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out disciplining the body, it is not possible to control speech or the mind. Because the body is the grossest of the three. That which is gross can be more easily grasped. In the process of meditation and in kayotsarga also, the first consideration is control over the body. The practice of asanas, too, is a kind of body-training.
What posture should one assume while sitting for meditation? There is nothing obligatory about it. Any sadhak can assume any posture at any time, which he finds convenient and comfortable. However, it should be kept in mind that facility in assuming various postures acquired through regular and systematic practice of asanas, can prove extremely convenient to a sadhak during meditation. From this point of view, a few asanas are recommended, such as Ardha-Padmasana, Padmasana, Vajrasana, cross-legged pose, etc. All these are comfortable enough and good for meditation.
Q. Is an asana used for meditation only, or has it other - uses, too? Even people not practising meditation, do yoga asanas regularly. Indeed, some people look upon the doing of asanas as yoga itself. Generally, in the yoga classes, only asanas are taught. Does the word, yoga, signify a whole tradition or merely the exercise of asanas?
Ans. Asanas are essential for meditation. But apart - from that, these are also performed for physical and mental health. The chief cause of bodily and mental illness is the wrong working of the parts of the physical organism. Sloth and over-exertion are the two conditions which upset the bodily system. To prevent such a disorder, the sadhak is given training in asanas. Many asanas are taught which are helpful in controlling the senses and mental perversions. In the method of preksha dhyana, asanas have a distinct place. Besides the asanas
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