Before we study the anatomy and physiology of the human body we'll make a brief description of the benefits and practical application of the study of this subject matter. they are:
1. Use of a clear language and at the same time simple, during the description of the yoga techniques;
2. Prevent and treat injuries;
3. Detect early 'vices' that could lead to an incorrect practice;
4. Gaining familiarity with the technical terms of anatomy and physiology books, to facilitate the study and consultation of these.
Sometimes the yoga practitioner in search of a deeper understanding (eg on how to breathe properly in pranayama, on whether to meditate with the eyes open or closed, etc.) looks for clarification in different schools. This search is positive if lead to identifying those key aspects that are common and the essence of all these methodologies or schools. We will name them by "universal aspects" because when we identify them we realize the power behind of the techniques. In this context, studying anatomy and physiology according to a yogic perspective, combined with a practical sense of life, is certainly a good contribution.
The starting point of our study is to understand what is the function of the bone and muscle, what is the function of the joint, etc. That's what we call dharma of the human body: those principles that maintain the balance, well-being and health of our body. In turn, the success of karma (action and fruits of actions) depends on dharma (function). For example, if each of these parts fulfill its function, doing, remain in and coming out of the asana we feel stability and comfort in the body. Stability and mobility are body functions assigned to the musculoskeletal system, the support base of our body. In general, the anatomy and physiology helps to understand the dharma or functions of many systems of the body. And it has a great impact both in our daily practice as in a classroom context. Inevitably teachers have to deal with several situations like people with poor blood circulation problems, arthritis, headaches, anxiety, mental fatigue or other type of pathologies. Our study combined with our personal experience of yoga makes it not only easier but also more intuitive to handle with such situations. It allows us, for example, adapt postures, pranayama techniques, relaxation and meditation. The purpose is that yoga might be practiced by everyone who wishes regardless of the physical and mental condition of each person. Remaining as a witness (sakshi) in sádhana itself is fundamental to reach the 'what to do, how to do and when to do'. We must be receptive to this and not seek recipes.
Studying the human body in a systematic approach opens our perception and our understanding in a way that can go well beyond the body. Remember that the first stage of any type of yoga is described in Hatha Yoga Pradipika as arambha avastha, the stage of physiological benefits: Strong appetite, good digestion, joy, a beautiful look, great courage, enthusiasm and full strength.
I believe the main focus is to promote the entire balance in one's life. That is, instead of focusing on fighting the disease lets first of all promote health and nourish healthy habits. In other words, instead of thinking in 'combat skin cancer,' why not 'promote skin health'? It is a matter of perspective but it can certainly make a difference!
The most important thing is to study, digest, and go back to study ... and go digesting. At the end of our studies we will be able to answer the following questions among many others. What else are the functions of muscles beyond the movement? Why should I work in padmasana flexibility hip and not the knee? What is the connection between proper body alignment and the physiological effect in an asana? What about the relation between the muscle activation, circulation and lymphatic drainage? The nervous system is the main command and control center of the body. Which are the elements through which decisions are made? Why does the herniated disc arise almost in all cases at the end of cervical or lumbar order? What is the influence of voluntary body in the involuntary?
Our study begins but does not end here! I wish you inspiration and success!
Gonçalo Correia