The Eight Limbs of Yoga: Part 4: Asana Explained | Beyond the Poses: Finding Steadiness & Ease

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What if the yoga poses we struggle to perfect aren’t the goal at all? The third limb of Patanjali’s eight-limbed path of yoga—asana—offers a deeper purpose that goes far beyond physical shapes on the mat.

According to the Yoga Sutras, asana is defined with simplicity and wisdom: “sthira sukham asanam” — a posture that is steady and comfortable. This teaching reveals that the real aim of yoga postures is to prepare the body and mind for meditation, not to achieve increasingly difficult poses.

Instead of striving and forcing, Patanjali reminds us that true mastery comes from “relaxation of effort and meditation on the infinite.”

Key Takeaways from This Episode:

• The true meaning of asana in the Yoga Sutras and why it’s more than physical achievement.
• How modern yoga culture often prioritizes difficult postures, while ancient teachings emphasize steadiness and ease.
• Why forcing and straining in yoga can move us further from growth—and how softening brings deeper transformation.
• Personal insights from transitioning from combat sports to yoga and discovering a new approach to strength and awareness.
• How to apply “steady and comfortable posture” in daily life—at your desk, in the car, in the kitchen, or while playing with your kids.
• Practical tools for self-regulation using posture, awareness, and mindfulness throughout the day.

Yoga postures are not about perfection—they’re about presence. Whether you’re sitting in meditation, cooking dinner, or standing in line, embodying the principle of “sthira sukham asanam” can transform ordinary activities into opportunities for mindfulness and spiritual connection.

Ready to rethink your yoga practice and experience the deeper purpose of asana?

Listen now—and join me next week as we explore pranayama, the powerful breathing practices of yoga’s fourth limb.

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Thank you for being part of this unfolding.

—Benita

Chapters

1. Introduction to Asana Series (00:00:00)

2. True Meaning of Asana Explained (00:02:15)

3. Relaxation vs Straining in Practice (00:05:15)

4. Body as Temple: Yoga and Christianity (00:08:15)

5. Practicing Asana in Daily Life (00:10:30)

6. Embodying Yoga Beyond the Mat (00:15:45)

7. Episode Wrap and Next Week Preview (00:19:15)