Yoga Vocabulary

Om

Om is thought to be the most pure sound in the universe. Chanting “om” at the beginning and end of class is meant to rid your mind of worldly thoughts bringing you deeper toward a meditative state. If you’ve ever been reluctant to chant om (pronounced aum) in a class go ahead and give it a try. The sound seems to reverberate through your entire body and it’s a thoroughly energizing experience.

Namaste

Pronounced  Nah-mah-stay. A sign of respect. Many times interpreted as “the light in me honors the light in you.” At the end of each practice, you place your palms together (also called “anjali-mudra”) at your heart or between your brows and bow your head as you say “namaste”. Although this pose is sometimes referred to as prayer position this need not be associated with Western ideas about prayer.

Asana

Simply the poses we use in yoga.

Savasana

Also referred to as “corpse” pose. This is the final resting pose at the end of your practice. This seems like an unimportant part of your practice, however, it may be the most important. Its purpose is to integrate the benefits of your practice.

Mudra

Hand gestures. The placement of your fingers and hands have specific meanings. Again, anjali mudra is what we refer to as prayer position.

Drishti

This is your focal point. During balance poses especially it’s helpful to have a focal point in order to keep your balance.