Santosha Yoga Studio
Hatha Yoga
Hatha Yoga is a small part of a very complex system– the system of yoga; a philosophy, way of life, discipline and practice. Hatha Yoga is the physical aspect of this system, designed to calm and focus the mind stretch, strengthen and release tension in every muscle and joint in the body. Traditionally it was practiced as a way of preparing the body to sit and concentrate for long periods of time during meditation.
The various postures (asana) of Hatha are taught in class using relaxation techniques and guided breathing exercises designed to shift your focus inward and help you to relax.
In the yogic philosophy, the state of one’s breath is directly connected and affected by the state of one’s mind. By learning to control and relax the breathing one, in turn, also learns to relax and soften the mind. In today’s hectic world many of us have forgotten how to truly allow ourselves to relax and trust in the process of life.
People of all ages, shapes and sizes can practice Hatha Yoga. The classes are taught according to individual needs and all poses can be modified to accommodate varying degrees of strength and flexibility. In Hatha the importance is not placed immediately on the execution of a perfect asana but rather on the process of reaching that place of comfort with the poses. Eventually the body gets stronger and the muscles begin to release chronic tightness and discomfort.
Hatha Yoga is the yoga of balanced force, designed to slowly bring the body into greater balance and symmetry. Often people have to patiently sift through the various tensions and resistance's we create in the habitual holdings of our body. The classes offer a safe and gentle atmosphere to be able to do that.
So whether you’re a seasoned athlete, or simply looking for ways to increase flexibility and reduce stress, yoga offers a gentle and effective approach to exercise and holistic health.
- With regular practice one’s body becomes stronger, leaner and more supple.
- Chronic pain lessens and sometimes often disappears, and the joints of the body move more freely and easily.
- Concentration deepens and conditions such as chronic fatigue, anxiety and depression begin to shift into a more vibrant positive and energetic outlook.
