Suppose you have ever wondered and researched briefly; you must have noticed that there are countless answers to the question ‘What is Yoga?’. I think we should also discuss what it is not, and the first subject I want to cover is that Yoga is not an exercise.

So what is exercise?

If we are to explain what exercise is roughly, they are regular physical activities done to achieve set goals such as improving endurance and strength, reducing body fat percentage and so on. During these exercises, heart rate increases to higher levels than normal, metabolic rate rises, breathing accelerates, and oxygen consumption increases.

During exercise, the sympathetic nervous system is activated to create beneficial stress on the body, also known as the ‘flight or fight’ mode. In yoga practice, however, the target is the para-sympathetic nervous system, in other words, the ‘rest and digest’ state. Mastering a yoga pose, or asana, means being able to stay in the posture effortlessly.

What actually happens during Yoga?

With asana practices, the ability to use the body improves. We actually learn to use our existing power by increasing awareness and concentration and relaxing the body. Through stretching the connective tissue, we begin to better access the potential of the muscle with the help of the energy coming from the relaxed tissue without increasing muscle density.

Asana practice and exercise are not interchangeable, but they complement each other. By the way, the word asana is commonly used as a pose/posture, but if we translate it literally, it means seat/to sit. 

Well then, does Yoga consist of poses only?

   Asanas are the main reason why Yoga is mistaken for exercise, but actually asana practice is preparation for meditation. According to Patanjali, asanas are only about training the body not to disturb the mind during meditation. In his best-known work, Yoga Sutras, only three of the 195(196) sutras mention asana, and what is meant are meditation poses like Sukhasana. This doesn’t show us that asanas are unimportant but that Yoga is so much more.

Sthira: Firm, steady, strong.

Sukha: Comfort, convenience, well-being.

Asana: To sit, seat.

1. Raja Yoga: A physical posture in which a person feels comfortable and in harmony with themselves.
2. Hatha Yoga: Specific postures to direct energy (prana), balance the chakras and remove energy blockages.