Karma is not only physical but also mental and emotional, shaping spiritual progression and reincarnation according to Hindu beliefs. Understanding and managing one’s karma involves becoming aware of one’s actions and their consequences, with the aim of evolving towards a deeper understanding of oneself and the universe.

Lotus – This refers to the posture Padmasana. The legs are crossed, with each foot resting on the opposite thigh, and the hands are placed in a mudra on the knees. This posture promotes stability and comfort during meditation by aligning the spine and opening the hips. The lotus symbolizes inner peace and spirituality, often associated with wisdom and self-mastery in the practice of yoga.

Mala – A Mala is a string of beads used in meditation and mantra recitation in spiritual traditions like Buddhism and Hinduism. Composed of 108 beads, it is used to count the repetitions of mantras or prayers. The Mala encourages concentration and deep contemplation, helping to maintain a meditative rhythm. It can be made from various materials such as wood, precious stones, or seeds, each having a particular symbolic and energetic significance.

Mandala – A sacred geometric diagram (Circle), it represents the universe and the search for inner unity. Composed of circular and symmetrical patterns, it symbolizes harmony, balance, and meditation. Creating or contemplating a mandala helps focus the mind and reach a deep meditative state, facilitating inner transformation and spiritual connection.

Mantra – A mantra is a sacred formula or sound repeated in meditation within spiritual traditions. It is used to focus the mind and elevate spiritual consciousness. Mantras can be sacred syllables like “Om,” phrases, or hymns dedicated to deities. Chanting or regularly reciting a mantra is believed to have beneficial effects on the body and mind, promoting inner peace and mental clarity.

Mudra – A mudra is a sacred or symbolic gesture used in yoga, meditation, and Indian dance to channel energy and express spiritual intentions. They involve specific positions of the hands and fingers that stimulate energy centers in the body (chakras). Each mudra has a unique effect on the mind and body, promoting concentration, energetic balance, and spiritual connection.

Namaste – Namaste is a traditional Hindu greeting, often accompanied by a hand gesture where the palms are joined near the heart and slightly bowed. This Sanskrit word expresses respect and gratitude towards another person, recognizing the divinity within each individual. It is used as both a formal and informal greeting in various contexts, including meditation, spiritual practices, and daily salutations. *Namaste* symbolizes unity, inner peace, and spiritual connection between individuals. “The light in me honors the light in you.”

OM (Aum) – Om is a sacred sound. It represents the vibrational essence of the universe, composed of three syllables: A (representing creation), U (preservation), and M (dissolution or transformation). Chanting or meditating on Om harmonizes the body, mind, and soul, inducing a state of deep consciousness. It is considered the primordial sound, connecting the individual to universal consciousness and the ultimate reality.

Prana – Prana is the universal life energy. It is present in all living beings and is influenced by conscious breathing. Prana circulates through the nadis (energy channels) and the chakras (energy centers), nourishing the body and mind. The practice of pranayama regulates and increases prana, promoting physical and mental health as well as spiritual awakening.

Pranayama – Pranayama is the art of breath control in yoga, aimed at regulating prana (vital energy) through various breathing techniques. Pranayama balances the nervous system, improves concentration, and prepares the mind for meditation. This practice also strengthens the lungs, increases vitality, and facilitates the harmonization of the body and mind through mastery of the breath.

Qigong – Qigong is a traditional Chinese practice combining gentle movements, conscious breathing, and meditation to cultivate Qi (vital energy). It aims to balance the flow of energy in the body, strengthening both physical and mental health. *Qigong* exercises can include dynamic and static forms, often practiced in mindfulness to harmonize the body, mind, and spirit. This ancient discipline promotes relaxation, flexibility, and strengthens the immune and energy systems of the individual.

Raja – Raja Yoga is the royal path of yoga. This path focuses on meditation and mastering the mind to achieve spiritual awakening. It includes practices of deep meditation, concentration (dharana), and introspection to cultivate mental clarity and inner peace. Raja Yoga seeks to unite the individual with their highest nature through mental and spiritual discipline.

Samadhi – Samadhi is a deep meditative state in yoga and Buddhism, where the individual experiences total unity with the universe or complete absorption in pure consciousness. It is the highest state of concentration and meditation, transcending the dualities of the ego and time. Samadhi is considered an experience of intense peace and bliss, achieved through the practice of yoga, mental discipline, and spiritual purification, leading to a transcendent perception of reality.

