THE EIGHT LIMBS OF YOGA: ASANA

Asana is the third limb described by Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras. Asana can be translated literally as “seat,” but in the context of the eight limbs we understand asana as the physical practice of postures.

Usually, Asana is the first contact that we have with Yoga, and maybe that's why exists the misconception that Yoga is only a physical practice. So many people, including myself, started our Yoga journeys because of the physical practice, but after experiencing its benefits we felt the call to go deeper, and in that moment, the spiritual and philosophical part of Yoga started to reveal. For other people, the path is the opposite.

The important thing to highlight is that without Asana, the Yoga path is incomplete. Through Asana, we prepare our bodies for the physical challenge that Meditation represents. To stay in a comfortable seat, the seated position used for meditation, our body needs to be in a good condition, and we can develop a good physical condition through the regular practice of asana.

The practice of Asana is closely linked to the practice of Pranayama, and the combination of both of them, increases the benefits of the poses. The Asana practice has many physical and mental benefits, like:

• Increases flexibility and strength

• Stimulates the circulatory, immune and digestive systems

• Reduces anxiety

• Helps to breathe better

But remember: before Asana we have the Yamas, and the first Yama is Ahimsa or non-violence, so when we are practicing Asana is important to practice Ahimsa to our bodies in order to prevent physical injuries.

The Asana practice is a beautiful journey and we can enjoy it in fullness if is accompanied by the other Yoga principles.

Bon voyage my friends!

Gaby