Hatha Yoga
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.
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