Traditionally, asanas have been described as postures that best relax the body. This quality of relaxation has made the practice accessible to large numbers of people who lead taxing lifestyles. The asanas are done in standing, sitting and reclining positions. There are more complex postures as well. Taken together, these asanas focus on instilling balance. Hatha Yoga is a branch of yoga that gives emphasis for force. Haṭha literally means "force".
Standing postures are those asanas that begin with the individual standing upright on his/ her feet. Sirshasana alone has the individual standing upside down.
Sitting postures are those asanas that begin with the individual sitting down. These asanas include Padmasana, Mudrasana, Ardha Matsyendrasana, Vajrasana, Supta Vajrasana, Kakasana, Kukkudasana, Kurmasana, Akarna Dhanurasana, Paschimottanasana, Purvottanasana, Janu Sirshasana and Eka Pada Sirasana.
Reclining postures are those asanas that begin with the individual lying down.
