# yoga

/ˈjoʊɡə/ (US) · /jˈəʊɡɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/yoga
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. physical exercise

noun · CEFR A2

a popular way of exercising that involves stretching your body into different positions to become stronger and more relaxed.

For teachers: a system of physical postures and breathing techniques practiced to promote flexibility, strength, and mental well-being.

- She does yoga every morning to help with her back pain.
- Many people practice yoga to counteract the physical strain of sitting at a desk all day.

### 2. spiritual discipline

noun · CEFR B2 · Academic

a set of ancient Hindu and Buddhist traditions used to train the mind and spirit.

For teachers: any of several traditional Hindu or Buddhist disciplines aimed at achieving spiritual insight and tranquility through meditation.

- The monk spent years studying the deeper spiritual aspects of yoga.
- In its traditional context, yoga is a comprehensive philosophical system rather than a mere sequence of physical movements.

## Examples

- I practice yoga every morning to stretch my muscles.
- The local community center offers a beginner yoga class every Tuesday evening for people looking to improve their balance.
- While many Western practitioners view yoga primarily as a physical fitness regimen, its traditional roots emphasize the integration of mind, body, and spirit through disciplined movement and meditation.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.