What EXACTLY is Hatha Yoga?

The word Hatha directly translates to “forceful” referring to the physical practice, but when broken down the component “Ha” means sun, “Tha” means moon and “yoga” means to yolk, or to unify. Hatha yoga joins together the energies of the masculine sun and the feminine moon to create balance and harmony within the practitioner. The main focus in hatha yoga is on the physical postures and breath control, the purpose of this practice is not to “master” the poses and breath control, it is just that, a practice. “The key to finding peace in yoga is to keep coming back to the practice” –  Darren Main -Yoga and the Path of the Urban Mystic
. It is a great place for a beginner to become comfortable with yoga, learn the basic poses and learn breathing and relaxation techniques. Of all the styles of yoga, hatha yoga is the most popular in the western world. Hatha studios are opening and flooding with students on nearly every corner.

Many students find that after practicing hatha yoga they experience:

• Increased flexibility
• Improved circulation
• Improved posture
• Weightloss
• Increased muscle tone
• Reduced PMS symptoms
• Fewer aches and/or relief from chronic pain
• A calm, inner peace
• And a healthy, positive attitude

Commonly recommended by doctors, hatha yoga is one of the best exercises for pregnant women, people with arthritis and people with heart disease. A person can practice Hatha yoga in a local studio, in his or her own home, really anywhere that is quiet and safe. Hatha yoga does not need any demanding equipment. All you need is a safe, quiet place, comfortable clothing and anywhere between 20 and 90 minutes. Some practitioners prefer the use of a
Yoga Mat. For more information on what to expect,what to bring, and yoga etiquette check out this article Yoga For Beginners