What is Hatha Yoga
Hatha Yoga is believed to have been developed in India
from the 7th-13th Century, during a time when yoga was blossoming. It is
fundamentally a Hindu spiritual discipline that prepares for meditation or Raja
Yoga.
Hatha means sun/moon, Ha meaning sun and tha moon, this is to
represent the union of opposites.
Hatha is one of the four main traditions of Tantra
Yoga. Hatha concentrates on the practice of asanas (postures) and pranayama
(yoga breathing)
Practicing asanas can help to bring health and energy to
the body, which in turn helps to build physical strength, reduce stress
and benefit sleep.
Asanas should not be confused with mere exercise though which help
strengthen and develop muscles. Asanas are special positions of the body that
strengthen, purify and balance the endocrine, nervous and circulatory systems
Hatha is also used to prepare for meditation,
practicing asanas also prepare the body to hold one posture for a length of
time. The more postures you master the stronger your foundation will be to
develop inner meditation techniques.
Although you might not be interested in the spiritual side
of yoga, by practicing Yoga, even if only for a few minutes a day, you should
feel the benefits of Yoga.
Other types of yoga that may be of interest to you include
Ashtanga and Iyengar.
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