Different Aspects of Asanas

The word "asana" means posture or position. This is the most known part of yoga and most times, the only known part of what is yoga. Since it consists of active practice which can bring immediate results, it is the go to part of yoga. However, asana is only one of the tools and the goal of the practice of yoga. We focus only on part of yoga and then wonder why we cannot advance further or are limited in our practice. Yoga is a complete science and a life-style. To take one part of it and try to squeeze it into a single type of practice can be frustrating and gives results which are completely our of context of the original practice.

Dr. M.M.Gore, describes each asana as having two aspects - dynamic and static aspect.

• The dynamic aspect - the dynamic aspect of yoga involves the movement. As you undertake the practice of asana, you need to move into and out of a position. This would be the dynamic part as the practice suggests. The key to doing a proper dynamic practice of going into and out of an asana is to keep in mind that the movement should be slow, steady, and smooth. It is without any strain or jerky movement. It involves a flow that is already a part of your breathing, your heartbeat and involves your whole body and mind.
• The static aspect - The static part of the asana is once the position is assumed. It is the most crucial part of the whole practice. How you maintain yourself in this static aspect determines the benefits which you reap from the asana. The maintaining of the asana should be easy and comfortable and your breathing slow and deep. Your concentration should be on the changes taking place in your body. To keep your mind from wandering, concentration on breathing is essential. 

So, the movement and the maintenance of the asana are both equally important. It is not only that you achieve the final position, but also how you reach it and how you release it once you want to come back!