Power in Yoga Asana

by Gunjan Arora, posted in Asana, Focus, health, meditation, Mind, Stress, Yoga, Yoga Therapy

Gaining mastery over the mind is Yoga and Yoga postures are the tools for gaining that mastery. The term Asana is derived from Sanskrit root ‘aas’ means ‘to sit’ or ‘asi’ means ‘to be’. Asana is a posture held stable with comfort. In practical terms stability here signifies immobilization of the body and comfort denotes a harmonious peaceful and serene mental state. Thus contrary to the common motion asana is not only a practice involving the human body but also the human mind.

Yoga postures form the base of almost all other practices of Yoga from beginning to the end. Their real importance lies in the way they train and discipline the mind. Thus the first step to get into a Yoga posture is effortlessness or relaxation. It involves relaxation of all those groups of muscles in the body which are not required to participate for the performance of a particular posture. Further even those muscles which are involved in the maintenance of the final posture are made to relax consciously to the maximum possible extent. Yoga postures therefore involve the techniques of relaxation of efforts and attuning the mind to the expansive vision of calmness. The longer we are able to stay, the better and deeper will be the result.

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Yoga postures take full advantage of the extreme range of movement made available due to various types of joints, flexibility and the gravitational aspects of human body. It uses the limbs of the body that provide the necessary weights and counter weights. The scope of Yoga postures is so vast and all-embracing that their limitations fade into insignificance comparatively. Depending upon the anatomic limitations due to fat rigidity, ageing process, illnesses etc., one can choose the simplest from the vast array of Yoga asanas. Some traditions prescribe use of props, mechanical aids in the performance of specific asana which make the performance of asana within reach of all kinds of practitioners to be able to reap its benefits.

  • Yoga postures overcome the disharmonies in the body and help to restore perfect harmony in the working of the whole body especially the neuro-musculo-glandular tone.
  • It helps to restore mental and emotional wellbeing. It teaches one how to quiet the mind so one can focus the energy where one wants it to be – could be into a difficult yoga posture, on the tennis court, or in the office, it encourages positive thoughts and self-acceptance.
  • It also leads to spiritual benefits by building awareness of body, feelings and the world around. It promotes an inter dependence between mind, body and spirit, helping one to live the concept of ‘oneness’.

Thus, by practicing Yoga postures, the practitioner gains holistic health, which is not mere existence. It is not a commodity which can be purchased with money. It is an asset to be gained with consistent practice. A true practitioner seeks a body strong as a thunderbolt, healthy, and free from suffering so as to dedicate it in the higher purpose for which it is intended for.

47 thoughts on “Power in Yoga Asana”

  1. Hi,
    I read your about blogger page and I would like to get in touch with you for recommendations of a yoga/meditation retreat in Goa (preferably near the sea). Along with 2 or 3 other women we are planning a trip to India for January or February 2020. We are very much in the early stages of planning this trip. Thanks for your consideration.
    Carol

    Liked by 6 people

    Reply

    1. Thank you for connecting with my blog.
      Glad you took that decision! The only thing it demands is will/ determination for consistent practice. Benefits will unfold as you walk your journey. Wishing you great health!

      Liked by 2 people

      Reply

  9. You have provided the best explanation of yoga I have seen to date. I am an irregular yoga practitioner and feel I would greatly benefit from a more regular practice. Thanks for the inspiration. 🙂

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply

  16. With so much knowledge that you give, I think that I will not have any choice but to look for yoga classes. everything that has to do with mental health, is beneficial for a healthy life. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply

    1. Thank you for appreciating 🙏… You definitely seem to be a practicing Yogi… Feels nice when the knower of the art seconds the opinion. May Yoga take us all closer to the ultimate reality!

      Like

      Reply

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