Unlike physical exercise, asana combines awareness and breath to move us into an experience of ourselves, which is far more profound.
Asanas activate, tone and revitalize the organs, massage the joints, stretch and relax the muscles, optimize endocrine gland secretions, develop stamina and promote internal awareness. They bestow mental poise, help to control the emotions and confer spiritual benefits.
Asanas are not just mechanical performances. Concentration, awareness and relaxation are integral parts of performing asanas.
If a combination of asanas is practiced, it will prevent decay of the body and mind, keep you young and give you complete mental and physical equilibrium.
When you do asanas, the digestive system, respiratory system, the spinal cord, all the subtle nerves and the dormant glands begin to function normally and in order.
Yoga balances, harmonizes and brings integration between physical and mental health. The definition of asana in traditional text is ‘sthiram sukham asanam.’ The word sthiram means homeostasis, balance; sukham means pleasure; and asanam means physical posture. It is the posture that produces homeostasis in the system – restores endocrinal balance, balances the inhibitors and stimulator circuits, regulates secretions and optimizes the functions of the entire system of the body. Sukham also relates to the state of mind, which is relaxed. Muscles contain stretch receptors; the stretching movements of asanas send relaxing impulses to the brain, which induce a relaxed state of mind.
Asanas control the functions of the glands and nerves, make the body flexible and help to keep the spinal cord in a healthy condition. The health of the spinal cord is very important, as it is the abode and upward passage of sushumna nadi.
The best time to practice asanas is in the morning after bathing and before breakfast. In the evenings, too one can practice asanas but on an empty stomach.
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