As history tells it, Hatha Yoga was introduced in the 15th century for physically preparing the body for purification ahead of higher meditation. Hatha comes from the words ‘ha’ and ‘tha’, which mean the sun and the moon, and they refer to the energy that emanates from the body. Hatha also means forceful in Sanskrit.
What is Hatha Yoga as we know it?
We know it more commonly as Yoga, which is supposed to bring us both physical and mental wellbeing, balancing our mind and body, through gentle exercise, controlled breathing and meditation. Yoga is based on a number of structured poses that you complete using correct breathing with the primary aim of meditation and stress reduction.
Yoga comes in many varieties, but they all essentially rely on structured body poses, called asanas, that are performed with a precise breathing technique either in standing, sitting, lying or upside down postures.
A Yoga session, with controlled breathing and meditation, usually begins with light asanas and progresses to more challenging positions, working all parts of the body. Classes go from beginners to the more advanced.
Your trainer carefully guides you through all the postures, making sure you are carrying them correctly. Stop or ease back if you feel any pain. If you have not exercised in a while, or if you have any physical or medical condition, check with your doctor or trainer before you start a program.
What are the benefits of Yoga?
Regular practice of Yoga has been known to produce several physical and mental benefits both as alternative medicine and as regular exercise. Some say that Yoga also has certain biochemical benefits, as it improves cholesterol and glucose levels.
Physiological and psychological benefits include:
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Improved cardiovascular fitness and blood circulation
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Blood pressure normalization
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Improved digestion
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Enhanced muscle and joint flexibility and mobility, which may help prevent osteoporosis
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Helps shape long and lean muscle tone
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Reduced back pain and improved posture
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Stress relief, decreased anxiety and depression
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Overall feeling of wellbeing
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Improved concentration