Yoga Glossary of Terms
Terms Used in Yoga
Asana: a low physical impact posture practiced in yoga
Aum: Sanskrit word meaning "all" represents the omnipresence of Paramatma (the supreme spirit)
Chakra: a point of intersection of the main channels of energy flow in the body (Chakras regulate the functioning of the body and correspond to the major endocrine glands in the body.)
Guru: teacher; spiritual preceptor
Hatha yoga: the path of yoga that starts with the practice of asanas
Karma yoga: the path of yoga that starts with emphasis on performing one's duty (action)
Kundalini: latent energy lying dormant at the base of the spinal column
Kundalini yoga: the path of yoga that starts with meditation
Maharishi: a great sage
Mudra: a seal; a sealing posture
Nadi: a tubular organ of the subtle body through which the energy flows
Nauli: a process in which the abdominal muscles and organs are made to move in a surging motion
Patanjali: name of the first writer of the yoga philosophy
Prana: breath; life; vitality
Pranayama: the rhythmic regulation of breath
Raja yoga: the path of yoga that starts with psychic control of the mind