Hatha is a general category that includes most yoga styles. It is an old system that includes the practice of asanas (yoga postures) and pranayama (breathing exercises), which help bring peace to the mind and body, preparing the body for deeper spiritual practices such as meditation. Most forms of yoga in the West can be classified as Hatha Yoga. Hatha simply refers to the practice of physical yoga postures that you would recognise as a traditional yoga mat class.
Hatha yoga is a popular yoga choice in today’s fitness community. Groups and individuals use this ancient, classic yoga style to get fit and encourage a healthy mind-body connection. Knowing more about Hatha yoga will help fitness beginners see more about how this traditional yoga practice informs newer yoga styles and brings a lot of authentic principles to a yoga routine.
Who is Yoga suitable for?
Yoga is suitable for all ages and abilities but is particularly of use to those with any of the following conditions:
Joint Problems – Mobilisation of the joints releases synovial fluid, helping to lubricate and nourish joints. Weight bearing exercise helps to increase bone density
Back Problems – Yoga poses gently stretch, tone and mobilise muscles and joints, helping to reduce and manage pain
Mental Health – Insomnia, stress, anxiety, depression, mood swings – deep breathing and meditation helps to induce relaxation, inner peace and calm
With regular yoga practice, you can expect to experience the following:
Reduced stress and anxiety with improved relaxation and mental health
Improved muscle tone, with an increase in strength
Improved joint mobility and overall flexibility
Pain management and prevention due to the increase in muscle length and better posture
Increased cardiovascular fitness due to the stamina required to hold postures