Yoga Ancaster

Hatha Yoga can describe any of the physical practices of yoga. When you do Iyengar, this is hatha yoga; when you do Ashtanga, this is hatha yoga too. “Hatha yoga” can be used interchangeably with “yoga.”

So, What is a Hatha Yoga Class Like?

If you see a class described as Hatha, it will likely be a slow-paced stretching class with some simple breathing exercises and perhaps seated meditation. This is a good place to learn basic poses, relaxation techniques, and become comfortable with yoga.

Yoga has been called a science or technology of liberation. This is because, unlike purely theoretical philosophies, yoga seeks to provide the student with a practical path towards the common goal of liberation. The word yoga can be roughly translated (from its India origins) as “the ability to focus the mind on a single point without distraction”.

Hatha Yoga is a particular system of Yoga introduced by Yogi Swatmarama, a yogic sage of the 15th century in India.  Hatha Yoga, in its many modern variations, is the style that most people actually associate with the word “Yoga” today.  Because its emphasis is on the body through asana (postures) and pranayama (breathing) practice, many western students are satisfied with the physical health and vitality it develops.

Hatha Yoga is a development of focuses on shatkarma, the purification of the physical as leading to the purification of the mind (ha) and prana, or vital energy (tha).  Hatha yoga contains substantial tantric influence, and marks the first point at which chakras and kundalini were introduced into the yogic canon. Compared to the seated asanas of Patanjali’s Raja yoga, which were seen largely as a means of preparing for meditation, it also marks the development of asanas as full body ‘postures’ in the modern sense.

Why should you practice Hatha Yoga?

1. It promotes a healthier looking body.
2. It promotes a healthier, calmer, and more focused mind.
3. Its instant benefits include stress-relief and renewed enthusiasm.  It allows you to channel your energy so that it’s not wasted on negative emotions.
4. Yoga can be adapted to your individual needs whether you are young or old, male or female, healthy or sick.
5. Practised properly, yoga is low-impact and will not put excessive strain on your heart, muscles, and joints.
6. Yoga is inexpensive and requires no special equipment.
7. Yoga can improve the quality of your sleep so that you wake up feeling refreshed and full of vitality.
8. Yoga is fun!

Is Hatha Yoga for You?

Many people try a hatha class and love the relaxed feeling, others decide that yoga is too slow and meditative for them. If you fall in the later category, try vinyasa next time for a completely different experience.