Acharya Mahaprajna
The asanas can be of two types: dhyanasana (asanas for dhyana or meditation), swasthyaasana (asanas for health). Dhyanasanas, such as the siddhasana, vajrasana, padmasana, ardha-padmasana, ardha-matsyendrasana and, if the body is very healthy, naukasana are useful for dhyana. The asanas which correct the blood circulation, bring about the ligamentary balance and keep the sinews in proper order through the ligamentary tension, bring flexibility in the spinal column and enable the bone-marrow to function well - are good for health. These asanas are good for the body. Both types of the asanas have been mentioned in the Jain Agamas. Kayotsarga is one of these asanas which is very easy if practised in a stretched position. However, it is very difficult if it is practised in a sitting or a standing position. It is health if it is practised in a sitting or a standing position. Its form and benefits have been mentioned in detail in the Kayotsarga Shataka. Restoration of muscles in the proper condition, release of the tension and the abatement of the diseases caused by vata, pitta, shelshma, etc. are the results of the practice of kayotsarga. Clearly the principles of both nirjara and atma-suddhi that is, principles of maintaining good health and keeping the body strong are related to the asanas.
