But in the classical sense, an asana is much more than just a pose. Here is your guide to understanding what asanas are, why they matter, and how to practice them safely. Historically, the Sanskrit word Asana translates to "seat" or "position." In the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (the foundational text of yoga), asana is defined as a steady, comfortable posture used for meditation.

Blocks, straps, and blankets are not cheating; they are intelligence tools. They allow you to access the feeling of the pose without the injury. The Takeaway Asana is the gateway to the rest of yoga. It burns off physical energy, releases stored emotion in the hips and shoulders, and teaches you how to be present with discomfort.

When most people hear the word "yoga," they picture a person twisted into a pretzel or balancing on one hand. That physical shape is called an Asana (pronounced ah-sah-nah ).