Introduction to Yogasana

Question 1

The sage Pantajali, writer of the Yoga-sutras, a categorization of Yogic thought, delivered three concepts:

Answer 1

1. Yoga (Sutras) for serenity and sanctity of mind.
2. Grammar (Sanskrit) for clarity and purity of speech.
3. Medicine (Ayurveda) for perfection of health.

Question 2

Asanas are _________ that stabilizes our body and mind.

Answer 2

Asanas are certain special patterns of postures that
stabilizes our body and mind

Etymology
Asa= asakti, addictions
Na= no

Question 3

Among all the Asanas 4 are important according to Hatha Yoga Tradition:

Answer 3

1. Siddhasana (sitting, cross-legged, feel inside thighs)*
2. Padmasana (sitting, cross-legged sitting, feet on thighs)
3. Simhasana (sitting, kneeling)
4. Bhadrasana (sitting, sole touching)

*this is the best pose

Question 4

Three phases of asana

Answer 4

1. Approach
2. Asana
3. Return

Question 5

Three types of asanas:

Answer 5

1. Meditative
2. Cultural (stretching!)
3. Relaxative

Question 6

Asanas appear in which three texts:

Answer 6

1. Pantajali Yoga Sutras (PYS)
2. Hatha Yoga Pradapika (HYP)
3. Gheranda Samhita (GS)