While the asanas have progressed and moved from merely
sitting to much, more variant forms of postures and poses,
asanas have developed into standing postures, inversions,
and supine-position asanas. (Source)
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When you "assume the position" in yoga, you are taking on asanas, a body position intended to restore and maintain a practitioner's well-being, improve the body's limber nature and encourage the body's ability to maintain meditation for longer periods of time.
In Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, he suggests asanas be defined as being "seated in a position that is firm, but relaxed". Since Patanjali, asanas have progressed and moved from merely sitting to much, more variant forms of postures and poses. Asanas have developed into standing postures, inversions and supine-position asanas, all categorized in the third of eight limbs of Raja Yoga, according to Patanjali.
The emphasis of the physical part of yoga has given rise to the perception that yoga, in totality, consists only of asana practice; however, yoga includes the incorporation of yoga into pranayama (breath) and other practices. While asanas are rooted in yogic traditions, it is common in the West to find them for use of exercise and alternate medicine.
In the last five years, the practice of asana yoga, or "Hatha Yoga", has developed into competitive formats. Bikram Choudhury, the driving force behind yoga going competitive, wants to take it even further - To the Olympics. In competitions, yogis and yoginis enter the spotlight on a carpet-covered stage and have three minutes to run through seven asanas in front of a panel of judges. Yoga Competitors are judged based on alignment, grace, stability, confidence, balance and presence. To read more about competitive yoga, click here for Yoga 101: What is Competitive Yoga?.
Benefits of Physical Practice of Yoga: Asana
Muscle flexibility
Tendon strength
Stamina
Improved respiratory function
Evidence to suggest control of blood pressure
Improved circulatory health
Ease stress and stress-related health issues
Improve concentration
Assist with dieting and weight-control
Asana Variations
Book | Complete Illustrated Book of Yoga, Swami Vishnu-devananda
Book | Asanas: 608 Poses by Dharma Mittra
Online Article | Yogasanas: The postures of spirituality
YogaJournal.com | Yoga Poses: A library of poses
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Comments
Love the short, sweet explanation of what is asana. I wonder if the taking yoga further into the competitive sphere is somewhat anti-yoga. More of a personal be your best practise, not a push harder to get the gold scenario.
Hey DonnaK:
Thanks for the comment. It's very intriguing to me and while I haven't quite "taken a side" I can see both sides to the confrontation on yoga competition. I will keep this site posted with the latest updates to keep BOTH sides informed and appreciate your reads!
All my love,
Jordann
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