Are asana and pranayama practices, like that taught in hatha yoga, found in Patanjalis Yoga Sutras?
Yes and no. The general outline for asana and pranayama practices are contained in Sutras II.46-52. Also I.31 and I.34 has breathing exercises s well. These general principles in the Yoga Sutras apply to hatha yoga, but hatha yoga proper, elaborates upon and refines these practices in far greater detail. It is fair to say that classical hatha yoga includes and embraces Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras. but adds to the practices more specific practices of asana, pranayama, pratyhara, and dharana (visualization). some say that hatha yoga practices are merely augmentative to Raj Yoga or meditation. In essence these are all practices which are designed to effect union/yoga. Thus what is is most valuable is to not mistake the practice or technique with the goal — not become obsessed with the individual techniques but rather to use effective methods to move in alignment and harmony with Sanatana Dharma — as Natural Law.
