We can create infinite number of Karaṇās (units of movement) which are finally classified in nine essential groups which emphasises its primary nature and scope:

• neutral (sama),
• recovering (punarnavīkāra)
• posterior stretch (pṛṣṭha-dairghya)
• anterior stretch (agra-dairghya)
• side-stretch (pārśva-dairghya)
• twisted-stretch (parivṛtta-dairghya)
• inverted (viparīta)
• balancing on the limbs (aṅga-ādhāra)
• strengthening (tejaskara)

In order to create a complete and balanced practice the Nava-karaṇa (nine units of movement also called prāthamika-karaṇa lit. primary units of movement) have to occur at least once in every sequence (krama) and should be hold in their final stage (āsana) for a prescribed* number of breaths.