The viniyoga of Āsana – The Role of Āsana – Part 13 of 15

Series

1. The viniyoga of Āsana - The Definition of Āsana according to Haṭha and Rāja Yoga - Part 1 of 15
2. The viniyoga of Āsana - There are Many Approaches to Āsana Practice - Part 2 of 15
3. The viniyoga of Āsana - The Principles used in Constructing an Āsana Practice - Part 3 of 15
4. The viniyoga of Āsana - Considerations around the Direction of Āsana Practice - Part 4 of 15
5. The viniyoga of Āsana - Common Points within the Variables in Āsana Practice - Part 5 of 15
6. The viniyoga of Āsana - Planning an Appropriate Āsana Practice - Part 6 of 15
7. The viniyoga of Āsana - Different Types of Postural Activity in Āsana Practice - Part 7 of 15
8. The viniyoga of Āsana - Voluntary and Involuntary Effects in a students Āsana Practice - Part 8 of 15
9. The viniyoga of Āsana - Responses and Respect - Part 9 of 15
10. The viniyoga of Āsana - Safety Factors - Part 10 of 15
11. The viniyoga of Āsana - Compromise - Part 11 of 15
12. The viniyoga of Āsana - Adaptation of Practice - Part 12 of 15
13. The viniyoga of Āsana - The Role of Āsana - Part 13 of 15 (This post)
14. The viniyoga of Āsana - Summary of Ideas on how to Practice - Part 14 of 15
15. The viniyoga of Āsana - Guidelines to the Practice of Āsana - Part 15 of 15
16. The viniyoga of Āsana - Collective of Parts 1-15

13. The Role of Āsana

Perhaps at this point we need to consider what is the role of the practice of āsana.

For example:

• Ritual

• Physical problem

• Recreational activity

• Self realisation

• Prepare for prāṇāyāma

• Something else

Thus the roles are many.

There is also the negative approach to the practice of āsana.

However āsana practice that promotes well being in the individual must be acceptable and beneficial.

This is one more reason why we should investigate the the principles in practice planning.

• The changes in the body are many

• The changes in the mind are many

How to meet these changes and promote well being in our practice?

The next post will summarise the ideas on how to practice and link to the principles of āsana practice.

Extracts from my notes from my 121 Studies in India with TKV Desikachar whilst resident in Madras 1979-1981.

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