Pose Categories & Families Intro

Introduction

Here we explore the classification of asana into categories and into families. By considering the qualities and characteristics of these groupings, we learn how individual poses relate to — and differ from — others, thus supporting the process of choosing and sequencing asana.

Poses are chosen by the purposes they intend to serve (function) as opposed to how they look (form).

Of primary concern is the position of the spine in the pose and, thus, its general classification as a forward bend, backbend, twist and so on. This categorization provides a general sense for the purpose of the pose and therefore, in a general sense, how to sequence and teach it.

FUNCTION PRECEDES FORM

Function always preceded form.  Yogis of the past were practical and purpose-driven.  They created tools and techniques based on the purposes they were intended to serve, rather than the other way around. – Kausthub Desikachar

WHY WE PRACTICE A POSE AND HOW TO TEACH IT

When we describe a pose, we always start by identifying the position of the spine, since the position of the spine gives us immediate clues about what the pose is meant to accomplish… This type of classification is important for understanding the function of individual poses; it is not about the purity of the spinal position itself… Janu Sirsasana has an element of lateral bending, but it is mostly a forward bend; Adho Mukha Svanasana has an element of forward bending, but it is mostly an axial extension posture; and so on. Knowing where the pose belongs classification-wise helps us understand both why we do it and how to teach it. – Olga Kabel

Details Below

First, you’ll see a few expert approaches to categorizing poses. Next is a summary of categories that draws from the expert approaches to organize postures based on their key anatomic actions and energetic functions.