Yoga class descriptions sometimes use familiar words in a particular way. A “flow” describes how movements connect; a “prop” is a piece of equipment. Knowing the difference can make a timetable or a teacher’s explanation easier to follow.
This short reference explains ten terms you may encounter. The meaning in a particular class still depends on the teacher’s explanation. If a word leaves you unsure what to do, ask rather than copying someone else’s movement.
1. Alignment
Alignment describes how parts of the body are positioned in relation to one another during a posture. A teacher might draw attention to the position of a foot, knee or shoulder. The word does not mean that every person should create an identical shape. Ask what the instruction means for the position you are practising.
2. Breathwork
Breathwork is a broad label for practices that bring attention to breathing or deliberately change its pattern. Different sessions can use different approaches. A mention of breathwork does not tell you which technique will be included, so ask the teacher about the session rather than trying a technique from the label alone.
3. Cue
A cue is a short instruction intended to guide attention or movement. It might describe a direction, a body part or a way to approach the next step. If the wording is unclear, ask for it to be explained another way. Understanding the instruction matters more than remembering the phrase.
4. Flow
Flow commonly refers to linking movements or postures together, often with attention to breathing. The term alone does not establish speed. A slow-flow class and a faster flowing session may involve very different amounts of time between movements. Read the full class description for that detail.
5. Hold
To hold a posture means to remain in it for a period rather than moving straight to the next one. The duration and the teacher’s instructions vary between practices. The word is not an instruction to continue through pain or to match another person’s time.
6. Posture
A posture is a position used in the practice. You may also hear it called a pose. A posture name identifies the position being discussed; it does not tell you which version or amount of movement is appropriate for you.
7. Prop
A prop is equipment used during practice, such as a block, strap or bolster. Its purpose depends on the exercise and the way it is arranged. For practical questions about using equipment, read YogaLife’s class guide and ask the teacher what the session involves.
8. Sequence
A sequence is an ordered series of postures or movements. It may be repeated, or it may change during a class. Knowing individual posture names is different from knowing their order in a particular sequence.
9. Transition
A transition is the movement between positions. It can require its own explanation, even when the starting and finishing postures are familiar. Ask how the teacher wants you to move between them if that part is unclear.
10. Variation
A variation is another way of approaching a posture or movement. It might change the position, range or use of equipment. It is not automatically easier or harder in every respect. The teacher can explain the purpose of an option and how it fits into the session.
Use the words to ask a clearer question
You do not need to memorise a glossary before asking about a class. A question such as “Does this session spend time explaining transitions?” gives the team something specific to answer. For questions about experience labels, see what all levels means on a yoga timetable.
Use the class guide to explore formats, then contact YogaLife if a description includes a word you would like explained. Class names and vocabulary are useful starting points, but the details of the particular session matter.
