Peace and well-being in motion
Asanas - The body as a tool for awareness
Origin and meaning
The word asana literally means “seat” or “posture.” In classical texts, it is mentioned primarily as the stable and comfortable position from which meditation could be practiced. Over time, the range of postures expanded, including movements and positions that help strengthen, purify, and balance the body.
Purpose of asanas
Stability and comfort: practice is described as sthira sukham asanam —a posture that is steady and pleasant.
Preparation for meditation: by releasing tension and balancing the body, the mind finds stillness.
Integration of body and mind: it is emphasized that the goal is not to dominate the body but to inhabit it consciously.
Asanas in modern life
Today, physical practice has become the most common entry point into yoga. Beyond visible benefits—better posture, health, vitality—, asanas encourage an attitude of presence. Each conscious movement, each coordinated breath, turns practice into meditation in action.
Asanas are far more than physical exercises. They serve as tools for cultivating attention, balance, and inner readiness. When practiced with awareness, they not only strengthen the body but also create space for calm and mental clarity. Within the eightfold path, asanas remind us that the body is the starting point for accessing deeper dimensions of yoga.