Definition

1. Noun:
   • A system of physical, mental, and spiritual practices or disciplines: "Yoga" refers to a holistic discipline originating in ancient India, aimed at integrating body, mind, and spirit. It involves postures, breathing techniques, and meditation.
   • A Hindu philosophical and ascetic discipline: More specifically, "yoga" denotes a traditional Hindu spiritual and ascetic discipline, a path to achieving a state of perfect spiritual insight and tranquility.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • She practices yoga every morning to improve her flexibility and reduce stress.
  • The philosophy of yoga teaches the union of the individual self with the universal spirit.

Advanced Usage

• "the yoga of...": This phrase is used to describe a particular path, school, or approach within the broader yoga tradition.
  • He studies the yoga of knowledge, focusing on wisdom and discernment.

Variants and Related Words

• Yogic (adj): Relating to or characteristic of yoga.
  • She maintained a yogic lifestyle, emphasizing mindfulness and non-violence.
• Yogi/Yogini (n): A male/female practitioner of yoga, often one who is highly adept or ascetic.
  • The yogi could meditate for hours without moving.

Synonyms

• Discipline: A system of rules or a field of study.
• Practice: The actual application or exercise of a skill.
• Asceticism: Severe self-discipline and avoidance of indulgence, often for spiritual reasons.

Related Phrases

• "to do yoga": The common phrase for engaging in the physical exercises of yoga.
  • I do yoga at the local studio three times a week.
• "yoga class": A session or course where yoga is taught and practiced.
  • Her yoga class starts at 7 PM.

Related Idioms

• "Find your inner peace through yoga": A common expression highlighting yoga's goal of mental and spiritual calm.
  • After a hectic week, I need to find my inner peace through yoga.

Noun

1. a system of exercises practiced as part of the Hindu discipline to promote control of the body and mind
2. Hindu discipline aimed at training the consciousness for a state of perfect spiritual insight and tranquility that is achieved through the three paths of actions and knowledge and devotion