The Spa Traveller Guide · Yoga
From asana and pranayama to vinyasa and Yoga Nidra, this plain-English glossary explains the Sanskrit words and class terms a beginner is most likely to encounter.
A note on language
Yoga spans many cultures, traditions and schools of thought. A short glossary can offer a useful starting point, but some Sanskrit terms carry broader philosophical meanings than a single English translation can convey.
Essential yoga terms
- Asana
- A physical posture or seat. In a modern class, the word is commonly used for individual yoga poses.
- Bandha
- A “lock” or focused muscular action used in some yoga and breathing practices. Learn these with an experienced teacher rather than forcing a contraction.
- Chakra
- An energy-centre concept found in several Indian spiritual traditions. Chakra language belongs to a philosophical or subtle-body framework; it is not the same as an anatomical structure.
- Dharma
- A broad Sanskrit term associated with duty, right conduct, teaching or one’s path, depending on the tradition and context.
- Drishti
- A chosen gaze point. Teachers may suggest a drishti to support concentration and steadiness in balancing postures.
- Hatha yoga
- An umbrella term for physical yoga traditions. On a modern timetable, “Hatha” often indicates a slower class where postures are practised individually rather than linked in a rapid flow.
- Jnana yoga
- A path centred on knowledge, inquiry and contemplation.
- Karma yoga
- A path of action or service, traditionally associated with acting without attachment to personal reward.
- Kundalini
- A concept of latent spiritual energy in yogic traditions. “Kundalini Yoga” can also describe modern practices combining movement, breath, sound and meditation.
- Mantra
- A sound, word or phrase repeated aloud or silently as part of meditation or devotional practice.
- Mudra
- A symbolic gesture, often made with the hands, used in yoga, meditation and Indian artistic traditions.
- Namaste
- A respectful Sanskrit-derived greeting widely used in South Asia. In yoga settings it is often accompanied by palms together; elaborate English translations are interpretations rather than literal definitions.
- Prana
- A yogic concept often translated as vital energy or life force. It is closely associated with breath, but the two words are not exact synonyms.
- Pranayama
- Practices that work deliberately with the breath. Techniques range from gentle observation to breath retention; beginners should learn more demanding methods from a qualified teacher.
- Savasana
- The final resting posture, usually lying on the back. It may look simple, but its purpose is to allow effort to settle and attention to become quiet.
- Surya Namaskar
- Sun Salutation: a linked sequence of postures used to warm the body and connect breath with movement. There are several versions.
- Tantra
- A diverse group of Indian religious and philosophical traditions. Modern popular usage often narrows the term inaccurately; its historical meaning is much broader than sexuality.
- Ujjayi
- A breathing technique using a gentle narrowing at the throat to create a soft, audible breath. It is often used in flowing practices.
- Vinyasa
- A way of linking movement with breath. On studio timetables, Vinyasa usually means a flowing class, although sequence and intensity vary considerably.
- Yamas
- Ethical principles described within Patanjali’s eight-limbed yoga framework, including non-harming, truthfulness and non-stealing.
- Yoga Nidra
- A guided practice of deep relaxation, usually completed lying down. It is sometimes called “yogic sleep,” although participants normally remain aware of the guidance.
“You do not need to memorise Sanskrit to belong in a yoga class. A good teacher explains what matters and welcomes questions.”
Five class labels beginners often see
- Restorative: quiet, supported postures held for longer periods.
- Yin: mostly floor-based postures held with relatively little muscular effort.
- Hatha: often slower and more instructional, although usage varies.
- Vinyasa or flow: continuous sequences linked to breath.
- Yoga Nidra: guided relaxation rather than a conventional movement class.
Before choosing a class
Ask about pace, experience level and whether the teacher offers adaptations. Mention pregnancy, recent surgery, persistent pain or a relevant medical condition. Stop if a posture causes sharp pain, numbness, dizziness or unusual symptoms.
Compare the formats in our guide: Yoga, Pilates or BODYBALANCE: which class is right for you?
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