Asana—The Gateway to Yoga
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What better way to begin this season than with asana? For many, asana is the first encounter with yoga, often viewed as the entirety of the practice.
Whilst it’s only one facet of the yoga tradition, it’s an accessible and powerful starting point.
What is Asana?
The term “asana” literally means "seat" or "to sit." Traditionally, it referred to seated postures designed for meditation. Over time, its meaning has expanded to encompass the dynamic and diverse physical postures we see today.
However, it’s important to differentiate: yoga is a state of awareness, a harmony of mind and being. Asana is one of the tools—a technique—to arrive at that state. By engaging the body through posture and movement, asana provides a tangible way to experience yoga. It allows practitioners to focus, centre their minds, and prepare for deeper states of meditation and self-awareness.
A Brief History of Asana
Early Origins
In the earliest texts like the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (3-500CE), asana was described simply as a comfortable, steady seat for meditation. The Sutras emphasise yoga as a state of awareness, with asana being just one of the eight limbs of the practice. Early references describe only a handful of seated postures.
Evolution Through Hatha Yoga
During the Hatha Yoga period (circa 1500 CE), the practice of asana expanded. Texts like the Hatha Yoga Pradipika and Gheranda Samhita listed 84 asanas, introducing standing poses, balancing postures, and more dynamic movements. Still, the focus was on preparing the body for meditation and spiritual awakening.
The Modern Era
The past century has seen asana evolve dramatically, influenced by global exercise culture and the teachings of pivotal figures like Krishnamacharya. His students, Pattabhi Jois (Ashtanga Yoga) and B.K.S. Iyengar (Iyengar Yoga), adapted asana to meet modern needs, creating styles that emphasise strength, alignment, and dynamic movement. Their teachings have profoundly shaped contemporary yoga, merging tradition with innovation.
Asana in Modern Practice
Today, asana often takes centre stage in yoga studios worldwide. While it’s a powerful tool for physical health and mental clarity, it’s essential to remember its roots and purpose. Asana isn’t the destination—it’s the bridge to deeper states of awareness.
When we practice asana mindfully, focusing on breath, alignment, and intention, the body becomes a seat for the mind, and the mind finds stillness. This integration is where the magic of yoga unfolds.
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Exploring the Bhavana of Asanas
Each asana carries a unique bhavana or mood, deeply rooted in its name and symbolism. For instance:
Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward Facing Dog): Embody the stretch and grounding of a dog. Observe the sense of playful exploration and curiosity.
Vrikshasana (Tree Pose): Reflect on the strength and steadiness of a tree. Feel rooted and balanced while reaching upward toward growth.
Understanding the story or intention behind each pose can deepen your practice. Let your asanas become an expression of their symbolism, cultivating mindfulness and creativity.
Practical Insights for Your Practice
Here are some ways to enrich your experience with asana:
Focus Your Gaze (Drishti): Whether it’s a mark on the wall or an internal focus point, having a consistent gaze helps concentrate the mind.
Integrate the Breath: Align each movement with your breath to make your practice meditative and harmonious.
Adapt for Your Needs: Remember, asana can serve as exercise (Vyama), therapy (Chikitsa), or meditation (Dhyana). Choose your intention for the practice.
Want to Learn More?
Listen to the full episode, Asana—the Gateway to Yoga, on the Om Som Yoga & Ayurveda podcast for a deeper understanding of asana’s place within yoga practice.
Ready to deepen your asana practice? Join our upcoming 200 Hr Hatha Yoga Teacher Training (October 2025) — six months of nourishing asana, meditation, and Ayurvedic wisdom designed to help you cultivate a healthy body, calm mind and a strong purpose.
