Yoga philosophy and brain health
Expert-defined terms from the Specialist Certification in Brain Health and Yoga course at London School of Business and Administration. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Asana #
Specific Term #
Asana
Concept #
Physical postures practiced in yoga
Explanation #
Asana refers to the physical postures or poses practiced in yoga. These postures are designed to promote physical strength, flexibility, balance, and mental focus. Examples of common asanas include Downward Dog, Warrior II, and Tree Pose.
Ayurveda #
Specific Term #
Ayurveda
Concept #
Traditional Indian system of medicine
Explanation #
Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine that originated in India. It focuses on achieving balance in the body through diet, herbal remedies, and lifestyle practices. Ayurveda recognizes three primary doshas, or mind-body types: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
Brain Health #
Specific Term #
Brain Health
Concept #
The overall well-being of the brain
Explanation #
Brain health refers to the overall well-being of the brain, including cognitive function, emotional well-being, and the ability to learn and adapt. Maintaining brain health is essential for optimal functioning and quality of life. Yoga practices such as meditation and mindfulness have been shown to support brain health by reducing stress and improving cognitive function.
Breath Awareness #
Specific Term #
Breath Awareness
Concept #
Conscious focus on the breath
Explanation #
Breath awareness is the practice of consciously focusing on the breath. This can involve observing the natural rhythm of the breath, deepening the breath, or using specific breathing techniques to promote relaxation and mindfulness. Breath awareness is a fundamental aspect of yoga practice and can help calm the mind and reduce stress.
Chakra #
Specific Term #
Chakra
Concept #
Energy centers in the body
Explanation #
Chakras are energy centers located along the spine in the subtle body. There are seven main chakras, each associated with specific physical, emotional, and spiritual qualities. Practices such as yoga and meditation are believed to help balance and align the chakras, promoting overall well-being and vitality.
Cognitive Function #
Specific Term #
Cognitive Function
Concept #
Mental processes such as memory and reasoning
Explanation #
Cognitive function refers to a range of mental processes, including memory, attention, reasoning, and problem-solving. Maintaining optimal cognitive function is essential for everyday tasks and overall well-being. Yoga practices that promote mindfulness and stress reduction can support cognitive function by enhancing focus and memory.
Dosha #
Specific Term #
Dosha
Concept #
Mind-body type in Ayurveda
Explanation #
In Ayurveda, doshas are the three primary mind-body types: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each dosha is associated with specific physical and emotional characteristics, and individuals may have a dominant dosha or a combination of two or three. Understanding your dosha can help guide lifestyle choices and promote balance and health.
Executive Function #
Specific Term #
Executive Function
Concept #
Cognitive skills for self-regulation
Explanation #
Executive function refers to a set of cognitive skills that help with self-regulation, planning, problem-solving, and decision-making. These skills are controlled by the prefrontal cortex of the brain and are essential for goal-directed behavior. Practices such as yoga and mindfulness can support executive function by improving focus, impulse control, and emotional regulation.
Flow State #
Specific Term #
Flow State
Concept #
Mental state of complete absorption
Explanation #
Flow state is a mental state of complete absorption and focus in an activity. In this state, individuals experience a sense of effortless concentration, deep enjoyment, and a loss of self-awareness. Yoga and meditation practices can help cultivate a flow state by promoting mindfulness, presence, and a sense of being in the moment.
Guided Meditation #
Specific Term #
Guided Meditation
Concept #
Meditation with verbal instructions
Explanation #
Guided meditation is a form of meditation that involves verbal instructions from a teacher or audio recording. These instructions can help guide the practitioner through relaxation techniques, visualization exercises, or mindfulness practices. Guided meditation is often used to promote stress reduction, focus, and emotional well-being.
Hatha Yoga #
Specific Term #
Hatha Yoga
Concept #
Physical practice of yoga
Explanation #
Hatha yoga is a branch of yoga that focuses on physical postures (asanas) and breathing techniques (pranayama). It is designed to balance the body and mind through a series of poses that promote strength, flexibility, and relaxation. Hatha yoga is a popular style of yoga that is suitable for practitioners of all levels.
Interoception #
Specific Term #
Interoception
Concept #
Awareness of internal body sensations
Explanation #
Interoception is the awareness of internal body sensations, such as heartbeat, breathing, and digestive processes. Developing interoceptive awareness through practices like yoga and meditation can help individuals tune into their bodies, regulate emotions, and make healthy choices. Interoception is an essential component of mindfulness and self-awareness.
Kundalini #
Specific Term #
Kundalini
Concept #
Primal energy at the base of the spine
Explanation #
Kundalini is believed to be a primal energy located at the base of the spine, represented as a coiled serpent. Practices such as yoga and meditation aim to awaken this energy and allow it to rise through the chakras, promoting spiritual awakening and transformation. Kundalini yoga is a specific style of yoga that focuses on activating and harnessing this energy.
Mindfulness #
Specific Term #
Mindfulness
Concept #
Awareness of the present moment
Explanation #
Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present and aware of the present moment without judgment. It involves paying attention to thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and the surrounding environment. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and yoga, can help reduce stress, improve focus, and promote emotional well-being.
