Hatha Yoga incorporates a wide array of physical practices such as 'Shatkarma' (cleansing techniques), 'Asana' (postures), and 'Pranayama' (control of the breath and vital energy.)
Hatha Yoga originated in Tantra. Early Hatha yogis such as Matsyendra and Goraknath refined Tantric practices, leaving out the ritual and developed a system focusing on physical and energetic practices.
The inner meaning of the word 'Hatha' can be explained in two parts:
'Ha' means Sun and represents the physical body. 'Tha' means Moon and represents the subtle mind. 'Yoga' means union. Therefore, Hatha Yoga can be translated as: The Union of the Body with the Mind.
When mind and body are in harmony we are able to experience a greater sense of peace, clarity and good health. From this platform we are able to work towards ultimate liberation. The goal of Hatha Yoga, as with all paths of yoga is self-realisation and freedom from suffering.
The first stages of Hatha Yoga are the purification and strengthening of the physical body through cleansing techniques and asanas (postures.) The next stage is the practice of pranayama (control of the lifeforce) which prepares the mind and the nervous system for meditation and the awakening of Kundalini Shakti (transcendental energy.) The final stage of Hatha Yoga is the complete liberation of the Jiva (individual soul) whilst in this lifetime.
Hatha Yoga works with fundamental principles. Balance, wholeness, peace of mind and good health are universal aspirations. This path offers a systematic and holistic approach by which these qualities become achievable and sustainable throughout our daily lives and in our relationships with others.
Hatha Yoga originated in Tantra. Early Hatha yogis such as Matsyendra and Goraknath refined Tantric practices, leaving out the ritual and developed a system focusing on physical and energetic practices.
The inner meaning of the word 'Hatha' can be explained in two parts:
'Ha' means Sun and represents the physical body. 'Tha' means Moon and represents the subtle mind. 'Yoga' means union. Therefore, Hatha Yoga can be translated as: The Union of the Body with the Mind.
When mind and body are in harmony we are able to experience a greater sense of peace, clarity and good health. From this platform we are able to work towards ultimate liberation. The goal of Hatha Yoga, as with all paths of yoga is self-realisation and freedom from suffering.
The first stages of Hatha Yoga are the purification and strengthening of the physical body through cleansing techniques and asanas (postures.) The next stage is the practice of pranayama (control of the lifeforce) which prepares the mind and the nervous system for meditation and the awakening of Kundalini Shakti (transcendental energy.) The final stage of Hatha Yoga is the complete liberation of the Jiva (individual soul) whilst in this lifetime.
Hatha Yoga works with fundamental principles. Balance, wholeness, peace of mind and good health are universal aspirations. This path offers a systematic and holistic approach by which these qualities become achievable and sustainable throughout our daily lives and in our relationships with others.
Yogi Matsyendra