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On this week's episode: Hatha Yoga

Discover the depth of Hatha Yoga beyond physical postures. Dive into its ancient roots, multicultural heritage, and practical wisdom.

What is Hatha Yoga?
Hatha (Sanskrit: हठ) means "force" or "effort," referring to physical and energetic practices.

It represents the union of opposing forces: Ha (ह), the sun—active and energising, and Tha (ठ), the moon—restorative and calming.

Hatha Yoga unites upward-moving prana and downward-moving apana within the central energy channel (Sushumna Nadi) to awaken kundalini (Hatha Yoga Pradipika 1.2).

Origins & Influences

Hatha Yoga is deeply influenced by both Hindu and Shramana (Jain and Buddhist) traditions.

Key Hindu texts like Hatha Yoga Pradipika (15th century), Gheranda Samhita (17th century), and Shiva Samhita (15th–17th century) outline practices such as asana (postures), pranayama (breathwork), shatkarmas (cleansing practices), mudras (gestures), and bandhas (locks) to facilitate spiritual awakening.

Shramana traditions have also significantly shaped Hatha Yoga, emphasising asceticism, discipline, and meditation.

Tibetan Buddhist practices like tummo (inner heat meditation) share similarities with Hatha techniques.

The Amṛtasiddhi (11th century) notably introduces practices like mahāmudrā and mahābandha, central to later Hatha traditions.

Key Hatha Yoga Concepts

Central to Hatha Yoga is the subtle body framework, focusing on awakening and directing prana (life force) through nadis (energy channels) and chakras (energy centres).

Practices include physical postures, breath control, cleansing methods, mudras, bandhas, and meditation, aiming at harmonising body, mind, and spirit.

Practical Applications

Balance solar (energising) and lunar (calming) practices.

Begin with simple asanas and pranayama daily to build awareness and resilience. Incorporate mudras, cleansing methods, and meditation to deepen your practice, finding harmony between effort and ease.

Integrate Hatha into Your Life

Start simply—daily asana and mindful breathing. Include subtle practices like mudras and cleansing techniques for a deeper energetic experience. Balance activity with rest to support overall wellbeing.

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