I85PREP
⌘ K
YCB Level 2 study materials
YCB Level 2 study resources

YCB Level 2 practice questions

One question at a time. Build your YCB Level 2 understanding.

First 50 of 200 questions. Each one lists the choices, the correct answer, and an explanation. The checker at the top of this page saves progress in this browser when it is available.

Continue in the practice tool above to load more questions, 50 at a time.

Question 1Introduction to Yoga and Yogic Practices (definitions, history, streams, guidelines for practice)

Patanjali's Yoga Sutra 1.2 defines yoga as which of the following?

  1. detachment from the results of one's actions
  2. stillness of the modifications of the mind Correct answer.
  3. a set of physical exercises for bodily health
  4. union of the individual self with the universal self

Explanation

The sutra reads yogash chitta-vritti-nirodhah, meaning yoga is the settling or stilling of the mind's fluctuations. This is Patanjali's classical formulation in the Samadhi Pada. The other choices are popular or context-specific definitions, not the wording of this sutra.

Question 2Introduction to Yoga and Yogic Practices (definitions, history, streams, guidelines for practice)

Which path of yoga is described in the Bhagavad Gita as the discipline of selfless action performed without attachment to results?

  1. Hatha yoga
  2. Karma yoga Correct answer.
  3. Jnana yoga
  4. Bhakti yoga

Explanation

Karma yoga is the path of action offered without clinging to personal reward, often called nishkama karma. The Bhagavad Gita presents it as a way to act fully while remaining inwardly detached from the fruits of action. Jnana, Bhakti, and Hatha refer to knowledge, devotion, and bodily discipline respectively.

Question 3Introduction to Yoga and Yogic Practices (definitions, history, streams, guidelines for practice)

Traditional yoga guidelines recommend that asana and pranayama practice should preferably be done:

  1. late at night just before sleep
  2. immediately after intense physical exercise
  3. immediately after a full meal
  4. early in the morning on an empty stomach Correct answer.

Explanation

Classical manuals advise practicing in the early morning, ideally during brahma muhurta, after voiding the bowels and bladder. An empty stomach supports steady breathing and comfortable movement. Practicing soon after a heavy meal or exhausting exercise is discouraged because it strains the body.

Question 4Introduction to Yoga and Yogic Practices (definitions, history, streams, guidelines for practice)

In Patanjali's eight-limbed (ashtanga) yoga, which limb comes immediately after pranayama?

  1. dharana
  2. pratyahara Correct answer.
  3. samadhi
  4. asana

Explanation

The order of the eight limbs is yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana, and samadhi. Pratyahara, the withdrawal of the senses, therefore follows pranayama. Dharana and samadhi come later in the sequence.

Question 5Introduction to Yoga and Yogic Practices (definitions, history, streams, guidelines for practice)

According to the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, what does a properly accomplished asana give the practitioner?

  1. deep sleep and increased body weight
  2. mastery of scriptural debate
  3. supernatural powers and control over others
  4. steadiness, health, and lightness of the limbs Correct answer.

Explanation

The Hatha Yoga Pradipika describes asana as bringing steadiness, freedom from disease, and lightness of the limbs. The practice is thus aimed at a stable, healthy, and supple body that supports further yoga. It is not presented as a means of dominating others or as mere sleep.

Question 6Introduction to Yoga and Yogic Practices (definitions, history, streams, guidelines for practice)

In hatha yoga guidelines, the term mitahara refers to:

  1. moderate and wholesome food, leaving part of the stomach empty Correct answer.
  2. complete fasting on alternate days
  3. drinking large quantities of water before practice
  4. eating only raw foods at night

Explanation

Mitahara means moderate eating: wholesome, nourishing food in measured quantity, traditionally leaving a quarter of the stomach free. It is a balanced guideline rather than a rule of extreme fasting or rigid food faddism. This supports steady practice and avoids heaviness.

