Energize your inner woman using Hatha Yoga
Hatha yoga is one the six branches of yoga and the most popular form. The name is derived from two Sanskrit terms ‘ha’ meaning the sun and ‘tha’ meaning the moon. It can be said to be a practice that helps unite the opposite forces of currents in a human body. This branch of yoga is often termed as ‘forceful yoga’ since it involves the maximum amount of physical exercises of all forms. In many respects it is similar to the Patanjali’s Raja yoga and also includes moral restraint and spiritual observance.
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A sage in the 15th century, Yogi Swatmarama, first introduced the Hatha yoga. In his compilation Yogi Swatmarama referred to Hatha yoga as a means of physical purification with the ultimate aim of attaining higher levels of meditation.
Traditionally Hatha yoga is said to have been propounded by Lord Shiva. It is believed that the Lord had imparted knowledge about this form to Goddess Parvati on a lonely island. Oblivious as the Lord was the entire discourse was overheard by a fish. When the fish was revealed to Lord Shiva, the Lord turned him into a Siddhi, a person having divine powers. This branch of yoga is often termed as ‘forceful yoga’ since it involves the maximum amount of physical exercises of all forms.
The practice of Hatha Yoga helps achieve a balance between body and mind and in the process frees the more spiritual elements of the mind. The techniques used in this form of yoga are asanas, pranayama and meditation.
The term asana in Sanskrit means seat. This seat not only refers to the physical seat of a body but also its position in relation to the divine power. The primary aim of the asanas was to meditate as meditation leads to a relaxed mind and body. Practicing these asanas not only assists in attaining a healthy mind but also a healthy and energetic body. Regular practice of asanas leads to a flexible body and strong bones as well as provides a boost to ones confidence, will-power, and concentration.
The word pranayama is a combination of the words ‘prana’ meaning life force and ‘ayama’ which means to control. Pranayama involves techniques of breath control mastering which leads to control over ones mind. Everybody has a storehouse of dormant energy and this can be released by performing pranayama.
A regular practitioner of Hatha yoga is able to recognize his hidden potential, both physical and mental. Besides bringing about flexibility to ones body the asanas and pranayama help attain a relaxed body and help cope with stressful situations in a more controlled and composed manner. By assisting in releasing energy Hatha Yoga allows the spiritual energy to flow freely in ones body. Certain asanas not only provide relief to the external organs but also massage and tone the internal organs which help prevent diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and arthritis. When taking the first step towards yoga Hatha yoga would be a good place to start off with. After all who does not love to have a good looking body and a relaxed mind?
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