18/02/2026
After being unwell for a few months and not doing much Asana, I really began to think "What is the purpose of 'advanced' or 'complex' poses?".
As the purpose of Asana is to prepare the body for meditation, why do we have an infinite and perhaps growing amount of postures? Do we really need that many, to simply prepare our bodies to sit on a cushion comfortably?
I asked my teacher this, and the answer was "no!"
Of course there are many physical and energetic benefits to come from doing Asana. But sometimes, the Ego can get in the way. Making us always strive for more. Achieving more 'advanced' and difficult poses. But then our practice becomes goal oriented and we have expectations. Attachments. And if we are using all of our strength, willpower and attention to achieve a posture, are we practicing Yoga?
So yes, "simple" Asanas have enough functional benefits to prepare us to sit in a meditative posture.
π