Rajadhiraja Yoga introduces you to the science and art of bio-psychology
Biopsychology is the greatest thing since sliced bread. It adds a new dimension to asana practice.

What are the benefits of the postures according Rajadhiraja Yoga ? This article will discuss the deeper benefits of yoga asanas. It is based on an ancient science that was revived in 1980’s yoga psychology and bio-psychology.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the more obvious benefits.

Yoga asanas improve flexibility, posture, and alignment. Yoga postures, also known as asanas or yoga poses, are fundamentally lubricating for joints, muscles and ligaments. This increases flexibility and circulation. The initial focus of yoga postures is to improve flexibility. Your body is just as young as you are flexible. They are concerned with the spine’s health, strength and flexibility. The spine is home to the vital nervous system, the telegraphic system that controls the body’s movements. Exercise can increase circulation and ensure that the nerves receive nutrients and oxygen by strengthening the spine.

These are not essential aspects of yoga asana practice, but they are just superficial. This is the point where most schools stop exploring yoga asanas. The asanas are more complex than what is obvious.

The asanas have a peculiar effect on our inner organs, glands and brain

A state of health is one where all organs work perfectly under the control of the brain. Yoga is the only exercise method that can massage the internal organs and the endocrine glands. This balances hormone secretion, which affects our emotions. Yoga asanas replace negative emotions like depression, anxiety, hopelessness, and defeatism with joy, enthusiasm, and peace. Let’s take the thyroid gland as an example. Over-secretion by the thyroid and parathyroid glands can cause insomnia, emaciation, and irritability. Conversely, under-secretion results in lethargy (an abnormal need for sleep), obesity, and sluggishness. Yoga asanas can be used to balance hormone secretion. This is an art in and of itself.

What’s the ‘Full Yogic breath’?

Proper breathing is essential to fully appreciate the impact of asanas. They work together in harmony. Deep abdominal and diaphragmatic breathing is used in yoga, also known as the “full-yogic breath”. Deep, slow, and controlled breathing allows for a steady intake. This is important to counter the buildup of lactic acids in muscles that can be caused by forceful movements.

Diaphragmatic Breathing

The movement of your chest is highlighted in the anatomical picture above. This is due to the movement of the diaphragm and chest. When the diaphragm is used correctly, inhalation will result in the expansion the stomach and chest. On the flip side, when the diaphragm relaxes, the bellyand the chests contract.

Irregular Breathing = Restless mind

pranayama is yogic breathing exercises that control prana, or vital energy.

Prana, the subtle vital energy that keeps you alive, is called prana. The motion of the lungs is the most obvious manifestation of prana within the human body. The motion of the lungs is like a flywheel, which sets all other forces in motion. Thought is the subtlest expression prana. Breath and thought are both interconnected. Clear thinking is prevented by rapid breathing , whereas slow and steady breathing allows for clear and focused thinking. Prana can be stored more effectively when we focus and control our breathing. A person with a high amount of prana radiates vitality and strength. Asanas can also calm prana flow, vital energy that is crucial for deep meditation. An agitated and restless mind, which is a sign that prana moves randomly through the body, will prevent one from reaching deeper meditative states. It is therefore important to regulate prana by practicing asanas, and the prescribed breathing that goes with them.

Purification and activation of Spiritual Energy

To achieve the greatest benefit and purification possible of the nadis (subtle nervous channels), in preparation for Samadhi (8 , the highest limb of Ashtanga Yoga), precision in asana practice is crucial.

Specific asanas are made to help with the rise and expansion of the kundalini (the spiritual power lying dormant at the root or lowest chakra). These asanas purify the nadis, clear the pathways of the susumna and ida nadis, and unblock the chakras.