Asana: meaning, definitions and examples
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asana
[ əˈsɑː.nə ]
yoga practice
An asana is a physical posture or position taken during yoga practice, which is intended to improve physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Each asana is designed to be held for a certain duration, encouraging the practitioner to achieve stability, strength, and relaxation. There are many different asanas, each with its own benefits and challenges.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She practiced her morning asanas to start the day with energy.
- The yoga teacher demonstrated the tree asana for better balance.
- Many athletes incorporate asanas to improve flexibility.
meditative state
In a broader spiritual context, an asana can refer to any seated position that supports meditation and enables the practitioner to focus inwardly. The right asana helps align the body, creating a stable base for deep meditation and personal insight.
Synonyms
meditative position, seat.
Examples of usage
- Meditators often sit in a comfortable asana for deep reflection.
- Finding the right asana is essential for a productive meditation session.
Etymology
The term 'asana' originates from the ancient Indian language of Sanskrit, where it initially meant 'seat' or 'throne.' The word has its roots in the Sanskrit verb 'ās,' which translates to 'to sit' or 'to remain.' As yoga practices evolved, particularly from the early texts such as the Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, asanas became an integral part of both physical postures and meditative practices. Originally, asanas were simply meant to facilitate long periods of meditation, allowing practitioners to sit comfortably without distraction. Over the centuries, the concept of asanas expanded significantly, particularly with the influence of modern yoga schools, leading to a wide variety of postures practiced today. Anas, therefore, highlights not only the physical aspect of yoga but also emphasizes its spiritual and mental components.