The Classification of Yoga Postures

Summary: Check out the various categories into which yoga postures can be categorized basis their application. Yoga postures or Yoga asanas are refined stretches that balance and unclutter the body and mind. They can be defined as comfortable and steady positions in which a body moves slowly and gently to seep into the desired position resulting in multifaceted benefits. From regulating, improving the functioning of vital organs of the body to enhancing stamina, strength, flexibility and calming the buzzing mind, the benefits of yoga asanas are endless. Each yoga posture has its own unique benefits. Various asanas benefit more than one part of the body simultaneously. If you are thinking of starting a yoga practice, you may get confused where to begin and, which pose would benefit you the most. Amidst an extensive range of yoga postures, to choose the right poses can be daunting. In such a scenario, classifying yoga postures into specific categories can make your task easy and help you start off on the right path. Yoga postures can be classified in various ways based on their uses, positions, levels of practice, etc. But if you are looking for yoga postures with specific purposes, take a look at the categories based on applications and choose the one that serves your purpose: 1. Cultural Yoga Postures: Yoga poses that help to stretch the body from different angles and directions are known as cultural yoga poses. The main application of these yoga postures is to release tension from all parts of the body by activating specific muscles, nerves, and tendons.The benefits of cultural yoga poses are not restricted to the muscles and joints. Cultural yoga asanas regulate and stimulate the functioning of the internal organs, resulting in increased suppleness and strength in the body. These yoga poses have therapeutic benefits as well. They help prevent and cure various physical conditions such as backache, shoulder pain, muscle stiffness, etc. They enhance physical well being of a person and provide a great sense of control. Cultural yoga poses include forward bend along with backbends, twists, balancing, inversion, and extension poses. Poses like Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend), Dhanurasana (Bow Pose), Bhujangasana (Cobra pose), Vrksasana (Tree pose), Shirshasana (Headstand), Ardha Matsyendrasana (Seated twisting), etc. fall in the category of cultural poses.

2. Relaxation poses: The application of these poses is to provide deep rest to the mind and body, in between or after performing cultural poses. The two most recognized poses for relaxation are Shavasana (Corpse Pose) and Makarasana (Crocodile Pose). Generally, Hatha yoga sessions end with Savasana as it provides deep rest and relaxation on all levels. Practicing relaxation postures even for a few minutes makes the practitioner feel relaxed and rejuvenated. This pose has great therapeutic benefit and, is highly recommended for people suffering from high blood pressure, insomnia, etc. On the other hand, Makarasana is extremely beneficial for diaphragm. It activates and stimulates diaphragm breathing by strengthening it. Breathing in the right way promotes healthy and joyful living. Makrasana is quite beneficial for people who breathe through the chest. Breathing through chest causes anxiety and tension in the body.

3. Meditative postures: Cultural poses and relaxation poses in combination prepare the body for meditative postures. Meditative postures allow the mind to be peaceful, relaxed and focused by providing good stability and comfort to the body. Physical stability is complementary to comfort and vice versa. Meditative postures provide physical stability in order to bring great comfort. They help to keep the back erect by maintaining curve of the spine. With straight back, our diaphragm moves freely, clearing all the blockages in the energy flow during meditation. Sitting comfortably in meditative postures increases the blood flow in the lower body to the legs, pelvic and abdominal region. Yoga postures such as Padmasana (Lotus Pose), Vajrasana( Thunderbolt pose), Siddhasana (Perfect Pose), Swastikasana (Auspicious Pose), etc, come into the category of Meditative postures. These postures stabilize the body and mind for meditative practices and Pranayama. What is your purpose? Find out and get started with the right yoga postures to reap the maximum benefits.

The Author is a passionate Yogi, traveler and Yoga Teacher in Delhi. He loves writing and reading the books related to yoga, health, nature and the Himalayas.