Āsana, kumbhaka, the practices called mudrā, and the contemplation of nāda: this is the order of practice in Haṭha Yoga.

This crucial verse presents the complete structure of the Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā and the correct order of practice:

1. Āsana — Postures (Chapter 1)
2. Kumbhaka — Breath retention/prāṇāyāma (Chapter 2)
3. Mudrā — Seals and energetic gestures (Chapter 3)
4. Nādānusandhāna — Contemplation of the internal sound (Chapter 4)

Abhyāsānukrama — “sequential order of practice” — indicates that this sequence is not arbitrary but pedagogically necessary. Each stage prepares for the next.

One cannot effectively practice kumbhaka without the stability that āsana provides. The mudrās require the prāṇa control developed in kumbhaka. And absorption in nāda is only possible when previous practices have quieted body and mind.

Citraṃ mudrākhyaṃ karaṇam — “the varied practices called mudrā” — indicates the diversity of techniques in that category, from hand gestures to complete bodily seals.

This verse serves as both index and map of the complete path of Haṭha Yoga.