Hatha Yoga is a traditional branch of yoga that focuses on balancing the body and mind through yoga postures (asanas), controlled breathing (pranayama), and meditation.
It is designed to help improve a person's physical, mental and emotional health. It is often considered a form of preparation for other, more advanced types of yoga, and is accessible to people of all ages and skill levels.
Hatha Yoga works with a variety of body movements and postures, including:
Asanas: Yoga postures that are held for a period of time, working the muscles, joints, and nervous system.
Pranayama: Regulate conscious breathing.
There are different pranayama techniques, including:
- Ujjayi: a subtle sound is produced when expelling the air, similar to the noise of the waves of the sea.
- Nadi Shodhana: Also known as the alternate nose technique, it involves alternating breathing in and out through one nose and then the other.
- Kapalabhati: this is a quick series of strong exhalations followed by passive inhalations.
Meditation: It can include concentration on an object, sound, or breath, or involve visualization or reflection on a mantra or positive affirmation.
Yoga meditation is done in a calm and comfortable environment, usually sitting up straight with your eyes closed.
Mantra and chant: Repeating sacred words or singing devotional songs to improve concentration and spiritual connection.