Question 7Introduction to Yoga and Yogic Practices (definitions, history, streams, guidelines for practice)

Raja yoga, as presented in classical texts, is chiefly concerned with:

  1. developing extreme flexibility in postures
  2. disciplining the mind through meditation and the eight limbs Correct answer.
  3. purifying the body through six cleansing actions
  4. ritual worship of a chosen deity

Explanation

Raja yoga is the royal path of mental discipline, systematized in Patanjali's eight limbs and culminating in samadhi. Its central concern is stilling the mind rather than bodily purification or ritual alone. Hatha yoga gives greater emphasis to cleansing and bodily techniques, while Bhakti emphasizes devotion.

Question 8Introduction to Yoga and Yogic Practices (definitions, history, streams, guidelines for practice)

In which year was yoga inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity?

  1. 2015
  2. 2014
  3. 2017
  4. 2016 Correct answer.

Explanation

UNESCO inscribed yoga on the Representative List in 2016, recognizing its cultural heritage and transmission. This recognition is distinct from the United Nations' declaration of the International Day of Yoga, which was made in 2014. The date is a useful marker in the modern history of yoga.

Question 9Introduction to Yoga and Yogic Practices (definitions, history, streams, guidelines for practice)

According to Patanjali, which of the following is one of the five chitta-vrittis (modifications of the mind)?

  1. pramana Correct answer.
  2. pranayama
  3. ahimsa
  4. dhyana

Explanation

The five vrittis are pramana (valid knowledge), viparyaya (misconception), vikalpa (verbal construct), nidra (sleep), and smriti (memory). Pramana is therefore the correct member of that list. Ahimsa is a yama, while dhyana and pranayama are limbs of practice rather than vrittis.

Question 10Introduction to Yoga and Yogic Practices (definitions, history, streams, guidelines for practice)

Which of the following is classified as one of the six shatkarmas in hatha yoga?

  1. Bhastrika pranayama
  2. Ujjayi pranayama
  3. Nauli Correct answer.
  4. Nadi shodhana

Explanation

The shatkarmas are six cleansing actions: dhauti, basti, neti, trataka, nauli, and kapalabhati. Nauli, an abdominal cleansing technique, belongs to this group. Ujjayi, bhastrika, and nadi shodhana are pranayama practices, not shatkarmas.

Question 11Introduction to Yoga and Yogic Practices (definitions, history, streams, guidelines for practice)

The word 'yoga' is traditionally traced to which Sanskrit root?

  1. yā
  2. yuj Correct answer.
  3. yaj
  4. yudh

Explanation

Yoga derives from the Sanskrit root yuj, meaning to yoke, join, or unite. In classical usage it points to union or integration, and Patanjali uses it for the stilling of mental modifications. The other roots belong to different Sanskrit verbs with unrelated meanings.

Question 12Introduction to Yoga and Yogic Practices (definitions, history, streams, guidelines for practice)

Which of the following is classified as one of the five yamas in Patanjali's Yoga Sutra?

  1. Ahimsa (non-violence) Correct answer.
  2. Santosha (contentment)
  3. Svadhyaya (self-study)
  4. Tapas (austerity)

Explanation

The five yamas are ahimsa, satya, asteya, brahmacharya, and aparigraha. Ahimsa, non-violence, is therefore a yama, while contentment, austerity, and self-study belong to the niyamas.

Question 13Introduction to Yoga and Yogic Practices (definitions, history, streams, guidelines for practice)

Which stream of yoga is chiefly devoted to loving devotion and surrender to the divine?

  1. Bhakti yoga Correct answer.
  2. Karma yoga
  3. Jnana yoga
  4. Hatha yoga

Explanation

Bhakti yoga is the path of devotion, expressed through love, prayer, and surrender to a personal deity. Jnana yoga emphasizes discriminative knowledge, Karma yoga emphasizes selfless action, and Hatha yoga emphasizes physical and energetic purification.

Question 14Introduction to Yoga and Yogic Practices (definitions, history, streams, guidelines for practice)

In Patanjali's system, aparigraha is best described as:

  1. Truthfulness in speech and action
  2. Abstinence from sexual misconduct
  3. Non-stealing of another's property
  4. Non-possessiveness Correct answer.

