Teaching Yoga with Sanskrit: Honoring the Tradition Beyond Poses

When we step into a yoga class today, it’s common to hear “Downward Dog” instead of Adho Mukha Svanasana, or “Triangle Pose” instead of Trikonasana. Using English does make yoga more accessible, but when we strip Sanskrit away completely, something essential is lost.

Last week we discussed about how Sanskrit language is and its structure. We also looked at how the sounds in sanskrit are so interesting. You can read the article here.

Let’s explore why teaching yoga with Sanskrit matters and how even learning a little can transform your teaching.

Sanskrit: The Mantric Language of Yoga

Sanskrit is not just an old Indian language. It is a mantric language - each sound is designed with vibration, rhythm, and resonance that influence the mind and body.

• Words like Prana (life force), Dhyana (meditation), and Om don’t just describe; they carry an energetic presence.

• Every asana name has meaning.

  • Trikonasana (Triangle Pose) symbolises stability and harmony.

  • Vrikshasana (Tree Pose) reminds us of being rooted yet reaching higher.

When we reduce asana names to English alone, we risk losing this deeper symbolic dimension.

Teaching Yoga with Sanskrit - Why Sanskrit Matters

Staying Rooted in Tradition

Sanskrit is a direct link to yoga’s origins - from the Vedas and Upanishads to the Yoga Sutras and Hatha Yoga Pradipika. Using it honours yoga as a spiritual and philosophical path, not just a physical practice.

Deepening Your Teaching

Asanas in Sanskrit invite imagery and meaning. Adho Mukha Svanasana is not just “downward dog”—it conveys humility, surrender, and grounding. Sanskrit allows you to teach beyond the shape of the pose.

Earning Respect and Trust

When you weave Sanskrit into your teaching, students sense authenticity. It shows that you value yoga’s roots, which builds respect and credibility in your classes.

Preserving Authenticity

Without Sanskrit, yoga risks being diluted into another exercise trend. Sanskrit keeps the sacred thread of authenticity intact, bridging ancient wisdom with modern practice.

Practical Ways to Weave Sanskrit into Your Classes

• Master common asana names. Learn correct pronunciation of staples like Tadasana, Vrikshasana, Shavasana, and Adho Mukha Svanasana.

• Blend Sanskrit with English. Say: “Tree Pose - Vrikshasana.” Over time, students will remember both.

• Teach meanings. Explain that Shavasana means “corpse pose,” symbolising letting go of ego.

• Introduce mantras. A short Om or a simple chant like Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu shifts the energy of the room.

• Practice call-and-response. Chanting together creates rhythm, unity, and shared vibration.

Closing Reflection: Beyond Poses, Into Tradition

Sanskrit is not about showcasing knowledge - it’s about honouring yoga’s true language and keeping its vibration alive.

Even introducing a few Sanskrit words can bring:

• Depth to your classes,

• Respect for tradition, and

• Authenticity your students can feel.

Next time you teach, try sprinkling in Sanskrit- notice how it transforms not only your students’ experience but also your own connection to the tradition.