Mind #
Body Connection:
Specific Term #
Mind-Body Connection
Concept #
Link between mental and physical health
Explanation #
The mind-body connection refers to the relationship between mental and physical health. Research has shown that mental states, such as stress and emotions, can impact physical health and vice versa. Practices like yoga, meditation, and mindfulness can help strengthen the mind-body connection and promote overall well-being.
Neuroplasticity #
Specific Term #
Neuroplasticity
Concept #
Brain's ability to reorganize and adapt
Explanation #
Neuroplasticity is the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections in response to learning, experience, or injury. This adaptability allows the brain to change and rewire throughout life, supporting learning, memory, and recovery from brain damage. Yoga practices that challenge the brain can promote neuroplasticity and cognitive function.
Prana #
Specific Term #
Prana
Concept #
Life force energy
Explanation #
Prana is the life force energy that flows through the body and sustains life. In yoga philosophy, prana is believed to be present in the breath and is essential for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Practices such as pranayama (breath control) aim to cultivate and balance prana for optimal health and vitality.
Pranayama #
Specific Term #
Pranayama
Concept #
Breath control practices
Explanation #
Pranayama is the practice of breath control in yoga. It involves conscious regulation of the breath through specific techniques, such as deep breathing, alternate nostril breathing, and breath retention. Pranayama practices are designed to cultivate prana (life force energy), calm the mind, and promote physical and mental well-being.
Prefrontal Cortex #
Specific Term #
Prefrontal Cortex
Concept #
Brain region responsible for executive function
Explanation #
The prefrontal cortex is a region of the brain located behind the forehead that is responsible for executive function, decision-making, and impulse control. This brain region plays a critical role in goal-directed behavior and self-regulation. Practices like yoga and meditation can support prefrontal cortex function by improving focus, attention, and emotional regulation.
Savasana #
Specific Term #
Savasana
Concept #
Corpse pose for relaxation
Explanation #
Savasana, also known as Corpse Pose, is a relaxation posture practiced at the end of a yoga session. It involves lying flat on the back with the arms and legs extended, allowing the body to rest and the mind to relax. Savasana is a time for deep relaxation, integration of the practice, and a sense of calm and rejuvenation.
Self #
Compassion:
Specific Term #
Self-Compassion
Concept #
Kindness and understanding towards oneself
Explanation #
Self-compassion is the practice of treating oneself with kindness, understanding, and acceptance, particularly in times of struggle or difficulty. Cultivating self-compassion through practices like yoga and meditation can help reduce self-criticism, promote emotional resilience, and enhance overall well-being. Self-compassion involves being gentle and supportive towards oneself, just as one would towards a friend in need.
Stress Response #
Specific Term #
Stress Response
Concept #
Physiological reaction to stress
Explanation #
The stress response is the body's natural reaction to a perceived threat or challenge. This response triggers a cascade of physiological changes, such as increased heart rate, rapid breathing, and the release of stress hormones like cortisol. Chronic stress can have negative effects on overall health and well-being. Practices like yoga, meditation, and mindfulness can help regulate the stress response and promote relaxation and resilience.
Subtle Body #
Specific Term #
Subtle Body
Concept #
Energetic body in yoga philosophy
Explanation #
The subtle body is an energetic body that is believed to exist alongside the physical body in yoga philosophy. It includes the chakras, nadis (energy channels), and prana (life force energy). Practices like yoga and meditation work on the subtle body to balance and harmonize the flow of energy, promoting physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
Ujjayi Breath #
Specific Term #
Ujjayi Breath
Concept #
Victorious breath technique
Explanation #
Ujjayi breath is a breathing technique used in yoga that involves constricting the back of the throat to create a whispering sound during inhalation and exhalation. This audible breath helps to regulate the flow of air, deepen the breath, and focus the mind. Ujjayi breath is commonly used in yoga practice to promote relaxation, concentration, and mindfulness.
Vinyasa #
Specific Term #
Vinyasa
Concept #
Flowing sequence of yoga poses
Explanation #
Vinyasa refers to a style of yoga that involves linking breath with movement in a flowing sequence of poses. Each movement is synchronized with either an inhalation or exhalation, creating a dynamic and continuous flow. Vinyasa practice can help build strength, flexibility, and focus, while also promoting mindfulness and breath awareness.
Yoga Nidra #
Specific Term #
Yoga Nidra
Concept #
Yogic sleep for deep relaxation
Explanation #
Yoga Nidra, or yogic sleep, is a guided meditation and relaxation practice that induces a state of deep relaxation and conscious sleep. During Yoga Nidra, practitioners lie down in a comfortable position and follow verbal instructions to relax the body, calm the mind, and enter a state of deep rest. This practice is known for its rejuvenating effects on the body and mind, promoting stress relief and inner peace.
Zen Meditation #
Specific Term #
Zen Meditation
Concept #
Buddhist meditation practice
Explanation #
Zen Meditation is a form of Buddhist meditation that emphasizes mindfulness, awareness, and presence in the moment. Practitioners typically sit in a cross-legged position and focus on the breath or a specific object of meditation. Zen meditation is known for its simplicity and directness, cultivating a sense of inner peace, clarity, and insight.