How Kalaripayattu
Works Kalaripayattu borrowed concepts and techniques from the yoga tradition. Several other South Asian martial arts, not simply Kalari, also have deep ties to yoga. Kalarippayattu practitioners may draw on the principles of many different yoga poses. Kalari exercises can be seen as a more vigorous style of yoga.
Like yoga, Kalari employs sequences of animal poses to increase the bodies natural energy circulation. For example, the Meippayat sequence from Kalari and the yoga practice of sun salutations (Surya Namaskar) have similarities.
The motions and methods of Kalarippayattu were first seen in local animals’ lion, boar, cobra, elephant, tiger, horse, rooster, and buffalo populations. Each posture was emblematic of a certain role.
Additionally, if you really get into Kalari, you'll find that it's a discipline for growing spiritually, with the body serving as a tool. Kalari masters, like great yoga masters, emphasize how the practice can change their students, including learning to helps them grow as people is paramount.