We must bear in mind that as Yoga is an ancient practice, over the centuries the way of practicing has changed.
Initially (in the Vedic period) asana literally meant sitting. Asana is the seat of the mind, the seat for the mind.
Soon with the vision of Tantra appears an inclusion of the body within the meditation process. Asana is constructed with the mind and projected on the body.
Asana is the space created for the seat of the mind, and the mind becomes the seat of the self of the heart.
In the Indian view the universe arises from the mind, and it is the mind that creates matter.
The body expresses the firmness and stability of the mind (not the other way around). The true nature of the yogi comes from the heart to the mind and the mind to the body.
Asana opens the door to the unconscious, the body goes into harmony with the heart.
Asana should be stable, firm and comfortable. Until you get stability in position you are not exactly in asana. In order to adjust stability it is necessary to develop permanence with respiratory awareness, concentration, self-study. Control over breathing allows better control of all conscious processes. Where your thought goes, your energy goes.
Asana is a powerful exercise of attention and focus. These postures cause the practitioner to immerse himself in his body and be fully focused on it, which is a step towards meditation.
“Sthira sukham ásanam” Patañjali (Yoga Sutra)
‘asana is the posture, firm and comfortable’
Namaste!
Mariana Gelfman
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