Why practice asana?  In the Western world where we have been conditioned to believe that we are the body and mind, one may say we practice yoga to lengthen our muscles, build strength, and get toned.  While these are, no doubt, visible benefits of the practice, it is vital that we understand this component of yoga for what it truly is: something powerful, far beyond any changes in the physical body.  Although it may not be realized on a conscious level, many new yoga students take up the practice because they are suffering; they want to feel better.  The root of most suffering is avidya, or ignorance of the true Self (which is God, the Divine, or oneness).  Asana is wonderful in that it provides us with a fairly concrete way to bring structure to our desire for yoga, or oneness, in order to melt away feelings of separateness. By engaging in a vigorous, consistent asana practice and devoting our efforts and energy to God, we begin to release identifications with sensations in the body and the citta vrtti (mind fluctuations).  The Sanskrit word asana translates to “seat”.  When we sit, we establish a connection to the earth.  Therefore, in practicing asana, we are deepening and strengthening our connection to Mother Earth and everything that lives here.  Once asana becomes a more familiar action, we build a more earnest understanding of how we are directing prana, the vital life force, by moving our bodies in certain ways.  As an intermediate-advanced practitioner, subtle energetic work with pranayama, the bandhas, and meditation can (and should) become components of yoga practice.  Asana practice is just a slice of the delicious pie of yoga, or oneness.  It is once we move beyond understanding asana as simply a physical activity, that we can truly begin to transcend manifestations of avidya and move closer toward the ultimate goal of yoga.

-JRH