Hatha Yoga

July 4, 2009 · Filed Under Yoga 

Hatha yoga is also known by the name of Hatha Vidya. It is a type of yoga introduced by Yogi Swatmarama who was a yogic sage of living in India in the 15th century. Hatha yoga is derived from the Hinayana (narrow path) and Mahayana (great path) traditions of Buddhism, as well as the Sahajayana (spontaneous path) and Vajrayana (concerning matters of sexuality) traditions of Tantra. Hatha yoga believes in purification of the human mind. Hatha yoga is practiced for mental and physical health and vitality.

The most fundamental text of Hatha Yoga is the Hatha Yoga Pradipika. It is a Sanskrit classic compiled by Yogi Swatamarama in the 15th century. The classic includes information on the bandhas, kriyas, shakti, nadis and other topics as well.

Hatha Yoga is traditionally a path including moral disciplines, physical exercises, asanas better known as postures and Pranayama also known as breath control. Hatha yoga also consists of meditation. In the west practice of Hatha yoga includes asanas and exercises. Hatha yoga is said the represent contrasting energies of hot and cold better known as fire and water, but it is not completely analogous to ying and yang. It also deals with energies of male and female, positive and negative. The main purpose of Hatha Yoga is to balance the mind and the body with the help of physical exercises or asanas, controlled breathing, body balance and body strength. Hatha yoga also gives a lot of importance to meditation as well. The asanas teach poise, balance and strength and are practiced to improve the body’s overall health and clear the mind for preparation of meditation in pursuit of enlightenment.

Hence we see that Hatha yoga provides a lot of benefits to its disciples. First of all it provides a balance of strength and flexibility. It helps to make the muscles and the joints stronger. It also leads to improved organ function in the body. The internal organs of the body are said to be benefited by practicing Hatha yoga on a regular basis. Hatha yoga also leads to improved blood circulation in the body. It improves the performance of the thyroid gland promoting health and balance. In the end Hatha yoga helps to relax the brain through deep relaxation sessions. It improves the body’s metabolism and makes the body immune to many types of diseases. By practicing Hatha yoga you acquire a feeling of confidence and vitality.

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