Ajna

The third eye chakra, located between the eyebrows, associated with intuition, insight, and higher consciousness.


Akasha tattva

In yogic philosophy, Ajna (also spelled Ājñā) refers to the sixth chakra, commonly known as the “third eye” chakra. The term “Ajna” comes from the Sanskrit root word meaning “command” or “perceive.” This chakra is associated with intuition, insight, and higher wisdom.


Anand

Meaning

These sacred words are from guru amar das, the third guru of the Sikhs. 
I am in bliss, O my Mother, for I have found my true guru. I have found my true guru with intuitive ease and my mind resonates with the music of delight. Precious melodies and heavenly harmonies have come to sing the shabad. Those who sing shabad, The Lord dwells within their minds. Says Nanak: I am in ecstasy because I have found my guru.

Effect

It means bliss, delight.
But it is not delight in the way we are used to.
Anand is a state of grace that comes when every word you say and every action you perform sustains the light and journey of your soul.

 

 

 


Ananda

In yogic philosophy, Ananda is a Sanskrit term that means “bliss” or “divine joy.” It represents a state of profound happiness, contentment, and spiritual fulfillment that goes beyond ordinary pleasures and material satisfaction. Ananda is considered a fundamental aspect of the true nature of the self (Atman) and the ultimate goal of many yogic practices.


Ang Sang Wahe Guru

Transliteration

Ang Sang

Wahe Guru

Meaning

God is in every cell of my being

Effect

Ang is “a part”. Sang is “each” or “in each”. Wahe is “The indescribable ecstasy of infinite being”. Guru is “The wisdom that transforms mind, emotion and essence”. The complete phrase means, “The infinite being, God, is within me and vibrates in every molecule and cell of my being.”

This mantra expresses universal truth. Repeating it creates a thought, which gradually guides the psyche to adjust. It reconnects every projection of the psyche, every separate part of the body and synchronizes the finite sense to the Infinite Oneness. This act of uniting the separate parts is an essential act of healing. Under attack, under war, under the pressure of fear, this meditation keeps us united, aware and ready to act. It brings inner peace that comes from the touch of the spirit. Gurucharan Singh


Apana Vayu

Apana Vayu is a term from yogic and Ayurvedic traditions referring to one of the five major vital airs (Vayus) that govern various physiological functions in the body. In Sanskrit, “Apana” means “downward” or “away,” and “Vayu” means “wind” or “air.” Therefore, Apana Vayu is the vital force responsible for downward and outward movement in the body.


Apas tattva

In yogic philosophy and the broader context of Ayurveda and Indian metaphysics, Apas Tattva (also spelled Apas Tatva or Aapas Tattva) refers to the water element. The term “Apas” means “water” in Sanskrit, and “Tattva” means “principle” or “element.” Apas Tattva is one of the five great elements (Pancha Mahabhutas) that compose the material world.


Aradhana

In yogic and spiritual contexts, Aradhana is a Sanskrit term that refers to devotion, worship, or the practice of spiritual disciplines aimed at realizing the divine or achieving a specific spiritual goal. It encompasses a broad range of practices that are performed with sincerity, dedication, and reverence.


Ardas Bhaee

Transliteration

Ardas Bhaee Amar Das Guru,

Amar Das Guru, Ardas Bhaee

Ram Das Guru, Ram Das Guru,

Ram Das Guru, Sachee Sahee

Meaning

In this mantra you pray (say an ardas) to Guru Amar Das and ask Guru Ram Das to confirm your prayer.

Effect

This mantra ensures that all needs are met and guarantees that prayer is heard. It frees you from difficult situations. Helps to unblock obstacles on the spiritual path.


Asana

A physical posture or pose in yoga, designed to strengthen and align the body.


Ascetic Practices

Ascetic practices involve severe self-discipline and renunciation of all forms of indulgence or comfort as a way to achieve a higher state of being. Some examples of ascetic practices include: prolonged fasting, extreme physical postures (holding a pose for a very long time), rigorous pranayama techniques, prolonged meditation in uncomfortable positions, self-imposed isolation, and complete abstinence from worldly pleasures.


Ashtang Mantra

Ashtang Mantra, in yogic and spiritual practices, refers to a specific type of mantra that encompasses eight key sounds or aspects, also known as “limbs” or beats. These mantras are designed to align the practitioner with higher states of consciousness and promote holistic well-being by balancing the mind, body, and spirit. The rhythm of the Kundalini naturally responds to the ashtang beat, with each part covering the spectrum of projected qualities of consciousness. Examples include “Ek Ong Kar Sat Naam Siri Wahe Guru” and “Ra Ma Da Sa Sa Say So Hung,” which help cultivate deeper focus, inner peace, and spiritual growth.


Atman

In yogic philosophy, Atman is a Sanskrit term that refers to the inner self or soul, considered the true essence of an individual, distinct from the physical body and mind. The concept of Atman is central to many Indian spiritual traditions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. It is the essential Self, present within all creatures, and represents pure consciousness. The mind merely reflects this consciousness, and thus appears to be conscious.


Ayurveda

Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine that originated in India over 5,000 years ago. The term “Ayurveda” is derived from the Sanskrit words “Ayur,” meaning life, and “Veda,” meaning knowledge or science. Together, Ayurveda translates to “the science of life” or “the knowledge of longevity.”


Bandha

An internal lock or contraction used in yoga to control and direct the flow of prana.


Bear Grip

Effects of Bear Grip:

Bear Grip, sometimes called Ganesha Mudra, is a powerful mudra that stimulates the heart and enhances concentration. It connects you to your Heart Chakra (Anahata Chakra), the center of love, compassion, and empathy. This mudra promotes inner peace, emotional balance, and deeper connections with yourself and others.

How to do Bear Grip:

  1. Place the left palm facing out from the chest with the thumb down. Place the palm of the right hand facing the chest. 
  2. Bring the fingers together and curl the fingers of both hands so the hands form a fist.
  3. Place this mudra at the chest level

Variations: Sometimes this mudra is placed at the Navel Center (Manipura Chakra) or above the head. 

Illustration of hands on beargripPosture for Bear Grip