Rediscovering Asana: The Deeper Wisdom of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras
Feb 01, 2025
Asana as defined in the Yoga Sutras
Asana, often associated with the physical postures of modern yoga, carries a much deeper significance in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. It can be difficult to figure out the correlation between present day physical asana and original yogic practices. Far beyond the stretches and poses we see in studios and on social media today, Patanjali's perspective on asana is rooted in stillness, stability, and harmony. It is the foundation upon which the journey to self-realization and spiritual growth begins.
In this blog, we'll explore how asana is defined in the Yoga Sutras and uncover its profound role in the broader framework of yoga practice.
Asana in the Eightfold Path
Patanjali introduces asana in the second chapter of the Yoga Sutras, within the framework of the Eight Limbs of Yoga (read more about the eight limbs here)—a structured path leading to spiritual liberation. Asana is presented as a supportive and preparatory practice for the deeper meditative disciplines that follow in his codified teaching and methods of achieving Yoga.
Patanjali defines yoga itself as “the stilling of the fluctuations of the mind, so we can stand in our true form.” This is achieved through two essential principles:
- Abhyasa (Practice): A dedicated, consistent effort toward stilling the mind.
- Vairagya (Dispassion or Detachment): The ability to let go of attachments and distractions that pull us away from our true nature.
While modern yoga often equates “practice” with physical movement—like downward dogs, chaturangas, sweaty vinyasa flows, and handstand inversions—Patanjali’s definition of practice, or Abhyasa, is much deeper. It is a practice of unwavering concentration and inner focus—which sounds much more like meditation than physical exercise, or at a bare minimum, to be very focused.
The Definition of Asana in the Yoga Sutras
Unlike modern interpretations, the Yoga Sutras only mention asana twice among its 196 verses:
- Sutra 2.46: Sthira sukham asanam.
Translation: “Asana is a steady, comfortable posture.” - Sutra 2.47: Prayatna shaithilya ananta samapattibhyam.
Translation: “Such a posture should be attained through the relaxation of effort and by absorption into the infinite.” - Sutra 2.48: Tato dvandva anabhighatah.
Translation: “From this, one is not afflicted by the dualities of opposites.”
These sutras emphasize that through relaxation and focus, asana involves finding a balance between steadiness and comfort, leading to a state where one is unaffected by dualities—where both effort and surrender coexist harmoniously. Nothing is opposing and all things are working together—effort and surrender, focus and detachment, strength and softness, physical matter and spiritual energy.
There are no Yoga Poses offered or suggested or taught in the Yoga Sutras. Asana, in its truest form, is the original posture for all yoga practices: a steady, seated position for meditation.
Asana Beyond Physicality
In today’s yoga culture, asana is often viewed as mainly a physical discipline. However, the deeper purpose of these movements is to prepare the body and mind for meditation. Every pose we practice in modern studios—the breathwork, the focus, the awareness—is ultimately meant to enhance the quality of our seated meditation experience.
The real skills and qualities cultivated in asana practice extend beyond the physical. Instead of measuring success by flexibility or strength, yoga challenges us to develop:
- Self awareness
- Deeper inward connection
- Courageous self-acceptance
- Focus and dedication
- Discipline and resilience
- Effort balanced with surrender
- Acceptance and persistence
True mastery of asana is not about putting your foot behind your head—it’s about cultivating the inner qualities that support spiritual growth.
The Connection Between Body, Breath, and Mind
The interplay between a stable body, controlled breath, and a calm mind is at the heart of asana practice.
When the body is steady, and the breath is regulated, the mind naturally becomes steady. When practiced regularly, this state is called Samatvam—inner equilibrium or steadiness within.
In this steadiness, we become more grounded, resilient, and attuned to the deeper layers of our being. This means we are better situated (seated within our self and divinity) to navigate the ebbs and flows of life with grace and presence.
Modern Yoga vs. Patanjali’s View of Asana
Today, yoga is often framed as a physical achievement. Many students measure progress by how well they perform poses, categorize themselves by levels (beginner, intermediate, advanced, or level 1, 2 or 3), and focus more on aesthetics rather than inner transformation. This emphasis tends to serve the inflation of our ego and not for the growth of our spiritual journey and personal development.
But in truth, yoga is not about how well you do the poses—it’s about how you show up for yourself within them.
Your yoga practice should:
- Help you connect more deeply with yourself.
- Shift the way you show up in your daily life.
- Cultivate awareness of your inner world—your thoughts, reactions, and self-talk.
Rather than focusing on achieving the “perfect pose” or doing a “trendy exercise,” ask yourself:
- Am I practicing with intention?
- Am I bringing my awareness inward?
- How am I treating myself in moments of challenge?
Our physical yoga practice is meant to give us a strong, flexible body, and a focused mind so that we can practice meditation, experience deeper self awareness, stronger self connection, and a more potent experience with Divinity within. But as we practice asana, we can also experience a type of meditation that brings that awareness of self to the surface; we can see how much we resist, how much we compare, how much we complain, or how much we degrade ourselves and deem ourselves unworthy or not enough.
It’s in this self-awareness that true transformation happens. When we observe our mental patterns—our resistance, self-judgment, and inner dialogue—we create the space to shift them.
This is the magic of yoga: it is not about external perfection, but about internal evolution. It's about the steadiness of your mind and willingness of spirit as you are in your progress of growth and unfolding of the True Self.
The True Purpose of Asana: A Pathway to Meditation
Ultimately, Patanjali taught that asana exists to support meditation. It is through meditation that we experience the greatest neurological, emotional, and spiritual benefits of yoga.
Scientific research over the last 20-30 years has begun to uncover the profound effects of meditation on the brain—validating what yogis have known for thousands of years. When practiced consistently, meditation enhances mental clarity, emotional regulation, and spiritual connection.
So as you step onto your mat, remember:
- Your asana practice is a preparation for deep meditation.
- Every breath, every movement, and every still moment is guiding you toward a steady mind and a connected spirit.
- True yoga is about being in this world, but not so attached to and disturbed by its distractions—staying rooted in the source of it all.
We are here to support your inner discovery!
Ready to Explore the True Depth of Asana Beyond the Mat?
WE INVITE YOU TO JOIN US IN OUR DONATION-BASED YOGA STUDIO
This is where the true spirit of yoga is alive and accessible to all bodies, regardless of experience or background. By offering a space rooted in inclusivity, we create an environment where everyone can experience the transformative power of yoga, regardless of financial means.
Come as you are, and together, let’s grow, connect, and cultivate peace within. Join us on the mat today, and support the movement to keep yoga accessible for all.Â
JOIN THE MOVEMENT
STAY CONNECTED & INSPIRED
Join our community to get exclusive updates, inspirational content, and special offers. Your journey to wellness starts here!