In which century did modern asanas used in yoga begin to evolve?

The evolution of modern asanas in yoga began primarily in the 19th century. During this time, there was a significant revival and reformation of yoga practices in India, influenced by various social, cultural, and political factors. Prominent figures like Swami Vivekananda played a crucial role in introducing and popularizing yoga to the Western world, leading to a fusion of traditional techniques with new philosophies and practices.

In the 19th century, particularly towards its latter half, there was a move towards systematizing and codifying yoga practices, which included the development of more structured asanas. This evolution was characterized by an increased focus on physical postures, aligning with the burgeoning interest in physical fitness and holistic health, which laid the groundwork for the contemporary yoga practice we see today.

Understanding this historical context is vital, as it highlights the transition from traditional meditative practices to the inclusion of dynamic physical postures, which became more prominent in the 20th century and have continued to evolve into the present day.