We all struggle when the Yoga instructor starts using Sanskrit terms or as they call it, “Yoga Sanskrit”. Somehow, poses like “Adho Mukha Svanasana” start sounding more like spells than instructions. But, you know things only feel complex until we understand them. Don’t worry, this is not gonna be a language lesson, but rather a concise and insightful take on some basic yoga Sanskrit terms you should know. Let’s start with understanding the importance of Sanskrit in yoga practice and how yoga loses its essence without this link.
Importance of Sanskrit in Yoga Practice
Did you know, that Sanskrit is referred to as the “vibrational language.” Why? Well, this 3,500-year-old language is comprised of syllables that conform to specific energy centres (chakras) within our body. When enunciated, these Sanskrit words are believed to generate vibrations that can influence not only your mind but also your energy field. Okay, let’s take the instance of, the most well-known Sanskrit mantra “Om”. Being the elemental sound that represents the universe, it is believed that chanting “Om” can induce a deep frequency that harmonises your body, mind and spirit.
Now that you have some idea of how significant Sanskrit is, it is time to understand how yoga and Sanskrit are intertwined. Around 1500-500 BCE, early Vedic texts in Sanskrit began introducing the foremost concepts related to what we today know as Yoga. These sacred texts, such as the Rigveda and the Upanishads contained the first references to the practices of dhyana (meditation) and atman (self-realisation), which were integral to understanding and harnessing our internal energies. Sanskrit, as the language of these texts, was uniquely suited to convey the depth and nuances of these practices. It provided the precise terminology and spiritual resonance needed to fully grasp and apply the concepts of Yoga. Hence, without Sanskrit, much of the profound depth and impact of Yoga would be lost, as the language plays a crucial role in accessing the full potential of these ancient practices.
How Understanding Sanskrit Enhances Yoga Practise
Alright folks, let’s get back to the point. Understanding yoga Sanskrit can elevate your practice, not just by refining your methods but by connecting you more deeply with the time-honoured sources of yoga. Let’s take the example of another familiar term “asana”. In general use, the term is meant as “pose”, but its actual meaning in Sanskrit is “posture” which extends far beyond its general definition. The term “asana” signifies the notion of maintaining a consistent and steady position—both physically and mentally. Each yoga pose, that ends in “asana”, is not merely about holding a specific bodily position or alignment. Instead, it is actually about creating a stable and balanced foundation from which you can stimulate inner peace and strength. As you can see now, rather than focusing entirely on just holding a position correctly, you know that being in “asana” is only the first step and a way to connect with the essence of yoga. Now, let’s have a look at some important Sanskrit terms in yoga:
Basic Yoga Sanskrit Terms
Here’s a rundown on the most frequently used yoga Sanskrit terms:
Dhyana (ध्यान):
- Sanskrit Breakdown: “Dhyana” comes from the root “dhyā” (ध्या) meaning “to contemplate” or “to meditate.”
- Meaning: Dhyana refers to the practice of directing your thoughts inward to achieve inner peace (Yes, exactly like in Kung Fu Panda) and clarity.
Mantra (मन्त्र):
- Sanskrit Breakdown: “Man” (मन्) in Sanskrit translates to “mind” or “to think,” and “Tra” (त्र) means “instrument” or “tool.”
- Meaning: A Mantra is a sacred word or phrase that if repeated during meditation aids in concentration and spiritual growth.
Chakra (चक्र):
- Sanskrit Breakdown: “Chakra” means “wheel” or “circle.” It refers to the spinning energy centres in our body.
- Meaning: In Yoga, chakras are defined as the body’s energy centres, each representing different physical and emotional aspects of our mortal existence.
Sankalpa (संकल्प):
- Sanskrit Breakdown: “Saam” (सम्) loose;y translates to “together” or “a whole,” + “Kalpa” (कल्प) which means “intention” or “vow.”
- Meaning: Sankalpa implies a resolution or intention. It is a commitment you make at the beginning of your practice to guide your focus and spirit.
Vinyasa (विन्यास):
- Sanskrit Breakdown: “Vi” (वि) meaning “in a special way,” + “Nyasa” (न्यास) which means “to place.”
Meaning: Vinyasa refers to a style of yoga that connects your movements in a flowing motion using your breathing.
Trivia: Did you know, in Sanskrit, “Yoga” translates to “Yog” (pronounced “yoga”), which originates from the root word “Yuj” meaning “to join” or “to unite.” So “Yoga” essentially means “union” or “integration,” referring to the practice of linking ourselves to the universe.
Sanskrit Names for Common Yoga Poses
Now, let’s learn the original Sanskrit names of some basic yoga poses you might have heard of or practised in your yoga sessions:
- Mountain Pose – In Sanskrit, this is called Tadasana. It’s all about standing tall and strong, like a mountain.
