To better understand the practice and correctly address the intention, I share an interesting passage from the text Asana Pranayama Mudra Bandha by Swami Satyananda Saraswati, founder of the Bihar School of Yoga, India. Published in 1969, it is one of the most valid reference manuals of Hatha Yoga teachers and students to date, interpreting the classical Yoga practice for application in modern society.
"If the purpose of Yoga practice is relaxation or physical well-being, it is necessary to focus on something. By directing the mind to a specific area of the body or the breath, the effect of a particular practice is increased. Sometimes one of the Chakras or psychic centers is used as a point for spiritual concentration. On a physical level, The chakras are associated with the major nerve centers and endocrine glands in the body. Many Asanas have a particularly powerful and effective effect on one or more glands or nerve centers. For example, Sarvangasana exerts strong pressure on the thyroid gland in the area of the throat, which is associated with Vishuddhi Chakra. The thyroid will receive a good massage and its function will be improved. If the concentration is directed towards this Chakra during the Asana, the beneficial effects will be increased".
Taken from: Swami Satyananda Saraswati (2013). Asana Pranayama Mudra Bandha. Yoga Publications Trust, Munger, Bihar, India.