Explanation

Aparigraha is the yama of non-possessiveness, freedom from grasping and unnecessary accumulation. It is distinct from satya, brahmacharya, and asteya, which are the yamas of truthfulness, sexual restraint, and non-stealing respectively.

Question 15Introduction to Yoga and Yogic Practices (definitions, history, streams, guidelines for practice)

What does the Yoga Sutra phrase 'sthira sukham asanam' mean?

  1. A prolonged and forceful breath retention
  2. A joyful and social gathering of practitioners
  3. A fixed and silent withdrawal of the senses
  4. A steady and comfortable posture Correct answer.

Explanation

The phrase describes asana as a posture that is both steady (sthira) and comfortable (sukha). Patanjali's definition concerns the seated posture used for meditation, not breath retention, sense withdrawal, or social activity.

Question 16Introduction to Yoga and Yogic Practices (definitions, history, streams, guidelines for practice)

In the eight limbs of yoga, dharana refers to:

  1. Withdrawal of the senses from external objects
  2. Continuous, uninterrupted flow of attention
  3. Complete absorption without subject-object distinction
  4. One-pointed concentration Correct answer.

Explanation

Dharana is the sixth limb and means concentration: fixing the mind on a single object or point. Dhyana is the sustained flow of attention, samadhi is complete absorption, and pratyahara is sense withdrawal.

Question 17Introduction to Yoga and Yogic Practices (definitions, history, streams, guidelines for practice)

Who is traditionally credited with compiling the Hatha Yoga Pradipika?

  1. Gheranda
  2. Patanjali
  3. Gorakshanatha
  4. Swatmarama Correct answer.

Explanation

The Hatha Yoga Pradipika is attributed to Swatmarama, a fifteenth-century hatha yoga teacher. Patanjali is associated with the Yoga Sutra, Gheranda with the Gheranda Samhita, and Gorakshanatha with a broader Nath tradition.

Question 18Introduction to Yoga and Yogic Practices (definitions, history, streams, guidelines for practice)

A student wants to follow traditional guidelines for home yoga practice. Which choice best reflects those guidelines?

  1. At fixed times in a clean, quiet space Correct answer.
  2. On a soft bed in a closed room
  3. Immediately after a heavy meal to use food energy
  4. Only when you feel motivated, in any noisy place

Explanation

Traditional guidelines favor regularity, a clean and quiet place, good ventilation, and a firm support. Practicing erratically, immediately after a heavy meal, or on a soft bed in a closed room goes against these recommendations.

Question 19Introduction to Yoga and Yogic Practices (definitions, history, streams, guidelines for practice)

The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali are traditionally divided into how many chapters (padas)?

  1. Three
  2. Eight
  3. Four Correct answer.
  4. Two

Explanation

The Yoga Sutra has four padas: Samadhi Pada, Sadhana Pada, Vibhuti Pada, and Kaivalya Pada. The number eight refers to the limbs of ashtanga yoga, not to the chapters of the text.

Question 20Introduction to Yoga and Yogic Practices (definitions, history, streams, guidelines for practice)

Which option gives the correct order of the final three limbs of Patanjali's ashtanga yoga?

  1. Dharana, Samadhi, Dhyana
  2. Dhyana, Dharana, Samadhi
  3. Samadhi, Dharana, Dhyana
  4. Dharana, Dhyana, Samadhi Correct answer.

Explanation

The last three limbs proceed from dharana (concentration) to dhyana (meditation) to samadhi (absorption). The other sequences reverse or scramble this inner progression.

Question 21Introduction to Yoga and Yogic Practices (definitions, history, streams, guidelines for practice)

Among the four classical paths of yoga presented in the Bhagavad Gita, which one is primarily the path of knowledge and discriminative inquiry into the nature of the Self?

