In Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras there are about 12 words that speak to yoga’s third limb, asana. And of those 12, there are perhaps three in particular that we as yogis know best: 11.46 sthira-sukham asanam. The verse speaks to steadiness, ease, and balance. While it refers to our physical yoga practice, like all of yoga’s teachings, the dharma and our lives are the same thing.
Rima Rabbath, a renowned Jivamukti teacher, says it is one of her favorite verses among the 196–200 sutras. “It is so rich, and so exciting, and so beautiful to bring to mind throughout our daily practice,” she says.