GLOSSARY OF YOGA TERMS 

Sanskrit - Ancient language previously spoken in India. Sanskrit is no longer spoken in India, however it is still studied in religious and spiritual contexts. It is considered a spiritual language; the language of Yoga.

Prana - Life force. Part of yoga practice involves connecting to, and directly experiencing, the life force in our bodies. Ultimately the practice of yoga allows us to direct and master our own energy/life force.

Sthira - Steadiness, Firmness. This is one of the quintessential two adjectives given in the Yoga Sutras for how poses should be practiced.

Sukha - Joy, happiness, ease. This is the second of the two quintessential adjectives given in the Yoga Sutras for how poses should be practiced.

Asana - Posture, pose, seat. The outward form of yoga. Most sanskrit names of poses end in this word.

Savasana - The classical final pose to be practiced at the end of a yoga session. As it means "corpse pose" it is also truly the final pose in life. On the physical level, savasana is good for the nervous system and to re-align the body. Energetically, savasana gently reminds us that all of our lives are ultimately moving towards death. This is not meant as a morbid reminder, but as a motivation to live fully while we're alive.

Shreyas - Beautiful, auspicious, best. This word refers to an approach to living life based on  maximum long term happiness and prosperity. In other words 'Delaying the gratification of immediate pleasure for fulfillment of a long term goal.' Being present while being aware of the future consequences of our present actions, and making choices to ensure the best possible long term outcome.

Preyas - Self-centered action. A way of life based on "the pleasure principle."Living life as if on a quest to attain maximum immediate pleasure. 

Yoga - To yolk, unify, bring together. Aligning two or more parts i.e. "Mind-body harmony."