Yoga Vijnana or The Ancient Science Of Yoga

There are many meanings of the word ASANA available in the Lexicography as well as the etymology. But here the word ASANA has a specific reference. Herein the word ASANA is used as a technical term in the HATHAYOGA lore. (Hathayoga is a particular mode of Yoga of practicing abstract mediation. The name has a sense of difficulty in practicing it) in the science of Yoga any particular gestures or postures of one's body are called ASANAS. For practicing Yoga one's body is the chief and most important instrument. Some of the yogic ASANAS are found in the form of KARANAS in dancing. For achieving spiritual ends the aspirant has to achieve physical fitness and for this, such a physical mode of the body is a must wherein there is steadiness as well as absence of disturbance of any sort. Keeping these characteristics in view the ASANA is defined by Patanjali as an ASANA is one where there is stediness and comfort. Such an ASANA is an instrument of YOGA. These ASANAS are of two kinds: 1. Kus'a-Blanket-Hide-cloth etc. these are external or material ASANAS. 2. Padmasana, Siddhasana, Svastikasana etc. These are to be practiced by body. I.e. Physical ASANAS.