Yoga is a discipline that incorporates physical, mental, and spiritual practices to achieve a state of balance and harmony. As a yoga teacher, having the right phrases and cues to guide your students through their practice is essential to creating a safe and inspiring environment. Here, we have compiled a list of yoga phrases for teachers, along with their definitions, steps to do, benefits, and precautions.
Namaste (नमस्ते)
Namaste is a common salutation in yoga, and it is often used at the beginning and end of a yoga class. The word Namaste is derived from the Sanskrit words “namah” (meaning bow) and “te” (meaning you). It is a gesture of respect and gratitude, and it acknowledges the divine spark in each person. To perform Namaste, bring your hands together at the heart center, close your eyes, and bow your head. It is a way of connecting with the inner self and with others.
Ujjayi Pranayama (उज्जायी प्राणायाम)
Ujjayi Pranayama, also known as victorious breath, is a breathing technique commonly used in yoga. This pranayama involves constricting the back of the throat while breathing in and out through the nose, creating a soothing oceanic sound. It helps to increase the flow of oxygen to the body and calm the mind. To practice Ujjayi Pranayama, sit in a comfortable position, close your eyes, and take slow and deep breaths through the nose while constricting the throat. This practice helps to improve concentration and release tension.
Tadasana (ताडासन)
Tadasana, also known as mountain pose, is the foundation for many standing yoga poses. It promotes good posture, balance, and awareness of the body. To practice Tadasana, stand with your feet together, engage the thigh muscles, and lengthen the spine. Keep the arms alongside the body with the palms facing forward. Tadasana helps to strengthen the legs, improve posture, and increase mental focus.
Anjaneyasana (अञ्जनेयासन)
Anjaneyasana, also known as low lunge, is a yoga pose that stretches the hip flexors, quadriceps, and hamstrings. To practice Anjaneyasana, start in a high lunge position with the right foot forward, then gently lower the left knee to the mat. Keep the right knee directly over the ankle and sink the hips forward and down. This pose helps to improve flexibility, release tension in the hips, and increase energy flow in the body.
Savasana (शवासन)
Savasana, also known as corpse pose, is a relaxation pose that is usually practiced at the end of a yoga class. It involves lying on the back with the arms and legs comfortably spread and the eyes closed. Savasana helps to calm the nervous system, reduce stress, and promote a sense of deep relaxation and rejuvenation.
Incorporating these yoga phrases and poses into your teaching can help create a more meaningful and fulfilling experience for your students. By understanding the definitions, steps to do, benefits, and precautions of each phrase, you can effectively guide your students through their practice and help them achieve a deeper connection with themselves and the practice of yoga.
