35 Basic Yoga Terms Every New Yogi Should Learn

Starting a yoga journey can seem a little difficult, especially when you hear new words in every class and from every teacher. If you are a beginner, this glossary is the perfect roadmap for you.

Here we’ve compiled 35 common yoga terms that will help you feel confident in class. Whether it’s the names of the poses, the breathing techniques, or the words of the meditation—you’ll get everything in this blog in a simple and easy-to-remember way. Let’s get started and explore these must-know terms of the world of yoga.

Basic Yoga Words

Yoga

A practice that connects body, mind, and breath to reduce stress and increase flexibility.

Asana

Physical pose that is done to stretch, strengthen, and balance the body.

Pranayama

Breathing exercises that are for energy control and mental calmness.

Sanskrit

Traditional language that contains terms and chants so that the true meaning of yoga and discipline can be understood.

Namaste

A word or gesture of respect and gratitude that is said at the start or end of the class.

 Common Yoga Poses (Asanas)

 Tadasana (Mountain Pose)

Standing upright and aligning the body helps to keep the spine straight and develop balance.

Balasana (Child’s Pose)

Forward bending after kneeling helps to reduce tension in the back and shoulders.

Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward Dog)

Lifting the hips up by placing the hands and feet on the ground stretches and strengthens the entire body.

Uttanasana (Forward Fold)

Leaning forward and stretching the hamstrings reduces stress and anxiety.

Sukhasana (Easy Pose)

Sit cross-legged and create a comfortable position for meditation.

Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)

Lifting the upper body while lying on your stomach opens the chest and makes the back strong.

Virabhadrasana I (Warrior I)

The lunge pose increases both your strength and focus and makes your legs and core strong.

Virabhadrasana II (Warrior II)

This pose increases your stability and stamina, and it helps improve your

posture.

Savasana (Corpse Pose)

Lying flat with closed eyes helps your entire body to get relaxed. It also helps to release stress and calm your mind.

 Breathing Terms (Pranayama)

 Ujjayi Breath

Slow and audible breathing that helps with concentration and calmness.

Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril)

Breathing in through one nostril and exhaling through the other. It helps to balance your mind and energy.

Kapalabhati

Rapid exhalation through the nose to boost the energy and clear the lungs.

Dirgh (Three-Part Breathing)

Deep breathing using the diaphragm. It reduces anxiety and increases oxygen flow.

Nabhi Pranayama

Focused breathing that calms the mind and improves digestion.

Alignment and Cueing Terms Teachers Use

 Drishti

Focus point for balance. It also enhances concentration.

Mudra

It is a symbolic hand gesture that helps in meditation.

Bandha

Controlling energy and stability by locking a specific part of the body.

Utkata (Utkata Bandha)

Engaging the lower abdomen and pelvic area for stability helps to improve posture and also makes your core and lower back strong.

Samabhava

Stabilizing the body with the feet or hands increases balance and focus.

Vinyasa

Connecting poses with smooth breathing increases stamina, coordination, and strength.

 Yoga Class Styles and Their Meanings

 Hatha Yoga

A combination of slow and simple poses that is perfect for beginners. Focus and alignment are taught in each pose. It improves strength, flexibility, and body awareness.

Ashtanga Yoga

A structured and fixed sequence of poses, with a fast-paced flow. Strength and stamina are built, and discipline is developed through this yoga.

Yin Yoga

In yin yoga, the poses are held for a long time for deep stretching. It improves flexibility.

Supta Yoga

Gentle poses are done by using props like yoga straps or yoga blocks. It relaxes your mind and body and helps to release stress.

Hot Yoga

Yoga practices in a heated room improve flexibility and strength by warming up muscles and joints.

Kundalini Yoga

A combination of breathing, movement, and meditation. It helps your mind to focus and makes your body energetic.

Meditation and Mindfulness Terms

 Mantra

Repetition of a word or sound. It helps you to focus on your practice.

Om

It is a sacred sound. Mostly done for mindfulness and relaxation.

Dhyana

It is a meditation practice that helps to bring focus of the mind to a single point. It also increases concentration and reduces stress.

 Closing Phrases and Cultural Terms

 Shanti

This word indicates peace. It is often used in chants and promotes calm and positive energy.

 

How Can You Make Your Yoga Practice Safer?

• Always start with a warm-up to get your body ready.
• If you feel pain, stop the pose or soften it.
• Keep your breath smooth.
• Keep your mat and floor dry to prevent slipping.
• Never ignore any injury or health condition.
• Use props for extra safety.