Many yoga practitioners seek ways to enhance their asana practice, aiming for greater flexibility, grace, and ease. The answer to this quest can be found in the Yoga Sutras of Maharshi Patanjali.
In the 47th sutra of the second chapter, Patanjali unveils the secret to a successful asana practice. To understand it fully, let’s break down the key terms:
- Prayatna: “Yatna” means effort, and “Pra” is a prefix indicating extra or more than necessary effort.
- Shaithilya: Derived from “Shithila,” meaning loose, it refers to loosening, releasing, or eliminating unnecessary effort.
- Prayatna-Shaithilya: This term means letting go of unnecessary effort.
- Ananta: “Anta” means end, while “Ananta” translates to endless or infinite.
- Samāpatti: Refers to deep focus or contemplation.
Thus, Ananta-Samapatti signifies endless or undisturbed focus. Any posture becomes more than mere exercise, like aerobics or gymnastics, when it’s combined with effortless, focused breathing, free from the disturbances of thought.
Why Extra Effort Should Be Avoided in Asana Practice
Excessive effort can interfere with both your breathing and mental state, leading to physical strain and distracting thoughts.
How to Avoid Extra Effort in Asana Practice
Before Practice:
- Wake up early and ease into your morning routine. Avoid rushing.
- Plan a schedule to ensure you’re not hurried before your practice.
During Practice:
- Tune into your physical state before starting each session.
- Focus on balancing your breath from the beginning.
- Slow your thoughts by connecting them with your breath.
- Respect your body’s limitations and choose asanas accordingly.
- Hold each pose with mindful, steady breathing and aligned thoughts.
After Practice:
- Avoid rushing off the mat immediately after asanas.
- Dedicate sufficient time to Shavasana, allowing your body to absorb the benefits of your practice.
- Transition out of Shavasana slowly, paying attention to your breath and thoughts.
- End with pranayama and a few moments of quiet concentration on a mantra or your breath.
Regular, mindful practice leads to mental clarity and physical ease, allowing the asanas to blossom each time you practice.
