Pose Categories and Families: An Introduction

**Introduction** 
This section examines how asanas are categorized into various groups and
families. By analyzing the characteristics of these classifications, we gain
insight into how individual poses relate to one another, aiding in their
selection and sequencing. Poses are chosen based on their intended function
rather than their outward appearance. The spine’s position is crucial for
categorization, often sorting asanas into forward bends, backbends, twists,
and more. Such classification offers clarity about a pose’s purpose, guiding
both practice and instruction.

**Function Precedes Form** 
Historically, yogis prioritized function over form. They developed
techniques tailored to specific objectives. As modern practitioners, we
should focus on the spinal position when describing poses, as it indicates
the intended outcomes. For instance, while Janu Sirsasana incorporates
lateral bending, it is primarily a forward bend. Conversely, Adho Mukha
Svanasana emphasizes axial extension despite having a forward-bending
element. Recognizing these classifications informs our understanding of why
we practice particular poses and how we can effectively teach them.

**Expert Approaches to Categorizing Asana** 

Several experts offer unique frameworks for categorizing asanas. T.K.V.
Desikachar identifies movements based on spinal positioning—forward bends
(Pascimatana), backbends (Purvatana), lateral bends (Parsva), twists
(Parivrtti), inversions (Viparita), and special poses (Visesa), alongside
positions that foster energetic qualities (Mudra). Ray Long categorizes poses
into preparatory, standing, hip openers, and restorative groups. Silva Mehta
presents a simpler structure with standing, sitting, twists, and relaxation
poses. Joseph LePage emphasizes warm-ups, stabilization, and various bending
classifications, while Dharma Mittra organizes poses into series and specific
actions. Mark Stephens advocates for a sequencing approach that combines
standing and core poses with various bending movements, emphasizing the fluid
transition between different asanas.

**Classifying Asana Families** 

Asana families comprise poses that share anatomical or functional
similarities. Examples include the Tadasana family, featuring poses like
Tadasana and Plank; the Uttanasana family, which groups variations of forward
bends; and the Virabhadrasana I family, which includes Warrior I and related
postures. Differing methods, such as Mukunda Stiles’ classification based on
evoking specific qualities (like Hero Pose for courage), provide additional
perspectives on asana categorization.

Physical representations in nature—animals such as Bhujangasana or
Makarasana—hint at qualities embodied in these poses. Other classifications
tie asanas to life stages or specific physical regions, like the effects on
spinal column alignment or muscle engagement. For instance, Sarvangasana and
Sirsasana influence the head and cervical region, while Utthita Balasana is
known to invoke relaxation.

**Concluding Thoughts** 
Understanding the categorization of asanas enhances our practice by clearly
defining the purpose behind each pose, their sequencing in practice, and
effective teaching methods. This knowledge enables practitioners to select
poses that yield the desired physical and energetic outcomes. For those
looking for further information on asana categories and families, please
visit
https://ashtanga.tech/study-guide/yoga-techniques/asana/asana-categories-families-intro/.