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How Asanas Work

• The Asanas are primarily based on five principles.

• Using gravity. The inverted postures such as the headstand, shoulder stand and the reverse posture take advantage of gravity to increase the movement of blood to the desired part of the body; in the headstand to the brain, within the shoulder stand to the thyroid gland and in the reverse posture to the gonads (intercourse glands).

• Organ massage. The place of the asana causes a squeezing motion on a particular organ or gland, ensuing in the stimulation of that a part of the body.

• Stretching muscular tissues and ligaments. This causes a rise in blood supply to the muscles and ligaments as well as stress-free them. It additionally takes stress off nerves within the area.

• This stretching is involved in all the Asanas, since it has such a helpful impact on the body.

• Deep breathing. Whereas holding the yoga posture we breathe slowly and deeply, moving the stomach solely (abdominal or low respiration). This will increase the oxygen and prana supply to the target organ or gland, thereby enhancing the effect of the asana.

• Concentration. As well as breathing slowly and deeply, we also focus our attention on the target organ or gland. This brings the thoughts into play, and tremendously will increase the circulation and prana provide to the organ or gland.

• This concentration has the second benefit of increasing your common powers of focus by means of regular practice. This benefits every facet of your life. Your mind is much less distracted and swayed by external occasions and you're therefore calmer and worry less. You will be able to solve day-to-day issues higher and have extra success in whatever exercise you undertake.