Yoga words in plain English: a short glossary
Asana, pranayama, vinyasa, drishti, namaste — the words teachers say in class, translated so you know what is being asked of you.
4 min read
Teachers mix Sanskrit and English constantly. Here are the words you will hear in your first ten classes.
Words for what you are doing
- Asana — a physical pose. Every pose name ends in -asana in Sanskrit.
- Vinyasa — linking movement to breath; also the name of the flowing style.
- Pranayama — breathing practice, done deliberately and often seated.
- Drishti — a fixed gaze point, used to steady balance and attention.
- Bandha — an internal muscular lift, usually of the pelvic floor or lower belly.
Words for how to do it
- Ujjayi — the soft ocean-sound breath through the nose used in flowing classes.
- Sthira sukham — steady and comfortable; the classical test of whether a pose is right for you.
- Modification — an easier or supported version. Not a lesser version.
- Prop — a block, strap, bolster or blanket that brings the floor closer to you.
Words at the start and end
- Om — a chanted sound used to mark the beginning or end. Joining in is optional.
- Namaste — a closing greeting, roughly 'the light in me acknowledges the light in you'.
- Savasana — corpse pose; the final rest lying on your back.
You do not need to memorise any of this. Teachers describe every shape in English as well, and asking after class is completely normal.
Common questions
- Do I have to chant om?
- No. Sitting quietly while others chant is common and nobody notices.
- What does namaste mean?
- It is a respectful greeting from Sanskrit, used in many Indian languages, roughly meaning 'I bow to you'. In class it usually marks the end of practice.
Put it into practice
Find a class that matches what you have just read — near you, or online.
Sequences to try
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