Have you ever felt a little embarrassed pronouncing yoga pose names in class?
With yoga’s roots in Sanskrit (an ancient and beautifully complex language) mispronunciations are incredibly common. Even experienced yogis stumble over pose names, and guess what?
That’s totally okay!
The good news is that learning the correct pronunciation not only boosts confidence but also deepens your connection to the practice.
I’ve been there myself, hesitant to call out a pose during my home practice because I wasn’t sure how to say it. But once I learned, I felt more grounded, as if I was truly honoring the tradition of yoga.
Today, I’ll reveal some of the most commonly mispronounced yoga pose names and their correct pronunciations.
1) Savasana (Shah-VAH-sah-nah) – Not “Sha-vah-NAA”
This one was my personal nemesis — at least when it came to saying it right.
I’ve Googled it a thousand times to finally get it right: it’s Shah-VAH-sah-nah, with the emphasis on the second syllable, not “sha-vah-NAA,” as so many of us mistakenly say.
Savasana, also known as “Corpse Pose,” is the beautiful, quiet ending to most yoga classes.
But here’s the thing: while it looks simple—just lying on your mat—it’s one of the hardest poses for both body and mind.
The correct pronunciation honors its calming essence, reminding us to fully let go, embrace stillness, and surrender to the moment.
It’s more than just rest — it’s where you integrate everything you’ve done in your practice.
2) Tadasana (Tah-DAH-sah-nah) – Not “Tad-ah-SAH-nah”
Ever wondered how something as simple as standing tall can feel so profound?
That’s the magic of Tadasana, or “Mountain Pose.”
Yet, despite its simplicity, it’s frequently mispronounced. Many people place the stress on the last syllable, saying “Tad-ah-SAH-nah.”
Here’s the correction: it’s Tah-DAH-sah-nah, with emphasis on the second syllable.
This foundational pose is the starting point for many standing sequences, and its name reflects strength, stability, and presence.
So, the next time you stand tall on your mat, pronounce it confidently — just as confidently as you embody the pose.
3) Chaturanga Dandasana (Chaht-uh-RAHN-gah Dan-DAH-sah-nah)
Let’s be real — Chaturanga Dandasana is one of the trickiest names in yoga to pronounce. But that’s not surprising. With its tongue-twisting length and unfamiliar sounds, it often turns into “cha-too-RAN-ga” or “cha-tu-RANGA” in class.
The correct pronunciation is Chaht-uh-RAHN-gah Dan-DAH-sah-nah. Break it down into syllables, and it becomes much easier to say:
- Chaht-uh-RAHN-gah (four-limbed staff)
- Dan-DAH-sah-nah (pose)
Feeling frustrated by this?
Don’t!
Even seasoned practitioners mix this one up. I remember struggling to pronounce it myself when I started yoga, and for weeks, I avoided saying it out loud.
But here’s the thing: practice makes progress. The more you say it, the more natural it will feel.
4) Vrksasana (Vrik-SHAH-sah-nah)
Did you know that in the pose “Tree Pose,” there’s a silent letter most people overlook?
It’s the “r” at the beginning of Vrksasana.
Many yogis say “Vrik-sah-SAH-nah,” but the correct pronunciation is Vrik-SHAH-sah-nah, with the “r” rolled softly and emphasis on “SHAH.”
It might seem counter-intuitive, but Sanskrit often flows differently from English.
Words that appear long or difficult can actually sound soft and rhythmic when pronounced correctly.
Vrksasana teaches us balance, stability, and patience — so why not give it the respect it deserves with the right pronunciation?
After all, learning the small details is part of deepening your practice.
5) Utkatasana (OOT-kah-TAH-sah-nah)
Why would anyone call this pose “Chair Pose” when you’re hovering above a chair-like position?
It’s a question many beginners ask, and it’s one of those little mysteries that makes yoga so intriguing.
The name “Utkatasana” is often pronounced incorrectly as “Utkah-TAS-ah-nah” or “OOT-kah-TAZ-nah.”
The correct way to say it is OOT-kah-TAH-sah-nah, with the stress on “TAH.”
In Sanskrit, “utkata” means intense, fierce, or powerful, which perfectly describes the work your legs, core, and focus do in this pose.
While you may not love holding it for long, remember: the intensity builds both physical and mental strength.
6) Bhujangasana (Boo-jahn-GAH-sah-nah)
Because Cobra Pose is my favorite, I’ll admit I have a soft spot for this one.
It’s called Boo-jahn-GAH-sah-nah (with emphasis on the “GAH”) but I’ve heard every variation imaginable, from “Boo-JAN-ga-nah” to “Boo-jang-SA-nah.”
Trust me, I’ve been there too!
Bhujangasana is more than just a backend — it’s a pose that feels both strong and freeing. There’s something empowering about lifting your chest, opening your heart, and letting the tension melt away after a long day.
As someone who spends hours hunched over a desk, this pose has literally saved my posture and energy.
7) Supta Baddha Konasana (SOOP-tah BAH-dah Ko-NAH-sah-nah)
Ever struggled to say this pose without fumbling?
You’re not alone.
Supta Baddha Konasana, or “Reclining Bound Angle Pose,” is one of those mouthfuls that even experienced yogis find tricky.
Most people incorrectly say “SUP-tah BADD-ha KON-ah-sa-nah,” stressing the wrong syllables.
The correct pronunciation is SOOP-tah BAH-dah Ko-NAH-sah-nah, with the emphasis flowing evenly.
This restorative pose is incredibly calming, and perfect for deep breathing and relaxation.
Think of it as a gentle reminder that even when things seem complicated (like its name!), there’s a way to slow down, simplify, and find ease.
8) Sukhasana (Soo-KAH-sah-nah): The simplest, yet most profound
This one’s the final pose I struggled with personally — and ironically, it’s the simplest of them all.
Sukhasana, pronounced Soo-KAH-sah-nah, means “Easy Pose” or “Comfortable Pose,” and it’s the seated posture many of us naturally fall into when starting a meditation or breathing practice.
Yet, for the longest time, I stumbled over the name. Was it “sook-HAS-anah”? Or “soo-KAH-suh-nah”?
The confusion was real!
But here’s what I realized: Sukhasana’s beauty lies in its simplicity.
It’s not about being perfect — it’s about settling into yourself, finding comfort, and letting your breath guide you.
In many ways, this pose reminds me that the simplest things in life often hold the most power. Sukhasana is where I reconnect with stillness, clear my mind, and simply “be.”
Sometimes, the easiest poses and their names are the ones that teach us the deepest lessons
Conclusion: Your practice, your pronunciation
Yoga isn’t about perfection, and that applies to pronunciation too. It’s okay to stumble as you learn these ancient pose names—what matters is your intention and respect for the practice.
Quick tips for mastering yoga pose names:
- Break them down into syllables: Saying them slowly helps them stick.
- Practice out loud: Repetition is key!
- Focus on learning one new name per class: Over time, it will become second nature.
And remember, you’re not alone on this journey.
Even experienced teachers once struggled with Chaturanga Dandasana or Bhujangasana.
The beauty of yoga lies in showing up, learning, and growing — both on and off the mat.
