The Essential Yoga Dictionary: 20 Terms Every Beginner Should Know
Starting your yoga journey can feel overwhelming, especially when you encounter unfamiliar terms and Sanskrit words. However, understanding basic yoga vocabulary doesn’t have to be intimidating. This comprehensive guide breaks down 20 essential yoga terms that every beginner should know, helping you feel more confident as you step onto your mat.
Whether you’re planning to join your first class or exploring yoga and meditation with Vitalizen.app, this dictionary will serve as your trusted companion. Moreover, having this foundation will enhance your practice and deepen your understanding of this ancient art.
What is Yoga? Understanding the Foundation
Before diving into specific terms, let’s clarify what yoga actually means. The word “yoga” comes from the Sanskrit root “yuj,” which means “to unite” or “to join.” Essentially, yoga is a practice that connects mind, body, and spirit through physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation.
Furthermore, yoga is much more than just physical exercise. It’s a complete system for wellness that has been practiced for thousands of years. At Vitalizen.app, we honor this holistic approach while making it accessible to modern practitioners.
Essential Yoga Poses (Asanas) Terms
“Asana” is the Sanskrit word for yoga pose or posture. Here are the most important poses you’ll encounter as a beginner:
Downward Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana)
This foundational pose resembles an inverted “V” shape. Additionally, it’s one of the most recognizable yoga poses and appears in almost every class. The pose strengthens your arms and legs while stretching your entire body.
Child’s Pose (Balasana)
A resting pose where you kneel and fold forward, touching your forehead to the ground. Consequently, this pose provides a sense of safety and calm during your practice. It’s perfectly acceptable to return to this pose whenever you need a break.
Warrior Pose (Virabhadrasana)
There are three variations of Warrior pose, each building strength and confidence. These poses are named after a fierce warrior and help develop both physical and mental resilience.
¨C12C¨C13C
Breathing and Meditation Terms
¨C14C¨C15C¨C16C¨C17C¨C18C¨C19C¨C20C¨C21C¨C22C
Common Yoga Philosophy Terms
¨C23C¨C24C¨C25C¨C26C¨C27C¨C28C¨C29C¨C30C¨C31C
Practical Class Terms
¨C32C¨C33C¨C34C¨C35C¨C36C¨C37C¨C38C¨C39C¨C40C¨C41C
Do I need to know Sanskrit to practice yoga?
What does Namaste really mean?
Namaste is a respectful greeting meaning “I bow to you” or “the divine in me honors the divine in you.” It’s a way of showing respect and gratitude at the end of a yoga class. However, not all classes end with Namaste, and it’s perfectly fine if you’re not comfortable saying it.
Are yoga poses religious?
<div