Hatha Yoga is a traditional form of yoga that emphasizes physical postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama), and meditation. The word “hatha” itself is a combination of two Sanskrit terms: “ha,” meaning sun, and “tha,” meaning moon. This reflects the balance of opposing forces, such as strength and flexibility, within the practice. Hatha Yoga aims to harmonize the body, mind, and spirit through a series of physical and mental exercises.

One of the distinctive features of Hatha Yoga is its focus on asanas, which are physical postures designed to align the body and promote physical strength, flexibility, and balance. Through a combination of these poses and controlled breathing techniques, practitioners seek to cultivate a sense of inner calm and balance. Regular practice of Hatha Yoga is believed to not only improve physical well-being but also enhance mental clarity and emotional stability.

In a typical Hatha Yoga class, practitioners move through a series of asanas, holding each pose for a period of time while paying attention to their breath.