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
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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 According to Dary, there are four asanas (yoga poses) that effectively target the glutes. Marie Bladt, Vogue, 9 July 2024 Delve into the asanas of hatha yoga, the foundations of pranayama breathwork, and the sutras for a deeper understanding of the practice. Julia Eskins, Condé Nast Traveler, 20 Feb. 2024 This asana relieves tension in the back, shoulders, and mind. Dulce Moncada, Glamour, 28 Sep. 2023 Tadasana Mountain pose is the basis for many other asanas. Dulce Moncada, Glamour, 11 Aug. 2023 More than just places to practice downward dog, studios that go beyond the physical aspects of asana such as Stone Wave Yoga — which hosts classes, pranayama workshops, farm meditation, and retreats — are on the rise as well. Lindsay Cohn, Travel + Leisure, 30 June 2023

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 18 Nov. 2024.

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