The word 'hatha' derives from the Sanskrit root ‘ha’, meaning ‘sun’, and ‘tha’ meaning ‘moon’. In Hatha yoga we practice the traditional Asana (physical postures) and Pranayama (breathing techniques), along with relaxation and meditation.
More specifically, Hatha yoga refers to the female energy and male energy, the cold and hot, negative and positive energy, and the interaction of these two forces throughout the universe, and indeed within ourselves. Regular practice of yoga helps
to unify our own subtle forces, the sun and moon within, bringing harmony, balance, health and peace.
Proper yoga breathing is the core concept and important aspect of a Hatha Yoga practice. Mindful yoga breathing helps the yoga practitioner to increase oxygen intake, decrease carbon dioxide levels, and experience the relaxation response. In this
state, the yoga student experiences increased focus, flexibility and peace of mind harmony, balance, health and peace.
For the ancient yogis, the purpose of Hatha Yoga is to prepare the body for prolonged sitting and meditation so that the yoga practitioner can reach enlightenment, super consciousness. However, in modern world the goal of Hatha Yoga is simply to
increase strength, flexibility, balance and coordinating, while decreasing stress.