The
word asana is commonly translated as "posture",
but its literal meaning is "seat", referring particurly
to meditation postures, which promote concentration of the mind.
Since a healthy body is important for meditation, ancient yogis
devised many different postures (part of the system of Hatha Yoga)
to make the body strong. sound, and flexible.
Asanas
help to balance the physical body by regulating glandural secretions,
toning muscles and nerves, massaging internal organs, and improving
circulation and digestion. Although asanas are not intended to
build large muscles, they do make the body strong, flexible, &
proportionate; thin bodies are developed, while unnecessary fat
is reduced. Asanas increase endurance, will power, and resistance
to disease. Through regular practice the mind becomes calm and
undesirable thoughts gradually diminish.
Primarily, however, asanas function as a stimulant
to the subtle body. They purify the subtle energy channels (nadis)
and strengthen all fivevital
energies (pranas). They direct the flow of prana upward, aiding
in the awaking of kundalini, the great reservoir of spiritual
energy situated at the base of the spine.
Continue
(Pranayama)
| The
Eight Limbs of Ashtanga Yoga |