  1. Bhakti yoga
  2. Karma yoga
  3. Hatha yoga
  4. Jnana yoga Correct answer.

Explanation

Jnana yoga is the path of knowledge, using study, reflection, and discrimination to distinguish the real Self from the non-Self. The other classical paths emphasize selfless action, loving devotion, or meditative absorption rather than inquiry as the primary means.

Question 22Introduction to Yoga and Yogic Practices (definitions, history, streams, guidelines for practice)

A teacher explains that in traditional asana practice, postures are often arranged in a flowing sequence coordinated with the breath. Which term best describes this approach?

  1. Mudra
  2. Bandha
  3. Shatkarma
  4. Vinyasa Correct answer.

Explanation

Vinyasa refers to arranging asanas in a deliberate sequence, often linking movement with breath; it is a method of practice rather than a cleansing action or a lock. The other terms name purification techniques, energetic locks, or gestures/seals.

Question 23Introduction to Yoga and Yogic Practices (definitions, history, streams, guidelines for practice)

In Patanjali's eight-limbed yoga, which niyama specifically refers to purity or cleanliness of body and mind?

  1. Svadhyaya
  2. Santosha
  3. Shaucha Correct answer.
  4. Tapas

Explanation

Shaucha is the niyama of cleanliness and purity, encompassing bodily cleanliness as well as clarity and purity of mind. Santosha is contentment, tapas is austerity, and svadhyaya is self-study.

Question 24Introduction to Yoga and Yogic Practices (definitions, history, streams, guidelines for practice)

In the Bhagavad Gita, the phrase 'yogah karmasu kaushalam' defines yoga as which of the following?

  1. Mastery of breath control
  2. Renunciation of all action
  3. Devotion to a personal deity
  4. Skill or dexterity in action Correct answer.

Explanation

The Gita's phrase means yoga is skill or dexterity in action-acting with balance and detachment rather than abandoning action altogether. It does not define yoga as exclusive devotion or as breath mastery.

Question 25Introduction to Yogic Texts (Patanjali Yoga Sutra, Bhagavad Gita, Hathapradipika – selected concepts)

According to Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra 1.2, yoga is defined as:

  1. the union of the individual self with the universal self
  2. the performance of action without attachment to results
  3. the stilling of the modifications of the mind Correct answer.
  4. the control of the breath in the practice of pranayama

Explanation

Sutra 1.2 states 'yogash chitta vrittih nirodhah': yoga is the stilling or cessation of the modifications of chitta. Pranayama is one of the eight limbs, while 'union' is a later broad gloss rather than Patanjali's wording. The Gita's nishkama karma is a distinct teaching.

Question 26Introduction to Yogic Texts (Patanjali Yoga Sutra, Bhagavad Gita, Hathapradipika – selected concepts)

The Bhagavad Gita declares 'samatvam yoga uchyate.' What does this phrase identify as yoga?

  1. Equanimity of mind Correct answer.
  2. Mastery of breathing techniques
  3. Recitation of Vedic mantras
  4. Renunciation of all action

Explanation

Bhagavad Gita 2.48 says 'samatvam yoga uchyate', meaning equanimity is called yoga. The verse asks the practitioner to remain even-minded in success and failure and to act without attachment. It does not define yoga as breath mastery or mantra recitation.

Question 27Introduction to Yogic Texts (Patanjali Yoga Sutra, Bhagavad Gita, Hathapradipika – selected concepts)

Hathapradipika is traditionally attributed to which author?

  1. Patanjali
  2. Gheranda
  3. Svatmarama Correct answer.
  4. Vyasa

Explanation

Hathapradipika is ascribed to Svatmarama, who presents hatha practices as a means to raja yoga. Patanjali wrote the Yoga Sutra, Gheranda the Gheranda Samhita, and Vyasa is the classical commentator on the Yoga Sutra. These are separate authorities and texts.

Question 28Introduction to Yogic Texts (Patanjali Yoga Sutra, Bhagavad Gita, Hathapradipika – selected concepts)

Patanjali lists five chitta vrittis. Which set correctly names them?

