Alex In ancient yoga worship, there were physical aspects that defined the yoga asanas. When we talk about the various stretches and meditation, we are basically defining this type of yoga .Are there any benefits relating to the yoga asanas?
To start with, the aim of undergoing these forms of poses into help in:
- Stretching
- Twisting
- Flexing
- Meditation
- Boosting blood flow
- Better respiration
- Improved immunity
- Reducing weight
- Better muscle tone
Of course there are many other reasons why people go for the asanas. What is important is that besides the physical benefits, there are mental health benefits as well. The mental ones include the mood improvement, holistic living and general happiness.
Injuries
There are expected to be injuries relating to the asanas though they are few. For instance, stretching too much could have adverse effect on the muscles. You could snap and get a hamstring for example. Breaking a tendon is not uncommon and especially if you are not yet a pro. However, this is not supposed to mean that you should not engage in the yoga asanas. You will need the yoga instructors to help you go through the rigours of the asanas one step at a time. They are easy to learn whereby you will even watch the recommended videos.
Naming
One person could be referring to yoga asanas in different term from the other, though they could be referring to the same thing. As such, you could be talking about the multiple asanas. There are 3 main languages that you will find being used most of the time in regard to the asanas.
English
There are English words that are used to describe the various poses. For instance, there is downward, one, half, single, and lock, supine, twisted and so on. All these have their equivalent in the other languages.
Sanskrit
This is the more familiar Indian dialect for the various yoga asanas. For the non-speakers of the language, the translation is given for easier understanding.
Meanings
Each of the asanas has been attached to a meaning. For instance, adho is downward in the Sanskrit language. It means that in one of the yoga poses, you will be required to make a downward pose. Other examples include:
- Ardha for half
- Eka for one or single
- Bandha for lock
- Sputa for supine
The above are just but a few examples of the common words that are used to describe the asanas.
Poses
No yoga would be complete without the poses. There are various poses that are made when one is engaging in the yoga asanas. Standing asana, twisting asana, downward facing dog among many others. By assuming any of the described poses, you will be trying to achieving certain elements of health benefits. Those who take the cow poses for instance are trying to seek healing from a debilitating back pain.
Who should take part in the asanas?
The truth of the matter is that yoga is for everyone, given the immense benefits it offers.
