Asana is a Sanskrit word that loosely translates as “poses” or “postures” in English. Asana is one of the eight limbs of Ashtanga yoga. When the average Westerner thinks of yoga, they think of the asanas.

It’s great to see that so many Westerners are finding yoga but we also feel that as a result, yoga has become somewhat commercialized and diluted. For example, ask the average Westerner what comes to mind when they think of yoga and their answer might be, “The girl from Lulu Lemon’s advertising.” Or they might associate asana with other “classes” offered at their local gym such as Zumba or pilates.  However, at Lucid Practice, we adhere more to the Eastern approach when viewing asana.

Through the daily, consistent practice of asanas with proper breathing, the practitioner purifies body and mind. You begin to feel a new source of energy and become more aware of your surroundings and your own inner being. We grant ourselves the ability to truly concentrate. The ultimate purpose of asana is to prepare the body and mind for meditation.

Click to read more about our views on the other limbs of yoga specifically the yamas and niyamas.

What’s your definition of asana?