Yoga: Poses and Benefits

Explication : Pranayama refers to breath control techniques. "Prana" means vital energy and "ayama" means extension or control. These breathing exercises are essential to yoga.

Explication : Savasana, or corpse pose, is the relaxation pose practiced at the end of each session. Despite its apparent simplicity, it is one of the most difficult poses to master.

Explication : Bikram Yoga, created by Bikram Choudhury, is practiced in a room heated to 40°C (104°F) with 40% humidity. It always includes the same series of 26 postures and 2 breathing exercises.

Explication : Chakras are energy centers located along the spine. There are 7 main chakras, from the root chakra (Muladhara) to the crown chakra (Sahasrara). They are associated with different physical and emotional functions.

Explication : Vrksasana, the tree pose, is excellent for developing balance and concentration. It also strengthens the legs and opens the hips. It is a pose of grounding and stability.

Explication : Patanjali's Yoga Sutras describe Samadhi as the ultimate state of consciousness, a total absorption where the individual merges with the object of meditation. It is the 8th and final limb of yoga.

Explication : The term Vinyasa refers to the synchronization of movement with breath. In a Vinyasa Yoga class, poses flow smoothly together, with each movement coordinated with an inhalation or exhalation.

Explication : Bhujangasana comes from "bhujanga" (serpent) and "asana" (pose). This back extension pose imitates a raised cobra. It strengthens the back and opens the chest.

Explication : The bolster (cylindrical cushion) is essential in Yin Yoga where poses are held for 3 to 5 minutes. It allows complete relaxation and access to deep connective tissues.

Explication : Yoga Nidra, or "yoga of sleep", is a deep relaxation technique practiced lying down. One remains conscious while reaching a state between wakefulness and sleep, which is very rejuvenating.

Explication : Sarvangasana, the shoulder stand, is an inversion that stimulates the thyroid gland through chin pressure on the throat. It regulates metabolism and calms the nervous system.

Explication : Sukhasana, the "easy pose" or "pleasant pose", is the most accessible cross-legged seated position. It is the basis for meditation and breathing exercises.