- Downward-Facing Dog – This pose is known as Adho Mukha Svanasana in Sanskrit. It’s like the position a dog takes when stretching out, with your hips lifted up and your body forming an inverted V.
- Warrior I – In Sanskrit, this is Virabhadrasana I. It’s a powerful pose that helps you feel strong and grounded, with one foot forward and the other extended back.
- Warrior II – This pose is called Virabhadrasana II. It’s similar to Warrior I but with your arms extended out to the sides, creating a strong, stable stance.
- Tree Pose – Known as Vrksasana in Sanskrit, this pose involves standing on one leg while the other leg is bent and the foot rests against your inner thigh, like a tree with strong roots.
- Child’s Pose – In Sanskrit, this is Balasana. It’s a gentle resting pose where you sit back on your heels, stretch your arms forward, and relax your forehead to the mat.
- Bridge Pose – This is Setu Bandhasana in Sanskrit. You lie on your back and lift your hips up while keeping your shoulders and feet on the ground, forming a bridge-like shape.
- Cobra Pose – Known as Bhujangasana in Sanskrit, this pose involves lying on your stomach and lifting your chest while keeping your lower body on the ground like a cobra rising.
- Seated Forward Bend – This pose is called Paschimottanasana. It involves sitting with your legs extended in front of you and reaching forward to touch your toes.
- Corpse Pose – Finally, this is Savasana. It’s the relaxing pose at the end of your practice where you lie flat on your back, letting go of all tension and simply resting.
That’s a lot of information, isn’t it? No worries, so now, in the words of Marvel Jesus, let’s give the people what they came for:
Benefits of Learning Yoga Sanskrit
Yes!, finally eh? We got the history lesson, and a bit of basic language info, but what good is learning yoga Sanskrit for you? A lot! Here’s a rundown on some of the many benefits of learning yoga Sanskrit for yogis.
Deeper Understanding = Better Yoga
It goes without saying: “The more you understand anything, the better you can do it.” Look, learning yoga Sanskrit will help you connect more deeply, not just with the ancient traditions of yoga, but also with your true self. Many of the core yoga texts, including the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali are composed in Sanskrit. Thus, by understanding the language, you can better deploy it in your daily yoga and get the most out of it.
Vibrations, Energies and Inner Peace (stop giggling like Po)
As you now know Sanskrit is called a “vibrational language” as its sounds are believed to influence our minds and bodies on a deeper level. For instance, the Sanskrit phrase “Om” has a cited vibrational frequency of 432 Hz which is believed to be in alignment and consonance with the natural resonance of our little blue and green planet. When you chant “Om” repeatedly with focus, your head starts clearing up and you feel more connected to the universe. Also, get this, each Sanskrit word or mantra carries a specific vibrational frequency that resonates with the energy centres (chakras) in your body. When these energy centres reverberate with such vibrations, your mind, body and soul begin to self-nourish themselves, resulting in you feeling a profound harmony inside.
Improve Instruction and Learning
For my fellow yoga instructors, a grasp of Sanskrit will allow for more precise and meaningful communication. It will enable you to convey the essence of each pose and practice accurately, enriching the learning experience for students. Using traditional Sanskrit terms also helps create a richer, more authentic environment in your classes.
Enhanced Awareness of Yoga’s Nuances
Yoga Sanskrit also equips you with a rich vocabulary that captures the subtleties of yoga. Take the word “samadhi”—which is often translated as “meditative state of oneness”—represents a state of unity with the universe. See, by just knowing the actual meaning of “samadhi,” you have gained insights into achieving this elevated state of consciousness, not just theoretically but practically in your practice.
Access to a Broader Range of Resources
Many advanced yoga resources, including books, videos, and online courses, utilize Sanskrit terms. Understanding Sanskrit opens up a broader range of resources and allows you to access and utilize advanced materials that may be difficult to fully comprehend without some knowledge of the language.
Conclusion
Dear readers and my fellow Yogis, this path of understanding and using yoga Sanskrit is not just ancient but also very profound. It does look intimidating but as you begin understanding these words, they become a part of your practice. They help you bridge the gap between the outer world and the inner realm, between your physical form and your spirit. And once you get a hold of them, they become spells that can transform your entire being. Each yoga Sanskrit term in itself is a key, that unlocks the door to a deeper, more authentic yoga session. Remember, the charm of yoga Sanskrit lies not in the perfect pronunciation of words, but in how deeply you understand and embody their meaning. It’s all about the purpose you have, the cognition you develop, and the transformation you undergo.
I know learning or understanding yoga Sanskrit can prove to be difficult at the beginning. It always is with anything new. Remember when you learnt to ride a bicycle, losing your balance and falling was such a big fear, but once you got a little hold on it, you were off to the races, literally! So, trust me, my dear yogis, once you understand yoga Sanskrit, you will start to not only see but feel the difference.
Alright, take care yogis, see you later and Namaste (I bow to the divine in you).