Anatomy & Physiology for Yoga Flashcards

Which spinal curve is considered 'primary' because it is present from birth?

Answer: Thoracic kyphosis

The thoracic and sacral kyphotic curves are primary curves present at birth, while cervical and lumbar lordoses develop after birth as the infant lifts the head and walks.

In Kundalini anatomy, the Ida nadi is associated with which nostril and quality?

Answer: Left nostril; lunar, cooling energy

Ida nadi is associated with the left nostril and carries lunar, cooling, feminine energy (chandra) that calms the nervous system.

What is the anatomical term for the connective tissue sheath that surrounds individual muscle fibers?

Answer: Endomysium

The endomysium is the innermost connective tissue layer that surrounds each individual muscle fiber (cell) within a muscle.

During Breath of Fire (Agni Pran), the rapid diaphragmatic pumping primarily increases which physiological parameter?

Answer: Lymphatic circulation and abdominal organ stimulation

Breath of Fire's rapid diaphragmatic action mechanically stimulates lymphatic flow and massages abdominal organs, promoting detoxification and digestion.

Which vertebrae make up the sacrum, and why is its alignment important in Kundalini Yoga?

Answer: S1–S5 (fused); because it is the seat of the root chakra and base of the spinal column

The sacrum is formed by five fused vertebrae (S1–S5) and forms the posterior pelvis, considered the seat of the first chakra and foundation of spinal energy flow.

What role does the hormone cortisol play that is relevant to chronic stress and yoga practice?

Answer: Chronic elevation suppresses immune function and impairs memory

Chronically elevated cortisol (from ongoing stress) suppresses immune function, disrupts sleep, and impairs hippocampal memory—all areas that yoga practice helps normalize.

The 'fight-or-flight' response originates from activation of which gland's medulla?

Answer: Adrenal gland

The adrenal medulla releases epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine in response to sympathetic nervous system activation, triggering the fight-or-flight response.