Hatha Yoga
Hatha Yoga: The Foundation of Physical Practice
Hatha Yoga is often considered the parent of most modern physical yoga styles. The word "Hatha" can be broken down into ha (sun) and tha (moon), representing the balance of opposing energies—masculine and feminine, active and passive, hot and cold.
Core Philosophy
The primary goal of traditional Hatha yoga was to prepare the body and mind for deeper states of meditation (Raja Yoga). By purifying the body through physical postures (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama), and cleansing techniques (shatkarmas), a practitioner could achieve a state of physical stillness and energetic balance necessary for spiritual progress.
What to Expect in a Class
A modern Hatha yoga class is typically slower-paced than a Vinyasa or Ashtanga class. It is an excellent starting point for beginners. Key characteristics include:
- Focus on Foundational Poses: You will learn the basic alignments and principles of common yoga postures.
- Holding Poses: Poses are often held for several breaths, allowing you to explore the sensations and make subtle adjustments.
- Gentle Movement: The transition between poses is usually slow and deliberate, with pauses in between.
- Integration of Breath: There is a strong emphasis on connecting movement with breath (pranayama), but not in the continuous "flow" style of Vinyasa.
Benefits
- Builds strength and flexibility in a safe, accessible way.
- Improves posture and body awareness.
- Calms the nervous system and reduces stress.
- Provides a solid foundation for exploring more dynamic yoga styles.