Svadhyaya

Pronounced: svahd-YAH-yah

Wellness glossary · Yoga Philosophy & Sanskrit

Yoga Philosophy & Sanskrit · definition

A Sanskrit term commonly translated as self-study. Traditionally, it also includes study or recitation of sacred texts. It is one of the five niyamas.

How the term is used

Modern yoga often emphasizes reflective self-observation as one aspect of svadhyaya.

Why it matters

It links personal reflection with study and is central to the idea of using practice to notice patterns.

Read the guide Yoga Beyond the Poses: A Guide to Yoga Philosophy for Everyday Life

Where this comes up

Where this fits in a practice

The guides explain the idea in context; the service pathways are there when reading is not enough. Educational content only — nothing here is medical or mental-health care.