The dominance of physical postures (asanas) in contemporary yoga practices does, to a significant extent, undermine the holistic purpose of yoga as outlined in classical texts like Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras. In these foundational scriptures, yoga is described as an eightfold path (Ashtanga Yoga), where asana is only one limb among others that include ethical observances (yama and niyama), breath control (pranayama), sensory withdrawal (pratyahara), concentration (dharana), meditation (dhyana), and ultimately, liberation or spiritual absorption (samadhi). The purpose of asana in the Yoga Sutras is not for physical fitness or aesthetic appeal, but to prepare the body for long periods of meditation by achieving a stable and comfortable seated posture.

In contrast, modern yoga—especially in Western and urbanized settings—tends to emphasize asana almost exclusively, often as a form of exercise or body-sculpting practice. This shift in focus has led to the commercialization of yoga, with an emphasis on physical appearance, flexibility, and performance, sometimes at the cost of ignoring the inner transformative aspects that yoga was originally meant to cultivate. The ethical, psychological, and spiritual components of yoga are frequently marginalized or omitted altogether in mainstream yoga studios and classes.

However, some argue that this emphasis on asana serves as an accessible entry point for many practitioners who might later explore deeper aspects of the yogic path. For them, the physical practice is not inherently harmful but becomes limiting only if it remains disconnected from the broader philosophical framework. Nonetheless, when asana becomes the primary or sole focus, it risks distorting yoga into a purely physical discipline, thereby undermining its original intent as a path to inner freedom, self-awareness, and spiritual growth.

In essence, while asana is a valuable component of yoga, its dominance in contemporary practice often overshadows the holistic, integrative purpose of yoga as described in classical texts. A more balanced approach that reintegrates the ethical, meditative, and philosophical dimensions is necessary to preserve the true essence of yoga.