Sobika Rao

By Sobika Rao and Rameswar Pal

The term “Yoga” is derived from the Sanskrit root “Yuj,” which translates to “to join,” “to yoke,” or “to unite.” Its global appeal stems from its evidence-based holistic approach. Today, a robust scientific consensus exists on the therapeutic benefits of Yoga, supported by a burgeoning body of research. Various Yogic practices, including asana (physical postures), pranayama (breath control), and dhyana (meditation), offer multifaceted health advantages. Yogasana, a cornerstone of Yoga, integrates physical postures with controlled breathing techniques to enhance physiological, psychological, and emotional well-being. As the third limb of Ashtanga Yoga, Yogasana yields diverse physiological effects, from cellular modulation to systemic improvements across the human body. Sukshma vyama, a subset of Yogasana, promotes localized blood circulation and facilitates articulation in synovial joints, thereby optimizing biomechanical alignment and mitigating muscular imbalances. Moreover, Yogasana induces slower, deeper breathing patterns, eliciting a predominant activation of the parasympathetic nervous system, which is crucial for stress management in modern society. Specific asanas stimulate digestive functions, facilitating the absorption and elimination of metabolic waste products, thereby fostering gastrointestinal health and optimizing the gut-brain axis. This chapter offers a comprehensive synthesis of scientific literature elucidating the physiological and psychological effects of Yogasana practice, providing an empirically grounded understanding of its therapeutic potential.

Part of the book: Yoga