Samasthitih – Samasthiti is a standing posture in yoga where the feet are together, arms are by the sides of the body, and the attention is directed towards the breath and stabilizing the mind. This posture develops balance, concentration, and body awareness, preparing the practitioner for other asanas and meditation. Samasthiti encourages inner stability and physical, mental, and spiritual harmony through correct posture and conscious breathing.

Samskara – Samskaras are subconscious mental and emotional impressions formed by our past experiences. In Indian philosophy, particularly in Hinduism and Buddhism, samskaras influence our current thoughts, behaviors, and reactions. They can be either positive or negative, shaping our personality and karma. Meditation and spiritual practice aim to purify negative samskaras to achieve greater mental clarity and spiritual liberation, transforming subconscious conditioning for a more conscious and balanced life.

Shavasana – Shavasana, or the Corpse Pose, is a final relaxation pose in yoga. The practitioner lies on their back, arms and legs extended, fully releasing the body and closing the eyes. It is a moment of deep relaxation where the mind calms and the body regenerates. Shavasana promotes total relaxation, reduces stress, and internalizes the benefits of the yoga practice, preparing for a smooth transition into daily activities.

Sutra – “Sūtras” are short verses or aphorisms that are used to convey teachings, primarily in the philosophical and spiritual traditions of India. One of the most famous texts that uses sutras is the “Yoga Sūtra of Patañjali,” which is a foundational work in yoga philosophy. The sutras are characterized by their conciseness, density, and ability to encapsulate complex philosophical concepts in a few words. They are often written in Sanskrit, an ancient Indian language. Sutras often require further interpretation or explanation to be fully understood. The “Yoga Sūtra of Patañjali” is composed of 196 sūtras and offers a guide to the practice of yoga, including the physical, mental and spiritual aspects. Each of these sutras covers a specific aspect of yoga philosophy or practice, from meditation to self-control. In summary, sūtras are short, concise teachings, typically used in philosophical and spiritual contexts to convey deep and complex concepts in a memorable and accessible way.

Tadasana – Tadasana, or Mountain Pose, is the foundation of all standing postures in yoga. The practitioner stands with the feet together or slightly apart, arms by the sides, shoulders relaxed, and the gaze forward. This posture develops correct body alignment, strengthens the legs and spine, and promotes mental stability. Tadasana also encourages conscious breathing and a sense of grounding, preparing the body and mind for other asanas and meditation.

Trikonasana – Trikonasana, or Triangle Pose, is an asana where the body forms a triangular shape. One leg is extended to the side with the foot turned outward, while the other leg remains stable. One hand touches the ground or the extended leg, while the other arm reaches up towards the sky. Trikonasana stretches the sides of the body, improves balance, and strengthens the legs and core. It is a posture that promotes body openness and alignment.

Utkatasana – Utkatasana, or Chair Pose, is a posture where the practitioner simulates sitting on an invisible chair. The feet are together or slightly apart, with the arms lifted above the head or in prayer position in front of the chest. This asana strengthens the thighs, glutes, and lower back, while improving balance and stability. Utkatasana also stimulates circulation and builds muscular strength and endurance throughout the body.

Veda – The Vedas are sacred texts of ancient India, consisting of hymns, mantras, and ritual knowledge passed down orally. They are divided into four main parts: Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda, and Atharvaveda. The Vedas are the primary source of Hindu religious and philosophical practices, offering teachings on rituals, cosmology, morality, and meditation. They are revered for their timeless wisdom and spiritual authority, playing a central role in Indian culture and spirituality for millennia.

Yoga – Yoga is an ancient discipline that combines physical postures (asanas), conscious breathing (pranayama), and meditation to harmonize the body, mind, and soul. The word Yoga means union. Originating in India, yoga promotes flexibility, strength, and relaxation while cultivating self-awareness and inner peace. It is valued for its lasting physical and mental benefits.

Zen – Zen is a branch of Mahayana Buddhism that emphasizes meditation (zazen) to attain enlightenment. Originating in Japan, Zen promotes simplicity, spontaneity, and mindfulness in all daily actions. Practitioners seek to transcend duality and live fully in the present moment, guided by a master (roshi). Zen fosters an intuitive understanding of reality and deep inner peace, influencing art, culture, and philosophy.