M and N Yoga Glossary – Mala and Neuroplasticity
This chapter of the Yoga Nest Glossary combines the letters M and N. Each term is presented with a factual definition, followed by a lighter, more accessible Yoga Nest version.
🔠 Letter M
Mobility
Definition: The ability of a joint or set of joints to move with amplitude, control and coordination. It depends on joint structures, soft tissues and nervous system adaptation.
Yoga Nest version: Mobility isn’t about going further and further. It’s about being able to move with ease, even on days when the body is less available, and maintaining these amplitudes as the years go by.
Conscious movement
Definition: A way of moving that integrates attention, breathing and internal perception. It is based on somatic principles and promotes better motor organization.
Yoga Nest version: Move knowing you’re moving, rather than executing automatically.
Myofascia
Definition: Muscles and the fascias that surround and connect them. The myofascial system participates in the transmission of forces and the overall organization of movement.
Yoga Nest version: A good reason to understand – and feel – that everything is much more connected than it seems.
Mantra
Definition: A word, phrase or sound intentionally repeated to sustain concentration and stabilize attention. The continuous repetition of a mantra is a specific practice known as Japa. A mala, a traditional pearl necklace, can be used to accompany and punctuate this repetition.
Yoga Nest version: A simple repetition that helps attention to remain stable. The mala, unrolled bead by bead, makes the practice more grounded.
Meditation
Definition: In the classical yogic tradition, meditation corresponds to dhyana (7th pillar), a state of continuous attention. It is preceded by dharana (6th pillar), which designates concentration directed towards a precise object. Focusing attention on the breath or a focal point is therefore first and foremost concentration. Meditation emerges when this attention becomes stable and fluid, with less voluntary effort.
Yoga Nest version: Meditation isn’t just a matter of fixing your attention. It appears when effort diminishes and attention is maintained on its own.
Mula Bandha
Definition: Subtle engagement of the pelvic floor used in certain yoga practices to support stability and energy circulation.
Yoga Nest version: A subtle activation – even if we translate bandha as “lock” – that we can’t see, but quickly feel when it’s missing.
Mandala
Definition: A symbolic circular representation used in certain meditative traditions, the mandala is often highly artistic. It expresses an organization around a center.
Yoga Nest version: A visual reminder that not everything revolves around the outside.
Manipura
Definition: Manipura chakra, symbolically located at the solar plexus in the yogic tradition. Manipura is associated with fire energy, transformation and the ability to act.
Yoga Nest version: The chakra of the abdominal center, often said to be linked to willpower and the way you take your place.
Mental
Definition: All cognitive, emotional and attentional processes. In yoga, it is observed rather than fought.
Yoga Nest version: It’s not a question of silencing it, but of no longer letting it run everything.
Musculoskeletal
Definition: System comprising bones, joints, muscles and connective tissue. It enables movement, postural maintenance and adaptation to mechanical stress.
Yoga Nest version: The structure that lets you move, carry, sit… and start again.
🔠 Letter N
Vagus nerve
Definition: Major cranial nerve involved in regulation of the parasympathetic system. It influences heart rate, respiration and digestion. Its activity is closely linked to diaphragm movement and the quality of exhalation.
Yoga Nest version: The one who appreciates full breathing and a freely moving diaphragm even more than you do.
Neuroplasticity
Definition: The ability of the nervous system to change in response to experience, learning and repetition.
Yoga Nest version: Proof that your body and brain are still learning, at any age.
Neuroception
Definition: Concept introduced by Stephen Porges referring to the unconscious capacity of the nervous system to detect safety or threat in the environment.
Yoga Nest version: That which explains why you feel comfortable somewhere, without always knowing why.
Nadi
Definition: energy channels described in the yogic tradition through which prana flows. Ancient texts mention up to 72,000 nadis. Of these, three are considered principal: Sushumna, Ida and Pingala. This symbolic cartography presents parallels with the energy systems described in traditional Chinese medicine, notably the meridians.
Yoga Nest version: An ancient way of representing internal flows, with a logic specific to its tradition.
Nadi Shodhana
Definition: Alternating breathing technique designed to balance inhalation and exhalation through the right and left nostrils. One of the best-known pranayamas.
Yoga Nest version: Structured breathing that invites you to slow down naturally. Practice without moderation!
Neck
Definition: Posterior region of the neck involved in posture, head orientation and relation to screens. It supports the weight of the head and is frequently subjected to prolonged strain.
Yoga Nest version: An area that many feel intensely, especially after several hours with head tilted forward and shoulders hunched over – you know what I mean? In particular, there’s a lot of talk about“text neck syndrome“.
Neti
Definition: Nasal cleansing technique using warm salt water, often performed with a special pot. It is one of the traditional kriyas.
Yoga Nest version: Simple, precise, and surprisingly effective when done correctly.
Navasana
Definition: Seated balance posture involving hip flexors, abdominals and trunk stability.
Yoga Nest version: A posture that quickly reveals the center’s level of commitment. Navasana is rarely our favourite posture…
To learn more
If you’d like to delve deeper into some of the topics covered in letters M and N, here are some useful resources:
Sources and references cited
- Neuroception, vagus nerve: Stephen W. Porges, The Polyvagal Theory. Publisher’s page
- Myofascia, myofascial lines: Thomas W. Myers, Anatomy Trains. Official website
- Conscious movement: Moshe Feldenkrais, Awareness Through Movement. Book page
- Meditation, dharana, dhyana: Patanjali, Yoga Sutra. Commentary and translation by Sri Swami Satchidananda. Presentation and resources
- Neti, Nadi Shodhana, hatha yoga practices: Swami Satyananda Saraswati, Asana Pranayama Mudra Bandha (Bihar School of Yoga). Presentation
- Somatic approaches: Thomas Hanna, Somatics. Publisher’s page
Going deeper into certain themes
- Explore other Yoga Nest blog posts
- Yoga and practice accessories
- Comfortable men’s clothing for free movement