  1. Pramana, viparyaya, vikalpa, nidra and smriti Correct answer.
  2. Asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana and dhyana
  3. Ahimsa, satya, asteya, brahmacharya and aparigraha
  4. Sattva, rajas, tamas, raga and dvesha

Explanation

Yoga Sutra 1.6 lists pramana, viparyaya, vikalpa, nidra and smriti as the five vrittis. They cover right knowledge, wrong knowledge, imagination, sleep and memory. The other sets name yamas, limbs or gunas and kleshas, not the five vrittis.

Question 29Introduction to Yogic Texts (Patanjali Yoga Sutra, Bhagavad Gita, Hathapradipika – selected concepts)

Which answer gives the last four limbs of Patanjali’s ashtanga yoga in the correct order?

  1. Asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana and samadhi
  2. Pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana
  3. Pratyahara, dharana, dhyana, samadhi Correct answer.
  4. Yama, niyama, asana, pranayama

Explanation

Ashtanga yoga proceeds yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana and samadhi. Therefore the last four are pratyahara, dharana, dhyana and samadhi. The first four end with pranayama, not with samadhi.

Question 30Introduction to Yogic Texts (Patanjali Yoga Sutra, Bhagavad Gita, Hathapradipika – selected concepts)

Bhagavad Gita 2.47 teaches that one has a right to action alone. What follows from this teaching about the fruits of action?

  1. One should not be attached to the fruits of action Correct answer.
  2. One should perform action only for visible rewards
  3. One should offer fruits to the gods before acting
  4. One should abandon action to avoid suffering

Explanation

Gita 2.47 says 'karmanye vadhikaraste ma phaleshu kadachana': one's right is to action, not to its fruits. The teaching is to act without attachment to results, not to abandon action. Reward-seeking and ritual offering to deities do not capture this nishkama karma ideal.

Question 31Introduction to Yogic Texts (Patanjali Yoga Sutra, Bhagavad Gita, Hathapradipika – selected concepts)

Which group contains the six cleansing practices (shatkarma) described in Hathapradipika?

  1. Yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara and dharana
  2. Mula, uddiyana, jalandhara, maha, maha Vedha and khechari
  3. Siddhasana, padmasana, simhasana, bhadrasana, svastikasana and vajrasana
  4. Dhauti, basti, neti, nauli, trataka and kapalabhati Correct answer.

Explanation

Hathapradipika chapter 2 names dhauti, basti, neti, nauli (lauliki), trataka and kapalabhati as the shatkarmas. These are cleansing methods preparatory to pranayama. Asanas, yamas and bandhas or mudras belong to other categories.

Question 32Introduction to Yogic Texts (Patanjali Yoga Sutra, Bhagavad Gita, Hathapradipika – selected concepts)

According to Yoga Sutra 2.1, kriya yoga consists of which three practices?

  1. Tapas, svadhyaya and Ishvara pranidhana Correct answer.
  2. Ahimsa, satya, asteya and brahmacharya
  3. Asana, pranayama, pratyahara and dhyana
  4. Dharana, dhyana and samadhi

Explanation

Yoga Sutra 2.1 defines kriya yoga as tapas, svadhyaya and Ishvara pranidhana. These three are austerity, self-study and surrender to Ishvara. Asana, pranayama and dhyana belong to ashtanga yoga, while ahimsa and the other yamas are moral restraints.

Question 33Introduction to Yogic Texts (Patanjali Yoga Sutra, Bhagavad Gita, Hathapradipika – selected concepts)

Yoga Sutra 1.24 defines Ishvara as a special purusha. Which phrase best captures the qualifiers given there?

  1. A purusha who governs the five elements, senses and the entire material world
  2. A purusha untouched by kleshas, karma, karmic fruits and latent impressions Correct answer.
  3. A purusha who has attained the highest state of meditative absorption and powers
  4. A purusha who is the author of the Vedas, rituals and codes of social duty

Explanation

Sutra 1.24 says Ishvara is a special purusha untouched by kleshas, karma, karmic fruition and latent impressions. This makes Ishvara a distinct purusha, not merely a yogi with high attainment. The other options describe a yogi, a cosmic ruler or a Vedic creator figure.

