Sthira Sukham Asanam (Yoga Sutra 2.46) — Word-by-Word Meaning
स्थिरसुखमासनम्
Every Sanskrit word explained in English
Word-by-Word Breakdown
स्थिर
sthira
Steady, stable, firm, motionless
सुखम्
sukham
Comfortable, easy, pleasant, at ease
आसनम्
asanam
Posture, seat, the way of sitting (the 3rd limb of yoga)
स्थिरसुखम्
sthira-sukham
Steady and comfortable; firm yet relaxed
स्थिरम् आसनम्
sthiram asanam
A steady posture
सुखम् आसनम्
sukham asanam
A comfortable posture
आसन
asana
The yogic seat; here defined by its two essential qualities
स्थिरसुखम् आसनम्
sthira-sukham asanam
Posture (asana) is that which is steady and comfortable
Complete Translation
Posture (asana) should be steady and comfortable.
Origin & History
Source: Patanjali Yoga Sutras 2.46
Author: Patanjali
Period: Classical (c. 2nd century BCE – 4th century CE)
This aphorism appears in the Sadhana Pada of Maharshi Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, where the eight limbs are described one by one. Reaching asana, the third limb, Patanjali defines it in just three words — sthira-sukham asanam — capturing the entire essence of yogic posture. The following sutras explain how such a posture is perfected. This verse is the philosophical root of all asana practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the meaning of Sthira Sukham Asanam?▼
From Patanjali's Yoga Sutras 2.46, it means 'Posture should be steady and comfortable.' Sthira means steady or stable, sukha means comfortable or at ease, and asana means posture. It is the classical definition of the third limb of yoga.
Why are steadiness and comfort both important?▼
A posture that is steady but uncomfortable causes strain; one that is comfortable but unsteady cannot support meditation. Patanjali asks for both together — a seat firm enough to hold and easy enough to remain in effortlessly, freeing the mind to turn inward.
How does one achieve a steady and comfortable posture?▼
The next sutra (2.47) explains: 'Prayatna-shaithilya-ananta-samapattibhyam' — by relaxing effort and meditating on the infinite. Posture is perfected when the striving relaxes and the mind rests in something boundless, so the body becomes both still and at ease.
Does this sutra apply only to seated postures?▼
Although asana originally referred to the meditation seat, this principle of steadiness with comfort applies to every yoga posture. It is the standard by which any asana is judged correct — held with stability and without strain.
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