Yoga Asana Practice
“The body is my temple, asanas are my prayers.
Basic Poses Standing Poses Open Standing Poses Revolved Standing Poses Standing Balancing Poses Core Work and Arm Balances Backbends
Supine Twists and Stretches Seated Twists and Forward Bends Restorative and Relaxation Poses Warm-Ups Cooldown Poses
As described in the first chapter, “yoga” means to yoke, or join. In the physical practice of yoga, we use our bodies to join with our spirit.
Ancient yogis realized how difficult it was to calm the mind, and sought a path to liberation. Ultimately they created the asanas that, along with the breath and awareness, helped bring the mind into focus. Thousands of years later, modern yogis bear witness to these teachings.
In the Yoga Sutras , “asana” is described as a steady and comfortable seat. Cultivating this grounded energy on our mat and out in the world is the magic formula that creates peace. Asana is the true essence of yoga.
The most important part of your yoga practice is not standing on your head. It’s not touching your toes. It’s simply getting on the mat .
Just the act of committing to your practice whether you have 10 minutes or an hour will impact your life. As the great yogic text, the Bhagavad Gita , reminds us: “On this path no effort is wasted, no gain is ever reversed; even a little of this practice will shelter you from great sorrow.”