Question 34Introduction to Yogic Texts (Patanjali Yoga Sutra, Bhagavad Gita, Hathapradipika – selected concepts)

Hathapradipika chapter 1 singles out four asanas as especially important. Which set names them?

  1. Simhasana, bhadrasana, gorakshasana and kurmasana
  2. Siddhasana, vajrasana, matsyasana and mayurasana
  3. Padmasana, svastikasana, vajrasana and sukhasana
  4. Siddhasana, padmasana, simhasana and bhadrasana Correct answer.

Explanation

Hathapradipika chapter 1 identifies siddhasana, padmasana, simhasana and bhadrasana as the four principal asanas. Other asanas are also mentioned, but these four are singled out. The sets containing vajrasana, mayurasana or kurmasana mix in other asanas.

Question 35Introduction to Yogic Texts (Patanjali Yoga Sutra, Bhagavad Gita, Hathapradipika – selected concepts)

Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra opens with 'atha yoga anushasanam.' Which rendering best conveys the sense of this opening sutra?

  1. Yoga is union with the divine.
  2. Now begins the discipline of yoga. Correct answer.
  3. Yoga is the cessation of suffering.
  4. Yoga is the stilling of the mind.

Explanation

The opening sutra uses atha to mark an auspicious beginning or 'now,' and anushasanam to mean discipline or authoritative exposition. Patanjali therefore announces a disciplined presentation of yoga, not the definition of yoga found in the next sutra.

Question 36Introduction to Yogic Texts (Patanjali Yoga Sutra, Bhagavad Gita, Hathapradipika – selected concepts)

Hathapradipika is arranged in four chapters (upadeshas). Which topic is the principal subject of its second chapter?

  1. Mudras and bandhas
  2. Pranayama and kumbhaka Correct answer.
  3. Asana and dietary rules
  4. Samadhi and raja yoga

Explanation

Hathapradipika’s four upadeshas move from asana and regimen, through pranayama, to mudras and bandhas, and finally to samadhi. The second chapter is accordingly devoted to pranayama, including kumbhaka and related breath practices.

Question 37Introduction to Yogic Texts (Patanjali Yoga Sutra, Bhagavad Gita, Hathapradipika – selected concepts)

In Bhagavad Gita 2.54, Arjuna asks how a person of steady wisdom speaks, sits, and walks. Which term names this person of steady wisdom?

  1. Yogarudha
  2. Sthitaprajna Correct answer.
  3. Paramahamsa
  4. Sannyasi

Explanation

In Bhagavad Gita 2.54 Arjuna asks about the sthitaprajna, the person whose wisdom is steady and established. The term is a compound meaning 'one of steady wisdom,' and the verses that follow describe such a person’s speech, conduct, and inner peace.

Question 38Introduction to Yogic Texts (Patanjali Yoga Sutra, Bhagavad Gita, Hathapradipika – selected concepts)

Yoga Sutra 1.17 describes samprajnata samadhi as accompanied by four supports. Which set names them in Patanjali’s order?

  1. Vitarka, vichara, ananda, asmita Correct answer.
  2. Vichara, vitarka, asmita, ananda
  3. Ananda, asmita, vitarka, vichara
  4. Asmita, ananda, vichara, vitarka

Explanation

Yoga Sutra 1.17 lists the four accompaniments of samprajnata samadhi as vitarka, vichara, ananda, and asmita. These correspond to coarse thought, subtle thought, joy, and the sense of 'I-am-ness,' and Patanjali presents them in that sequence.

Question 39Introduction to Yogic Texts (Patanjali Yoga Sutra, Bhagavad Gita, Hathapradipika – selected concepts)

A student can hold a seated posture without strain but keeps shifting because the position feels dull and uncomfortable. Which Yoga Sutra formula most directly addresses what this posture lacks?

  1. Sthira sukham asanam: steady, comfortable posture. Correct answer.
  2. Prayatna shaithilya: relaxation of effort in posture.
  3. Ahimsa pratishthayam: firmness in non-violence.
  4. Tatah dvandva anabhighatah: freedom from dualities.

