asana

noun

asa·​na ˈä-sə-nə How to pronounce asana (audio)
: any of various yogic postures

Examples of asana in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Yoga Yoga is an ancient Indian practice that combines meditation, asanas (yoga poses), philosophy, and mindfulness. Sarah Bence, Verywell Health, 4 Feb. 2025 One team member even recently opened a yoga studio where groups practice their asanas every week. Nick Davidson, Outside Online, 1 Oct. 2014 Amid the gardens that were designed by landscape architect Douglas Reed, a yoga sala is located a short walk from the main house for practicing asanas while catching a Caribbean breeze out of the heat of the sun. Emma Reynolds, Robb Report, 5 Dec. 2024 Pranayama, sometimes called yoga breathing, is one aspect of a yoga practice that includes asana (the poses) and dhyana (meditation). Cory Martin, Verywell Health, 1 Dec. 2024 Yoga-esque Poses on the Toilet Yoga asana, or the poses, can be boiled down to making shapes with your body. Cory Martin, Verywell Health, 20 Nov. 2024 Classes include a mix of asana (poses), pranayama (breathing exercises), and meditation and may be geared toward beginners. Sherri Gordon, Health, 6 Oct. 2024 The physical practice of yoga can be great exercise, especially the more active forms of asana, the poses. Cory Martin, Verywell Health, 23 Sep. 2024 Yoga consists of three parts—the physical poses (asana), meditation (dhyana), and breath work (pranayama). Cory Martin, Verywell Health, 23 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Sanskrit āsana manner of sitting, from āste he sits; akin to Greek hēsthai to sit, Hittite es-

First Known Use

1811, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of asana was in 1811

Dictionary Entries Near asana

Cite this Entry

“Asana.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/asana. Accessed 24 Feb. 2025.

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