So many of us in the Western world are first introduced to yoga through asana (physical postures and movements). Often, the asanas portrayed online or in yoga classes can seem unattainable, and a huge weight is placed on the importance of their aesthetic. As a new yoga practitioner, I initially felt that I had to reach a certain level of flexibility and strength or perform certain asanas in their ‘full’ version. I solely focussed on the achievement of physical goals until I began to take my practice off the mat.
"The success of Yoga does not lie in the ability to perform postures but in how it positively changes the way we live our life and our relationships.” ― T.K.V. Desikachar
While asana is a fundamental part of the practice, it is only one of Patangali’s Eight Limbs of Yoga. Patanjali outlined the Eight Limbs as a comprehensive teaching towards self-realisation and samadhi (the final stage of enlightenment and understanding). In the text, The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, only three sutras reference asana and the rest are centered around the other eight limbs. In this context, asana simply means ‘seat’ and the simple instruction that Patanjali gives for this is “sthira sukham asanam”, meaning the posture should be steady and comfortable.
Yoga has evolved to become an often active and physically challenging practice and, particularly in Western yoga classes, there is little focus on the rest of the Eight Limbs of Yoga. However, there is vast depth to this ancient tradition that extends beyond asana, which can lead to a transformational journey of self-discovery.
Yoga Philosophy
Yoga is a philosophical system at its heart, and honouring the roots and traditions that have led to the yoga we know today, is inherent to deepening our spiritual practice and yoga journey beyond asana. Understanding and incorporating the philosophical teachings of yoga into our daily lives can transform our values, moral compass, and sense of purpose.
“True yoga is not about the shape of your body, but the shape of your life. Yoga is not to be performed; yoga is to be lived.” — Aadil Palkhivala
The Yoga Sutras outline an ethical framework for lifestyle values (yamas and niyamas) to journey towards spiritual growth. These teachings provide direction on how to live a yogic lifestyle that extends past asana. The yamas and niyamas emphasise moral principles to live by, such as non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness (satya), and duties or habits including discipline (tapas), contentment (santosha), and self-study (svadhyaya). Using these teachings as a lifestyle guide embodies the practice of yoga to its core.
Pranayama
Pranayama can be translated from Sanskrit as ‘life force’ (prana) ‘extension’ (ayama). Prana is our life force, an energy that moves through the channels in our bodies and universally. Pranayama is a yogic practice to control and extend the breath, which subsequently regulates prana around our bodies.
There are countless Pranayama practices that work to balance the energy in the body, calm the anxiety or stress, and increase mindfulness. Additionally, there can be a multitude of physical health benefits, which may include improved lung function, reduced blood pressure, and balancing the nervous system. Pranayama can be a transformative and spiritual practice on its own, or when paired with asana or meditation it provides a deeper layer to our yoga practice.
Meditation
“Yogas chitta vritti nirodha” is Patanjali’s definition of yoga, which is often translated to ‘yoga is the stilling of the fluctuations of the mind’. Meditation embodies this principle and has been used for thousands of years as a transformative spiritual practice. Whereas some asanas may not be physically accessible to everyone, meditation can be practiced by anyone. A fully accessible, spiritual, and mindful practice, meditation allows us to observe our thoughts and emotions, spending time still and present. As a meditation practice evolves, it can deepen self-awareness, understanding, and inner peace.
There are several types of meditation that you can utilise, including visualisation, mantra meditation, or guided meditation - all you need is a comfortable seat and a quiet space!
Self-Awareness
Discovering a yoga practice that is deeper than asana invites a profound sense of self-awareness. Through these ancient practices, we are encouraged to look inward and explore the depths of our mind, body, and spirit. Svadhyaya (self-study), can include journaling, intention setting, or gratitude. These practices heighten our sense of self-awareness by identifying our areas of growth, personal values, and future paths. Spending time with these mindful practices leads to a deeper sense of self-love and understanding.
Why delve deeper than Asana to further your spiritual yoga journey?
Delving into a spiritual journey deeper than asana and exploring the Eight Limbs of Yoga can be the beginning of a journey towards self-realisation, acceptance, and inner peace - allowing yourself to break free from limiting behaviours and beliefs.
Whilst asana is a powerful tool and undeniably beneficial for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, the true potential of a transformative yoga practice lies in embodying yoga as a holistic lifestyle, both on and off the mat.
Further reading
The Yamas & Niyamas: Exploring Yoga's Ethical Practice Deborah Adele
Four Chapters on Freedom: Commentary on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali Saraswati Swami Satyananda
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