Prathamopadeśaḥ (Āsana) · Verse 56

एवम् आसन-बन्धेषु योगिन्द्रो नाम सिद्ध्यति | सम्यक् सिद्धेषु देहस्य स्थिरत्वं बलम् उत्तमम्

evam āsana-bandheṣu yogindro nāma sidhyati | samyak siddheṣu dehasya sthiratvaṃ balam uttamam

Thus, through postures and contractions, the yogī achieves success. When properly perfected, the body attains supreme stability and strength.

This verse summarizes the benefits of the first chapter dedicated to āsana and bandha. The word yogindra (“lord of yogīs”) indicates that mastery of these practices confers excellence.

Sthiratva (stability) and bala (strength) are the two pillars of a body prepared for higher practices. Without this foundation, prāṇāyāma and advanced energetic techniques are problematic.

The adverb samyak (properly, correctly) is crucial. It is not enough to do the postures; they must be done well. External form must align with internal attitude.

Uttama bala (supreme strength) is not brute force but the body’s capacity to sustain long practice sessions without fatigue, to sit in meditation without discomfort.

Haṭha Yoga understands that liberation requires a prepared bodily vehicle. Neglecting the body is not spirituality but negligence.