Introduced by Yogi Swatmarama in the 15th century in
India, Hatha Yoga is one of the prominent types of Yoga. Hatha Yoga is
the origin of many other styles of Yoga, including Power Yoga, Bikram
Yoga, Kundalini Yoga and Ashtanga Yoga. The word 'hatha', derived from
Sanskrit, means the combination of the opposites - ha (meaning Sun) and
tha (meaning Moon). It unites the positive (Sun) and negative (Moon)
currents in the system. It is mainly concentrated on the third (Asana)
and fourth (Pranayams) in the Eight Limbs of Yoga. It aims to attain a
balanced between the body and mind, through the physical postures of
Asanas, purification procedures (Shatkriyas), poses (Mudras), yogic
breathing (Pranayams) and meditation. It also aims to pacify the mind
through relaxation and meditation techniques.
During Hatha Yoga, Asanas are performed to improve the overall health.
The regular practice of Asanas grants the practitioner with the
improvement in his/her overall health. The postures make the body feel
relaxed for long time after they are performed. The muscle flexibility
and bone strength are improved, by performing Asanas. Apart from the
physical postures, Pranayams also form an important part of Hatha Yoga.
Yogis in the ancient times believed that the control to one's mind could
be unlocked by controlling one's breath. Hence, the practice of Hatha
Yoga can help you identify your hidden physical and mental strengths.
Meditation is another part of Hatha Yoga, which rewards the practitioner
with some non-physical benefits such as the increase in his/her
concentration power.
By the regular practice of Hatha Yoga, one can ensure overall physical
and mental health. The branch of Yoga helps the person to reduce the
risk of various kinds of physical and mental ailments. The individual
tends to feel more relaxed during stressful situations, after performing
Hatha Yoga. Apart from toning the internal organs, the physical postures
of Hatha Yoga help prevent diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and
arthritis. Muscular-skeletal problems such as scoliosis can be prevented
by doing Hatha Yoga. The physical postures also improve blood
circulation, immune system and stimulate endocrine glands. On the other
hand, Pranayams help prevent breathing problems like asthma and
bronchitis.
Hatha yoga is beneficial for people of all ages. Children, adults and
elderly people can enjoy the benefits of Hatha Yoga, alike. The Asanas
and Pranayams are gentle, but highly effective forms of exercises.
Patience, calmness and determination can help you garner the benefits of
Hatha Yoga, effectively. It is the best bet to lead a life free of
anxiety, stress and tension. If you are in search of
inner-enlightenment, Hatha Yoga is the answer for you. The relaxation
exercises will help in opening up the energy channels, thereby allowing
the free flow of spiritual energy within you.
