Hatha yoga is gentle and mindful. It's a conscious combination of asanas and pranayama (breathing techniques) in order to create a sequence of movements that enhance presence. This focus on the correct practice of each pose can make it easier for the mind to quiet down, which is one of the most beautiful aspects of this style.
The flow of the class leads you to a variety of static poses that you move though at a slow pace, the practice tends to begin with a centering practice, which can be a short guided meditation, a breathing exercise, a moment dedicated to silence or simply laying on your back.
Careful guidance is a must in Hatha yoga and equilibrium is key. The meaning of “ha” is sun, the meaning of “ta” is moon, therefore “Hatha” is the active search through Yoga to bring harmony between the sun and the moon within you.
Sharing some similarities in poses with vinyasa yoga, as well as the focus on breath as ashtanga yoga or restorative yoga, Hatha differentiates itself in its pace. It takes things slower than vinyasa, it allows more freedom in sequencing when compared to ashtanga, while providing a higher physical challenge than restorative yoga.
You will most probably enjoy Hatha yoga if:
- You are simply curious to try yoga, and don’t have a previous experience
- You have decided to start a yoga journey and want to ease into it
- Focusing on posture and core strength is your goal
- Reducing stress is important to you
- You have a low fitness level
- You love to take it easy and relax
Hatha yoga can also be a great choice for pregnant women, but don’t forget to check in with your doctor first and let your instructor know.
This practice has been proven to work as a treatment for anxiety and even depression by relieving everyday symptoms. The challenging nature of hatha yoga, with its strong element of breathwork makes it improve your attitude towards life by enhancing resilience, mental well-being and overall uplifting your emotional health. It can also add up to staying motivated to live a healthier life, in terms of encouraging more physical activity and nourishing your body with the best foods possible.
The creation of Hatha yoga is credited by Hindu traditions to Gorakshanath, recognized as a miracle worker and his teacher Matsyendranath. The style developed by them was known for emphasizing physical practices, as originally it strongly related with Indian medicine and alchemy. There were 6 physical purification disciplines which were also used in Hatha Yoga:
Neti: Nasal cleansing exercises with oil, water or a thin string.
Dhauti: purifying the stomach with saline solutions, air, or a long swath of cotton cloth.
Nauli: an intense rotation of the abdominal muscles.
Vasti: expulsion of accumulated toxins in the colon through various types of enema.
Kapalabhati: an active breathing practice to cleanse energy channels, still the mind and tone the core muscles.
Trataka: exercises for the eyes.
