Have you ever wondered why yoga poses have such unique and intriguing names in Sanskrit?
While it’s easy to stick with their English translations, understanding the Sanskrit names opens up a whole new dimension of meaning.
Each name tells a story — reflecting the pose’s symbolism, purpose, and connection to ancient traditions.
For many, yoga is more than just physical postures — it aims to embrace the depth and wisdom behind the practice.
By learning the Sanskrit names, you not only honor yoga’s roots but also gain a richer understanding of each asana’s essence.
In this guide, we’ll explore 9 popular yoga poses, decode their Sanskrit names, and reveal the hidden meanings that can elevate your practice to a deeper level.
1) Mountain Pose (Tadasana)
Let’s start with the foundation of many yoga practices: Mountain Pose, or Tadasana.
Perhaps not surprisingly, it’s one of the most often mispronounced names in yoga.
Why?
Because people simply don’t understand what it means.
In Sanskrit, “Tada” means mountain, and “Asana” means pose.
The name symbolizes strength, stability, and groundedness — qualities reflected in the posture itself.
Tadasana might look simple, but it’s an active pose that encourages alignment, balance, and awareness. Standing tall with feet together, shoulders relaxed, and spine lengthened, you embody the steadiness of a mountain.
This pose is often used as a starting or resting posture, reminding practitioners of the importance of a solid foundation—both physically and mentally.
2) Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana)
Perhaps one of the most recognized yoga poses worldwide, Downward-Facing Dog, is known in Sanskrit as Adho Mukha Svanasana.
Breaking it down:
- “Adho” means downward,
- “Mukha” means face,
- “Svana” means dog, and
- “Asana” means pose.
This name describes the pose’s resemblance to a dog stretching forward with its head down and hips raised.
This pose is a cornerstone of many yoga sequences, offering a full-body stretch while strengthening the arms, shoulders, and legs.
Symbolically, it represents renewal and surrender. Therefore, during this pose, you should be motivated t0 go of stress and reconnect with your breath.
3) Warrior Pose I (Virabhadrasana I)
Warrior Pose I, or Virabhadrasana I, is a powerful stance named after the mythical warrior Virabhadra, a creation of the Hindu god Shiva.
In Sanskrit, “Vira” means hero or warrior, and “Bhadra” means friend or auspicious.
This pose celebrates strength, courage, and determination.
With one foot lunged forward, arms raised overhead, and chest open, this pose invokes a sense of empowerment. It’s a reminder that yoga isn’t just about flexibility—it’s also about building resilience and inner strength.
Fun fact: Warrior poses are among the few yoga postures named after a mythological figure rather than natural elements or animals.
4) Child’s Pose (Balasana)
Child’s Pose, or Balasana, offers a moment of rest and introspection.
In Sanskrit, “Bala” means child, reflecting the pose’s simplicity and innocence. It involves kneeling on the mat, lowering the torso over the thighs, and resting the forehead on the ground.
Balasana is often used as a restorative posture during practice. It allows practitioners to pause, reconnect with their breath, and release tension.
The pose also symbolizes humility and surrender, encouraging a mindset of openness and acceptance.
And guess what?
These qualities resonate deeply in both yoga and life.
5) Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana)
A pose of strength and flexibility, Cobra Pose, is known in Sanskrit as Bhujangasana.
“Bhujanga” means snake or serpent, and “Asana” means pose. This posture mimics the arching movement of a cobra raising its head.
In yoga philosophy, the serpent symbolizes transformation and awakening—qualities associated with this backbend. Bhujangasana stretches the spine, opens the chest, and strengthens the core, promoting energy flow throughout the body.
For me, Cobra Pose is a favorite because it embodies both grace and power, serving as a reminder to stay open and resilient even during challenging times.
6) Tree Pose (Vrikshasana)
Tree Pose, or Vrikshasana, is a graceful posture that embodies balance and growth.
In Sanskrit, “Vriksha” means tree. Like a tree rooted firmly in the ground while reaching for the sky, this pose symbolizes stability and expansion.
Standing on one leg with the other foot placed on the inner thigh or calf, Tree Pose encourages focus and mindfulness. It’s a chance to cultivate inner strength while finding harmony between effort and ease.
Did you know? The practice of balancing postures like Tree Pose enhances proprioception — the body’s awareness of its position in space.
7) Corpse Pose (Savasana)
Corpse Pose, or Savasana, is the ultimate relaxation posture.
In Sanskrit, “Sava” means corpse, and “Asana” means pose.
While the name might sound somber, it symbolizes complete surrender and letting go, much like a corpse rests without resistance.
Often practiced at the end of a yoga session, Savasana allows the body and mind to absorb the benefits of the practice. Lying flat on your back with arms at your sides, you release all tension and enter a state of deep relaxation.
This pose reminds us that rest is as vital as effort, encouraging balance in our lives.
8) Triangle Pose (Trikonasana)
Triangle Pose, or Trikonasana, combines strength, stretch, and stability.
In Sanskrit, “Trikona” means triangle, and “Asana” means pose.
The name reflects the triangular shapes formed by the body in this posture.
With one foot extended forward, the other angled back, and one arm reaching toward the sky, Trikonasana opens the chest and stretches the legs, hips, and spine.
This pose isn’t just about physical alignment — it also represents balance between mind, body, and spirit.
Therefore, practicing it can create a sense of equilibrium, even amid life’s challenges.
9) Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana)
Seated Forward Bend, or Paschimottanasana, is a calming pose that promotes introspection and flexibility.
“Paschima” means west and refers to the back side of the body.
“Uttana,” on the other hand, means intense stretch.
This pose involves sitting with legs extended forward and folding the torso over the thighs.
Paschimottanasana stretches the hamstrings, spine, and lower back while encouraging a deep connection with the breath.
Symbolically, it’s a pose of surrender and patience, teaching us to move toward our goals gently and persistently.
Conclusion: Connecting to the roots of yoga
Yoga is more than a series of physical movements — it’s a bridge that connects us to ancient wisdom, mindfulness, and self-awareness.
Learning the Sanskrit names of yoga poses is a powerful way to deepen that connection.
Each name carries a story, a purpose, and a piece of yoga’s rich heritage.
By understanding the meanings behind these names, you’re not just improving your practice — you’re honoring the profound legacy of yoga.
Poses like Tadasana remind us to stand tall and grounded, while Bhujangasana invites us to embrace transformation with strength and grace.
So, the next time you step onto your mat, take a moment to reflect on the language of yoga.
Let it guide your movements, inspire your practice, and remind you of the timeless wisdom it represents.
Yoga isn’t just what happens on the mat — it’s about how we carry its teachings into our daily lives. Embrace the depth, connect with the roots, and let each asana guide you toward a path of mindfulness and inner peace. Namaste.