Explanation

Yoga Sutra 2.46 defines asana as sthira sukham asanam, a posture that is steady and comfortable. A dull, uncomfortable seat that forces shifting fails the sukha condition, while a strained fixed position fails sthira; the definition calls for both qualities together.

Question 40Introduction to Yogic Texts (Patanjali Yoga Sutra, Bhagavad Gita, Hathapradipika – selected concepts)

Bhagavad Gita 6.34 compares the mind to wind. In 6.35 Krishna responds that the mind is restrained by which pair?

  1. Jnana and karma
  2. Dhyana and japa
  3. Abhyasa and vairagya Correct answer.
  4. Shraddha and tapas

Explanation

Bhagavad Gita 6.35 answers Arjuna’s complaint in 6.34 by saying the restless mind is controlled through abhyasa and vairagya. Abhyasa is sustained practice, while vairagya is dispassion or non-attachment; the pair is presented as the practical remedy.

Question 41Introduction to Yogic Texts (Patanjali Yoga Sutra, Bhagavad Gita, Hathapradipika – selected concepts)

Hathapradipika describes a kumbhaka that is performed without inhalation or exhalation and is said to be mastered only when the nadis are purified. Which term is used for this?

  1. Sahita kumbhaka
  2. Bhastrika
  3. Kevala kumbhaka Correct answer.
  4. Surya bheda

Explanation

Hathapradipika distinguishes sahita kumbhaka, which involves deliberate inhalation and exhalation, from kevala kumbhaka, which occurs without either. Kevala is said to come after purification of the nadis and is described as the higher, spontaneous retention.

Question 42Introduction to Yogic Texts (Patanjali Yoga Sutra, Bhagavad Gita, Hathapradipika – selected concepts)

Yoga Sutra 2.4 states that the other kleshas are rooted in avidya. In 2.5, avidya is defined as mistaking which four?

  1. Impermanent as permanent, impure as pure, painful as pleasant, non-self as self Correct answer.
  2. Permanent as impermanent, pure as impure, pleasant as painful, self as non-self
  3. Impermanent as permanent, impure as pure, pleasant as painful, self as non-self
  4. Impermanent as pure, permanent as impure, painful as pleasant, self as non-self

Explanation

Yoga Sutra 2.5 defines avidya as taking the impermanent to be permanent, the impure to be pure, the painful to be pleasant, and the non-self to be self. The other kleshas are said in 2.4 to have this misapprehension as their field or root.

Question 43Introduction to Yogic Texts (Patanjali Yoga Sutra, Bhagavad Gita, Hathapradipika – selected concepts)

In Yoga Sutra 3.1–3.4, dharana, dhyana, and samadhi are successively defined. What does 3.4 call the combined practice of these three on a single object?

  1. Vibhuti
  2. Samyama Correct answer.
  3. Pratyahara
  4. Kaivalya

Explanation

Yoga Sutra 3.1 defines dharana, 3.2 defines dhyana, and 3.3 defines samadhi. Sutra 3.4 then says that these three, when applied together to one object, constitute samyama, the integrated practice that yields yogic powers.

Question 44Introduction to Yogic Texts (Patanjali Yoga Sutra, Bhagavad Gita, Hathapradipika – selected concepts)

Bhagavad Gita 4.8 states the purpose of Krishna’s descent. Which triplet best summarizes it?

  1. To institute the four ashramas and the system of yajna
  2. To reveal the distinction between purusha and prakriti
  3. To teach the three paths of karma, bhakti, and jnana
  4. To protect the virtuous, destroy the wicked, and restore dharma Correct answer.

Explanation

Bhagavad Gita 4.8 gives a threefold purpose for Krishna’s descent: paritranaya sadhunam, vinashaya cha dushkritam, and dharma-samsthapanarthaya. That is, protection of the virtuous, destruction of the wicked, and re-establishment of dharma.

