What are the 84 Classical Yoga Poses? Learn the Meaning and Benefits
Yoga is an ancient practice that helps keep your body strong, flexible, and healthy. It also teaches you how to calm your mind and feel peaceful. Many people wonder about the 84 classical yoga poses. You might be curious too! Let’s explore what these poses are and why they are so important.
What Does “84 Classical Yoga Poses” Mean?
In yoga history, the number 84 is very special. Ancient yogis, or wise teachers, believed that there are 84 main poses that help the body and mind the most. These poses are called “classical” because they come from old traditions and texts.
Many believe that doing these 84 poses can help a person reach their best physical health and even become spiritually awakened. In simple words, practicing these poses can make your body feel amazing and your heart feel happy.
Are All 84 Yoga Poses Listed Somewhere?
You might think there is a clear list written somewhere, like a checklist. But actually, there is no one single list that everyone agrees on. Different books and yoga teachers name slightly different poses.
However, over time, some poses have become very popular and are often included in these lists. Let’s look at some of these important poses that many people agree are part of the 84.
Examples of the Classical Yoga Poses
Here are some famous poses you might hear about when talking about the 84 classical yoga poses:
1. Padmasana (Lotus Pose)
This is a sitting pose where you cross your legs and place each foot on the opposite thigh. It looks like a flower blooming. It helps make your mind calm and is often used during meditation.
2. Tadasana (Mountain Pose)
Tadasana might look simple, but it is very powerful. You stand straight and tall like a mountain. It helps with good posture and teaches you to feel grounded and steady.
3. Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)
In this pose, you lie on your belly and lift your chest off the ground like a snake raising its hood. It stretches your back and makes your spine strong.
4. Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog Pose)
You form an upside-down V shape with your body. Your hands and feet are on the ground, and your hips are high up. This pose strengthens your arms and legs while giving a good stretch to your back.
5. Virabhadrasana (Warrior Pose)
Named after a mythical warrior, this pose makes you feel strong and powerful. You stand with one foot forward, bend the front knee, and stretch your arms wide. It builds courage and strength.
6. Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend)
You sit down and stretch your legs in front of you, then bend forward and try to touch your toes. This pose is great for stretching your back and calming your mind.
7. Trikonasana (Triangle Pose)
In this pose, you spread your legs wide apart, stretch your arms out, and bend sideways. It looks like a triangle. This pose helps improve balance and stretches your sides.
8. Sirsasana (Headstand)
This is called the “king of all poses.” You balance your body upside down on your head. It increases blood flow to the brain and builds confidence and strength.
9. Matsyasana (Fish Pose)
You lie on your back and lift your chest, making a fish shape with your body. It helps open up your chest and makes breathing easier.
10. Halasana (Plow Pose)
In Halasana, you lie on your back and lift your legs over your head until your toes touch the ground behind you. It helps stretch the spine and reduces stress.
Why Are These Poses Important?
Each pose is like a tool that helps your body and mind. Some poses stretch your muscles, while others make you strong. Some poses help you feel more energetic, and others calm you down.
Practicing these poses also teaches patience, discipline, and focus. Just like learning to play a new instrument or sport, doing yoga poses regularly makes you better and better.
How Were the 84 Classical Yoga Poses Chosen?
Long ago, yogis wanted to find poses that helped both the body and spirit. They picked poses that opened the body’s energy channels. They believed the body has special pathways where energy flows, like invisible roads inside us.
If these roads get blocked, we feel tired or sick. Yoga poses keep these roads open and healthy. That’s why the poses were carefully chosen.
Can Beginners Practice These Poses?
Absolutely! Everyone can start practicing yoga, no matter their age. If you are a beginner, you can learn simpler versions of these poses first.
It’s important to listen to your body. If a pose feels too hard, you can take a rest or modify it. Over time, your body will become more flexible and strong.
Tips for Practicing the 84 Classical Yoga Poses
1. Start Slow
Begin with a few poses. Do not try to learn all 84 at once. Master a few and then add more little by little.
2. Warm Up First
Always warm up your body before practicing. Gentle stretches or walking for a few minutes can help.
3. Breathe Deeply
Breathing is a big part of yoga. Try to take slow, deep breaths during each pose. Breathing deeply helps you stay calm and focused.
4. Use Props
Sometimes you might need help to get into a pose. Yoga blocks, belts, or even a wall can make poses easier and safer.
5. Stay Consistent
Practicing a little every day is better than doing a lot just once a week. Regular practice makes your body and mind strong.
What is the Goal of Practicing These 84 Poses?
The real goal of yoga is not just touching your toes or standing on your head. The true purpose is feeling happy, healthy, and peaceful inside.
By practicing these poses, you learn more about your own body. You notice how you feel each day and become more connected to yourself. Yoga also teaches kindness, patience, and love.
Fun Facts About the 84 Classical Yoga Poses
- Many old statues in India show people doing some of these yoga poses.
- Some yogis believed that there were actually 8.4 million poses, but 84 were the most important ones.
- Practicing these poses is sometimes called “asana practice.” “Asana” simply means “pose” or “seat” in Sanskrit, an old Indian language.
- Some poses are named after animals because they copy animal movements, like the Cobra or the Downward Dog!
The 84 classical yoga poses are like a treasure map to a healthier, happier life. Each pose has its own special gift to offer your body and mind.
You do not need to rush. Enjoy each moment on your yoga journey. With regular practice, you will feel stronger, calmer, and more joyful.
Yoga is not about being perfect. It is about doing your best and being kind to yourself. So, roll out your mat, take a deep breath, and start exploring the wonderful world of yoga!
