ASANAS (Yoga Poses)

Asana(sanskrit) or Yoga Pose is the third limb of the 8 limbed path outlined in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali.

Chapter 2, verse 46 of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra states that asana should strike a balance between steadiness and ease (sthira-sukham asanam).

Yoga asanas are the physical aspect of yoga, which in western culture are the most recognizable part of the practice.

Practicing asanas, can slow us down and help us bridge disconnections between the body, mind, and breath. It can also be practiced to increase strength and flexibility, improve balance and core strength, and bring a sense of mindfulness into our everyday lives.

Originally they meant to cleanse and prepare the physical body in order to sit comfortably in meditation for hours!

Many poses have Sanskrit names and these pose names often describe the pose’s appearance. It is important to learn the foundations of each pose.