What are asanas?
Asana is a Sanskrit term literally translated to “sitting posture”. Patanjali refers to Asana as the third of the Eight Limbs of ashtanga practice. Asanas must be practiced regularly and properly in order to prepare the body for Meditation, Limb eight. It enables the body to be strong and flexible and aids the mind with abilities such as focus and concentration.
Although the term asana was traditionally used to refer to a static, seated position, over the centuries, it has expanded to include a limitless variety of postures. These poses can be divided into seated, forward bends, backward bends, supine (reclining), inverted, twists, standing and balancing.
Asanas are generally performed slowly and deliberately and are held for longer periods of time than normal pre-workout stretching. The practitioner while performing asanas should experience no pain; and breathing should be slow, deep and controlled. See Ujjayi breathing for asana practice.
Vinyasana or vinyasa is the practice of many asana postures in a particular sequence, using the in and out breaths to create one, smooth flow of movement. Vinyasanas may be used within various forms or types of yoga.
With any other form of exercise, there are a few guidelines to observe.
• Do not bounce or force the stretch. Use static & controlled pressure.
• Do not practice if you are experiencing pain. Some discomfort or tension and even joint cracking or popping is normal during asana practice. Practice only to the threshold of pain.
• Use the breath to increase the pose. Inhale into the area of tension. Exhale to release the muscle, tendon or ligament.
• Do not practice asanas on a full stomach.
• If you experience extreme fatigure, relax in Child’s Pose.
• Some asanas do have contraindications. If you have any type of injury: skeletal, joint, muscle, tendon or ligament; or have any medical conditions or diseases, seek the advice of a medical doctor before undertaking an asana practice.
Asana Images: