What does the term "Asana" refer to in yoga?

The term "Asana" specifically refers to a physical posture or pose in the practice of yoga. It encompasses the various postures that practitioners adopt to enhance their physical strength, flexibility, and balance, while also promoting relaxation and mind-body awareness. Asanas are fundamental to many styles of yoga and are often practiced as part of a sequence or routine to prepare the body for meditation and other yoga practices.

In contrast, other choices are distinct concepts within the broader yoga practice. Meditation practices involve mental and spiritual focus but are not primarily about physical postures. A type of yoga class encompasses various styles that may involve different combinations of asanas, breathing techniques, and meditation. Breathing techniques, or pranayama, pertain to the control of breath and have a different focus than the physical aspects associated with asanas. Thus, the definition of "Asana" as a physical posture or pose underlines its essential role in the yoga practice.