Yoga glossary K and L – Kirtan and Lymphs
This chapter of the Yoga Nest Glossary combines the letters K and L. Each term is presented with a factual definition, followed by a lighter Yoga Nest version. The aim is to help you understand notions that are useful for your practice, your body’s comfort and your everyday life.
🔠 Letter K
Kalimba
Definition: A slatted musical instrument of African origin, also known as a thumb piano. It produces soft, repetitive sounds, often used for relaxation, meditation or intuitive sound exploration.
Yoga Nest version: An instrument that reminds you that a few notes can be enough to change the mood.
Kapalabhati
Definition: Dynamic breathing technique characterized by rapid, active exhalations combined with passive inhalations. Traditionally used to stimulate attention and energy.
Yoga Nest version: Breathing that wakes you up quickly, sometimes faster than expected. Practice with care.
Karma Yoga
Definition: A form of yoga based on selfless action. It proposes acting with commitment, while detaching oneself from the result. It is often put into practice through service, such as volunteering at ashrams, studios or retreats.
Yoga Nest version: lend a hand in a studio or an ashram kitchen, then find that the experience often brings you as much as you offer.
Kirtan
Definition: The collective practice of chanting or repeating mantras, often accompanied by music. It promotes concentration, group cohesion and a shared experience of sound.
Yoga Nest version: A moment when accuracy counts less than daring to participate.
Kosha
Definition: A concept derived from yogic philosophy describing five layers of being, from the physical body to more subtle dimensions.
Yoga Nest version: A useful map for understanding that you’re not just your body or your thoughts.
Kriya
Definition: A set of specific techniques designed to achieve a precise effect, often related to breath, attention or yogic hygiene. Some kriyas, for example, include nasal cleansing practices such as neti pot.
Yoga Nest version: A targeted practice, chosen for a specific reason, not just because it exists.
Kundalini
Definition: Symbolic concept describing latent energy associated with transformation and consciousness. In modern practice, it is generally approached with caution and without seeking excessive intensity.
Yoga Nest version: An impressive word, to be understood calmly, without seeking spectacular effect.
Kukutasana
Definition: Advanced posture requiring arm stability, core engagement and hip mobility. It is traditionally approached after progressive preparation and adapted variations.
Yoga Nest version: A posture that reminds us that improvisation has its limits, especially on the arms.
🔠 Letter L
Lateral
Definition: Lateral flexion and extension movements that cause the torso to tilt or stretch sideways. They involve the spinal column, intercostal muscles and lateral muscle chains.
Yoga Nest version: Movements that often give the impression that your body is discovering a forgotten axis.
Yoga leggings
Definition: Clothing designed to accompany movement, provide comfortable support and allow good joint freedom during practice.
Yoga Nest version: The one you forget once you’ve put it on. That’s often the best sign.
Lotus (Padmasana)
Definition: Traditional sitting posture in which the feet rest on opposite thighs. It requires great mobility of the hips and is not suitable for all bodies, especially if the knees or ankles are sensitive.
Yoga Nest version: An emblematic posture, but not essential for serious meditation.
Lymphatic system
Definition: Network of vessels and ganglia involved in fluid balance and immune response. Its circulation depends in particular on movement, respiration and muscle contraction.
Yoga Nest version: A discreet system that appreciates when you’re on the move.
Lumbar
Definition: Lower part of the spine, involved in trunk stability and movement. It is sensitive to posture, hip mobility and sheathing organization.
Yoga Nest version: A zone that prefers progressiveness to urgency.
Long expiration
Definition: A deliberately lengthened breathing phase, often used to calm the nervous system. It supports activation of the parasympathetic system and involves the vagus nerve in particular.
Yoga Nest version: The breath that helps your nervous system understand that not everything is urgent.
Slow
Definition: A quality of rhythm that improves sensation perception, coordination and attention regulation. It facilitates more precise practice, better adapted to the needs of the moment.
Yoga Nest version: Go slower to notice more.
Myofascial release
Definition: A set of techniques designed to improve connective tissue mobility and reduce certain restrictions of movement. It can be performed with accessories such as self-massage balls, which deliver targeted pressure.
Yoga Nest version: Just a few minutes with a well-placed ball, and you’ll soon understand why certain points need a bit of attention.
Fascial lines
Definition: A concept described by Tom Myers, among others, which presents continuities of connective tissue linking different regions of the body. These lines influence posture and the way tension is distributed during movement.
Yoga Nest version: A good explanation for the fact that sensation isn’t always where you thought it was.
Lolasana
Definition: Balancing posture on the arms, requiring significant engagement of the core, shoulders and hip flexors. It is generally prepared with variations and supports.
Yoga Nest version: A demanding posture that reminds us that lightness is built on stability.
To learn more
- Discovering yoga styles
- Explore yoga and pilates leggings
- See instruments for sound relaxation
- Read other articles on the Yoga Nest blog
