The meaning of the Sanskrit word asana is a steady and comfortable posture. The postures performed in Yoga are called asanas. Although many people believe that they are physical exercises, it does not convey their full significance. Asanas aim at influencing the body, mind and consciousness, molding and yoking them into one harmonious whole. The practice of asanas requires active involvement of ones entire being as fully as possible. In other words, it is not acceptable to think about work or friends or food while performing them!

The prime aim of asanas is to help us tread the path to higher consciousness so we can begin to understand and know our relationship with existence. We cannot even consider attaining higher awareness if we are ill with disease, aches and pains or mental depression. Therefore, the initial purpose of practicing asanas is to eliminate these disturbances and afflictions.

The practice of asanas should not be divorced from the other aspects of Yoga. All Yoga techniques have the purpose of leading each of us to higher awareness. The ancient Yogis aimed at transcending the normal limitations of the mind and body. Their aim was to transcend individuality and to achieve self realization. In this context, asanas were not intended specifically to develop the mind and body. This was a means to an end. Their aim was to make the body so perfect and the subconscious mind so calm and trouble free that these aspects of individual existence could be forgotten. When the aches and pains and ailments of the body are removed and one is emotionally and mentally relaxed, then one automatically ceases to be aware of the physical body and the superficialities of the mind. In this way the fetters of individuality can be released and ones true nature- pure, infinite, all pervasive consciousness- can be realized.

Shreyas is an exclusive and private boutique retreat situated about 35km from the center of Bangalore. At Shreyas, you will get to learn the various Yoga practices from experienced teachers in the background of the rich and vibrant Indian Spiritual tradition that direct you to search for the meaning and purpose of your existence by looking into the depths of your souls.

The asana classes, the breathing, the awareness, the chanting, the absence of alcohol, the light vegetarian cuisine, the serene nature, the spiritual music, the silence hours etc are all designed so that you can attain wellbeing at all levels and progress along your journey of self discovery.