Question 45Yogic Practices: Shatkarma, Sukshma and Sthula Vyayama, Asana, Pranayama, Bandha, Mudra

Which Shatkarma cleansing practice specifically uses water or a thread through the nasal passages?

  1. Dhauti
  2. Neti Correct answer.
  3. Trataka
  4. Nauli

Explanation

Neti is the Shatkarma cleansing practice that uses saline water (Jala Neti) or a cotton thread (Sutra Neti) to clear the nasal passages. Nauli works on the abdominal muscles, Trataka involves steady gazing, and Dhauti cleans the digestive tract. These are separate Shatkarma categories, so Neti is the only correct nasal cleansing technique here.

Question 46Yogic Practices: Shatkarma, Sukshma and Sthula Vyayama, Asana, Pranayama, Bandha, Mudra

Which bandha is performed by pressing the chin into the chest while holding the breath, often used in pranayama?

  1. Mula Bandha
  2. Uddiyana Bandha
  3. Maha Bandha
  4. Jalandhara Bandha Correct answer.

Explanation

Jalandhara Bandha is the throat lock: the chin is drawn toward the chest and the throat is contracted, usually while the breath is held. Mula Bandha involves the perineal region, Uddiyana Bandha lifts the abdomen, and Maha Bandha combines all three locks. Therefore the chin position uniquely identifies Jalandhara Bandha.

Question 47Yogic Practices: Shatkarma, Sukshma and Sthula Vyayama, Asana, Pranayama, Bandha, Mudra

Which mudra is formed by joining both palms together at the chest in a prayer position?

  1. Kaki Mudra
  2. Anjali Mudra Correct answer.
  3. Ashwini Mudra
  4. Chin Mudra

Explanation

Anjali Mudra is the gesture of joining the palms at the heart or chest, commonly used at the start and end of practice. Chin Mudra is a hand gesture with the thumb and index finger touching, Kaki Mudra purses the lips, and Ashwini Mudra involves anal contraction. Joining both palms in prayer is specifically Anjali Mudra.

Question 48Yogic Practices: Shatkarma, Sukshma and Sthula Vyayama, Asana, Pranayama, Bandha, Mudra

In Nadi Shodhana pranayama, which finger of the right hand is conventionally used to close the left nostril while the thumb closes the right nostril?

  1. Ring finger Correct answer.
  2. Index finger
  3. Middle finger
  4. Little finger

Explanation

In the classical Nadi Shodhana hand position, the right thumb closes the right nostril and the ring finger closes the left nostril, while the index and middle fingers are folded. The little finger is not normally used for nostril control. This alternating finger placement is what allows smooth alternate-nostril breathing.

Question 49Yogic Practices: Shatkarma, Sukshma and Sthula Vyayama, Asana, Pranayama, Bandha, Mudra

Which asana is performed lying prone, with the palms beside the chest, lifting the head and upper chest while the navel remains near the floor?

  1. Bhujangasana Correct answer.
  2. Vajrasana
  3. Shalabhasana
  4. Dhanurasana

Explanation

Bhujangasana (cobra pose) is a prone backbend in which the palms are placed beside the chest, the head and chest lift, and the navel stays close to the floor. Shalabhasana lifts the legs from prone, Dhanurasana lifts both ends while holding the ankles, and Vajrasana is a seated kneeling pose. The described position is therefore Bhujangasana.

Question 50Yogic Practices: Shatkarma, Sukshma and Sthula Vyayama, Asana, Pranayama, Bandha, Mudra

Which of the following is a Sukshma Vyayama (subtle exercise) practice?

  1. Surya Namaskara
  2. Neck rotation Correct answer.
  3. Nauli
  4. Vajrasana

Explanation

Sukshma Vyayama consists of gentle, subtle joint and muscle movements such as neck rotation, wrist rotation, and ankle rotation. Surya Namaskara is a gross dynamic sequence (Sthula Vyayama), Vajrasana is a seated asana, and Nauli is a Shatkarma cleansing technique. Thus neck rotation is the correct subtle exercise.