Anatomy & Physiology for Yoga Flashcards

Which endocrine gland is associated with the sixth chakra (Ajna) in Kundalini Yoga?

Answer: Pituitary gland

The pituitary gland, often called the 'master gland,' is associated with the sixth chakra (Ajna or third eye center) in Kundalini Yoga.

What is the primary muscle used in diaphragmatic breathing, which is foundational to Kundalini pranayama?

Answer: Diaphragm

The diaphragm is the dome-shaped muscle separating the thoracic and abdominal cavities that drives diaphragmatic (belly) breathing.

In Kundalini Yoga, Mula Bandha (root lock) primarily engages which anatomical region?

Answer: Pelvic floor musculature

Mula Bandha contracts the pelvic floor muscles, including the levator ani and coccygeus, to seal and redirect energy upward.

The vagus nerve is critical in yoga because it is the primary nerve of which system?

Answer: Parasympathetic nervous system

The vagus nerve (cranial nerve X) is the longest and most complex nerve of the parasympathetic nervous system, regulating rest-and-digest responses activated during yoga.

Which type of joint allows the greatest range of motion and is most commonly involved in yoga asana?

Answer: Ball-and-socket joint

Ball-and-socket joints, such as the hip and shoulder, allow movement in all planes and are the most mobile joint type engaged in yoga.

What physiological mechanism explains why slow, extended exhalation activates the parasympathetic nervous system?

Answer: It activates the vagus nerve via stretch receptors in the lungs and diaphragm

Prolonged exhalation stimulates vagal afferents through pulmonary stretch receptors, increasing parasympathetic tone and promoting relaxation.

The thoracic duct, which is relevant in understanding prana and lymph flow in yoga, returns lymph to which blood vessel?

Answer: Left subclavian vein

The thoracic duct drains most of the body's lymph and empties into the left subclavian vein at the junction with the left internal jugular vein.