Asana: The 3rd Limb of Yoga

The body is the bow. The asana is the arrow. The soul is the target.

Asana is the 3rd limb of Patanjali's 8 Limbs of Yoga. "Asana" is a Sanskrit word which translates into the English word "seat," as the physical postures (asanas) were originally designed and intended to prepare the physical body so it could sit comfortably in seated meditation.

Sometimes students get very mired in this part of the practice, especially when they are just beginning their yoga journey. They come to their mat thinking they are not flexible enough or strong enough or "good" enough. But with a commitment and dedication to the practice, most students begin to see how the asanas are truly just the gateway to more elevated moments of awareness and deeper transformation, which makes this 4th Limb an important step on the yoga pathway.

Letting go is the hardest asana.

The extent of teacher's knowledge when it comes to intelligent sequencing and functional movement is key in the way the asanas feel physically and energetically. Each posture has its own intention and each transition should be anatomically smart, fluid, cohesive, and conducive to sustaining a long-term practice. A breath-centered carefully designed sequence that honors and adapts to the students who are present in the room is integral when it comes to a student's ability to trust, surrender, and ultimately experience an inward and meditative practice.

This is what we specialize in: Offering safe, mindful, intelligent sequencing that makes sense anatomically and feels good physically and energetically so that you can expand into and explore all of the rich and beautiful layers of a holistic yoga practice...for life.

Practice with us and see what you think.

In love and devotion,

Lisa and Kevin McCormack Owners of Black Cat Yoga Black Cat Yoga began with a simple idea: bring people together through yoga, music, and community. What started with a single class has grown into a heart-centered gathering place for Kirtan, sound baths, and shared practice. Our intention has always been to support people in discovering their own path, and the joy of walking it together.