Āsana
[AH-sah-nah]Asana
What is an asana?
Asana (Sanskrit: āsana, आसन) literally means "seat" or "manner of sitting" and is the third limb of the eight limbs of yoga described by Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras. In the classical text, asana is defined as "a steady and comfortable position" (sthira sukham āsanam — Yoga Sutra II.46). In the modern context, the term encompasses all physical postures practiced in yoga — from simple standing positions to complex inversions. B.K.S. Iyengar, in his foundational book "Light on Yoga" (1966), describes and demonstrates over 200 asanas with detailed alignment instructions. Iyengar emphasized that asana is not merely physical exercise — it is meditation in action, where the body, mind, and breath work together. Correct practice of asanas develops physical strength and flexibility while also cultivating inner resilience and concentration.
Asana in the Iyengar Tradition
In the Iyengar method, asanas are performed with extraordinary attention to bodily alignment. Every joint angle, every muscular action, and every direction of energy is precisely defined. This makes the method suitable for all ages and levels, as props (blocks, straps, blankets, chairs) allow adaptation of every pose. Iyengar believed that through sustained holding of asanas, the body becomes an instrument for self-knowledge.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many asanas are there in yoga?
Traditional texts mention 84 classical asanas, but B.K.S. Iyengar describes over 200 in "Light on Yoga." Today the number of variations and modifications is much larger, but what matters is the quality of practice, not the quantity of poses.
Do I need to be flexible to practice asanas?
No. Flexibility is a result of practice, not a prerequisite. The Iyengar method uses props precisely to make asanas accessible to everyone, regardless of physical level.
What is the difference between an asana and an exercise?
While exercise focuses primarily on the physical body, asana unites body, mind, and breath. In asana, the practitioner develops awareness and inner observation, making it a form of moving meditation.
Related Terms
Vinyasa
Vinyasa means "to place in a special way" and describes the flowing transition between poses synchronized with breathing in yoga.
Alignment
Alignment is the precise positioning of the body in yoga poses — a core principle of the Iyengar method for safe and effective practice.
Drishti
Drishti is the technique of directing the gaze toward a specific point during yoga practice, deepening concentration and inner awareness.
Related Poses
Mountain Pose
Tadasana is the foundation of all standing poses in Iyengar yoga. Learn proper alignment, how to activate the legs and lengthen the spine.
Downward-Facing Dog
Adho Mukha Svanasana is one of the most important poses in yoga — it simultaneously strengthens, stretches, and calms. Learn proper Iyengar alignment.
Corpse Pose
Savasana is the most important and most difficult pose in yoga — complete relaxation of body and mind. Learn the proper Iyengar technique for deep relaxation.