The 25 Most Common Sanskrit Words Used in Yoga (2023)

Yoga originated in India thousands of years ago, dating back to an original set of sacred Sanskrit texts. Since then, Yoga has been adopted and documented by countries across the planet. Sanskrit is the root of many Indian languages ​​and one of the oldest in the world.

Although Sanskrit is no longer a commonly spoken language, it is regularly used in yoga classes these days. The Sanskrit language connects those who practice Yoga with its oldest and most classical form, but don't worry because you can stilllearn sanskrit for yoga today. Each Sanskrit word is believed to have its own consciousness and pronouncing them allows you to access the true meaning and consciousness of each word.

Many Sanskrit words are widely used in yoga classes today. Many of these terms and their meanings may be familiar to you, especially if you practice or study yoga. All these Sanskrit terms are widely used in yoga classes across the world. Let's look at the 25 most common terms used in yoga classes around the world today and what they mean.

Although "OM" is not a word in itself, it is believed to be a sound rich in meaning and depth. It is said to resonate with the same vibration as the universe. "OM" is a mantra used regularly at the beginning and end of sessions. When pronounced correctly, it sounds like "AUM".

Asana is known as the postures used while practicing yoga. These positions are held for long periods to induce meditation. When translated into English, Asana means "seat". There are many Asanas that are used regularly in Yoga classes and practices.

Ahimsa is defined as respect for all living beings and a commitment to non-violence. Ahimsa is one of the five Yamas described in Pantajali's Yoga Sutras. It is similar to universal love and compassion.

Namaste is the most popular Sanskrit term for yoga. Namaste is still an Indian greeting translated as "the light in me honors the light in you". Namaste is used as a greeting in yoga classes, often returning at the end of a session.

Bhakti is the devotional worship of a supreme deity. This Sanskrit word can have many meanings when translated, including purity, devotion, participation or attachment.

Tantra is a Hindu or Buddhist text dating from the 7th century. Translated from the origins of the word, Tantra can mean "a device for spreading wisdom".

Sutra is the derivative of the English word “suture”. The Yoga Sutras of Pantajali is an essential text for the practice of modern yoga. Sutras lay the foundations of yoga philosophy through a series of topics or texts.

Shanti directly translates as "peace". It is regularly sung after the final "OM" at the end of most yoga classes.

Citta is defined as consciousness or mind itself. Yoga is used to calm or focus mental habits or thoughts.

Dharma is an aspect of truth or reality. It is the moral and religious law consisting of generosity, truth and other virtues.

Drishti is the yoga practice of looking focused and a way to develop concentration.

A guru is a spiritual teacher or guide whose duty it is to impart the knowledge and practice of yoga to his students.

A mantra is a repeated word or sound to help develop concentration or focus. The root of "mantra" is "man" in Sanskrit, which means "to think".

Karma is a widely known term that means “what goes around, comes around”. Karma is a universal law shared by many religions in and around India.

Hatha means effort or vigour, referring to the effort and discipline required to actively practice yoga.

Mudra literally translates as "to produce". Mudras are symbolic hand gestures used to seal in specific energies. In Hinduism and Buddhism ceremonies, mudras are used with the hands and other parts of the body.

Kirtan is a Sanskrit word that translates as writing, describing or telling a story or idea. Kirtan is used in yoga practice during the chanting and chanting of mantras.

Pranayama is the regulation and lengthening of the breath through exercises and concentration.

Tapas is a Sanskrit word meaning "heat" or "fire". Tapas are spiritual practices performed for self-discipline.

Yoga is the most well-known Sanskrit word around the world. Mine to join. The Sanskrit word “yoga” is derived from the root “Yuj”, which means to unite, unite or enjoy”.

Heyoga languageby Nicolai Bachman is a comprehensive guide to asana names, Sanskrit terms, and chants. This book comes with CDs that provide pronunciations and examples of yoga chants. The language of yoga combines informal, traditional and academic teaching of Sanskrit sounds. Nicolai Bachman is the director of Sanskrit Sounds, a company that promotes the preservation of the language and many ancient sciences of India.

Sanskrit is one of the oldest languages ​​on the planet, and although it is no longer spoken regularly, it is still very widespread in yoga teachings. Yoga classes regularly use 25 Sanskrit words and their meanings come from texts that are nearly five thousand years old. There are several books to help you learn some commonly used Sanskrit words and their definitions in relation to yoga practice.