Hath Yoga

“The main teaching of yoga is that man’s nature is divine.” -Swami Rama

An Historical Perspective of Hatha Yoga Introduced thousands of years ago by Pantanjali in ancient India in a book called The Yoga Sutras Hatha Yoga is one of many types of yoga

Hatha Yoga Yoga is a Sanskrit word meaning “union.” It refers to the union of mind, body, and spirit. Hatha yoga emphasizes physical balance.

Hatha Yoga’s Three Premises the art of breathing the art of conscious stretching the art of balance

Physiological Effects of Hatha Yoga Offers great means to enhance structural balance Relaxes muscles that are tense from stress, poor posture When muscles are relaxed, the mind and body become more relaxed People report that Hatha Yoga improves quality of sleep

Psychological Effects of Hatha Yoga Offers great means to promote mental calmness Offers potential for better quality of self- image Implicit message of yoga practice maintains a sense of inner peace

Hatha Yoga Hatha yoga session will begin with the namaskar (Salute to the Sun), which is a series of movements or postures initiating integration of the mind, body, and spirit. Asanas are yoga positions – moving into the pose – maintaining the pose – coming out of the pose

Additional Thoughts on Hatha Yoga Best not to eat before practice Wear loose fitting clothing Find a quiet time to practice regularly Concentrate on breathing with each asana

Hatha Yoga and Chronic Pain Often prescribed to help with lower back and hip pain (e.g., separation of SI joint)

Best Application of Hatha Yoga It’s a great way to start or end each day Yoga classes help one’s motivation to practice Keeping muscles flexible is a metaphor for life