In today’s yoga landscape, Sanskrit is becoming something of a rarity. As the practice continues to evolve under the influence of Western trends, many classes and brands have opted to change or even totally rebrand traditional poses. It’s not uncommon to see creative offerings like goat yoga, HIIT-yoga hybrids, or signature flows named after the studio itself. While these innovations are valid ways of introducing more people to the mat, offering accessibility, fun and fitness, there’s something uniquely powerful about keeping Sanskrit alive in the practice.
As a teacher, I am a big advocate for using Sanskrit in classes. Not only does it preserve the language that carries the essence of yoga’s origins, but it also offers a universal thread that connects practitioners across the world. Calling poses by their Sanskrit names creates a shared vocabulary, removing language barriers and fostering a sense of unity.
Why Is Sanskrit Fading from Classes?
One reason Sanskrit is often left out is the fear of mispronunciation. Many teachers and students worry about saying something incorrectly or stumbling over the names. This is understandable, language learning can feel intimidating. However, yoga itself is a practice of growth and humility. It’s natural to make mistakes along the way. No one expects flawless pronunciation from the start. In fact, embracing the learning process whether you fumble a word or mix up a count, is part of the journey.
Another reason teachers sometimes avoid Sanskrit is the desire to make classes more marketable or accessible. Using English names may feel more familiar and less intimidating to new students. But with gentle integration, Sanskrit doesn’t need to be alienating, it can be an enriching addition that expands a student’s knowledge and deepens their connection to the roots of yoga.
The Value of Keeping Sanskrit Alive
Including Sanskrit in classes offers a beautiful opportunity for students to learn beyond the physical practice. When we share the traditional names of poses, we open the door to their deeper meanings. For example, Trikonasana isn’t just “Triangle Pose” the word tri means “three,” and kona means “angle.” Understanding these meanings creates a more intentional relationship with the shapes we move through.
As teachers, using Sanskrit also encourages us to continue evolving. It invites us to remain students of the practice, refining our pronunciation and expanding our understanding of yoga’s linguistic heritage.
A Shared Language, a Shared Respect
One of the most beautiful aspects of Sanskrit is its universality. Whether you’re practicing in Paris, Mumbai, or London, the same Sanskrit names create a common language. This continuity offers a sense of belonging and familiarity, no matter where you unroll your mat. More importantly, it honors the Indian culture from which the practice came, a culture deeply rooted in philosophy, devotion, and tradition.
Embrace It, Imperfections and All
If you’re hesitant to use Sanskrit in your practice or teaching, consider starting small. Introduce a few key terms into your sequences, such as Tadasana (Mountain Pose) or Chaturanga Dandasana (Four-Limbed Staff Pose). Don’t worry about perfect pronunciation, focus on intention and respect. Over time, you’ll grow more comfortable, and so will your students.
Yoga is a lifelong practice of exploration. The language we use to guide it matters. By keeping Sanskrit alive, we not only deepen our own connection to yoga but also help preserve a piece of its heritage, allowing it to continue flowing through future generations one asana at a time.
Do you use Sanskrit in your practice or teaching? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!