Asanas: When soul, body and heart work in tandem, effects are remarkable

Each movement is performed slowly with a heightened consciousness of what is happening the head. Then you are not just doing it, but you are in it. Many people try to think their way into an asana, but you must instead feel your way into it through love and devotion.” 

Asanas are effective when the heart, mind and body work in unison. Each movement is performed slowly with a heightened consciousness of what is happening. If asanas are practiced with a meditative mind, there will be many advantages, not just physical ones. 

Asanas maintain the flexibility of the spinal vertebrae, and this is important for healthy movement and is the key to the body’s overall plasticity. In yogic terminology, this leads to the free flow of energy along the spinal column. And what do we do with that free flowing energy? It is drawn inwards in Pratyahara, the fifth limb of Patanjali. Asanas also stretch and tone the fasciae, the connective tissue that is found throughout the body. The fasciae hold the muscles together in the correct place, separate them so they work independently of each other and provide a lubricated surface so that the muscles move smoothly. 

As the field of Hatha Yoga continues to expand and develop, there are so many asanas being taught today. Here are seven common ones, along with some of the health benefits they offer, just to give you a taste of how the yogic science of asanas has evolved: Tadasana is for general stretching and for blood circulation in the body. It also helps with knee pain, calcium deposits such as spurs, and cramps. It increases balance, both physical and mental. It is also good for Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Veerabhadrasana is for the neck, shoulders and backaches. It also helps with chest expansion, asthma, and cancer (as oxygen levels go up). It improves confidence.

If asanas are practiced with a meditative mind, there will be many advantages, not just physical ones.

Parsva Uthanasana aids digestion and improves the flexibility of the back and of the hamstring muscles. It brings calm and a purpose.

Dvipada Pitham is for blood pressure management, both low BP and high BP (but with some variation). It also helps relieve headache, as well as toning the back, knees, shoulders and calf muscles. It supports balance and confidence.

Mahamudra opens the pelvic region, and is good for reproductive health. It supports concentration and calms the mind. Is excellent for pregnant women.

Suryanamaskar helps to manage diabetes and thyroid problems. It brings confidence and activates the whole nervous system.

The most important thing to remember is that Ashtanga Yoga is a complete package. It was not designed for us to pick and choose any of the eight limbs at whim. To really benefit from asana, the soul, heart and mind must be very much involved. You can start anywhere, but if you are serious in your wish to grow, the rest will eventually follow.

Kamlesh D Patel is the fourth spiritual Guide in the Sahaj Marg system of Raja Yoga meditation. He is a role model for students of spirituality who seek that perfect blend of eastern heart and western mind. He travels extensively and is at home with people from all backgrounds and walks of life, giving special attention to the youth of today.