Hatha Yoga and Pranayama
Hatha yoga refers to a set of physical exercises known as asanas, designed to align your muscles and bones. The postures are also designed to open the many channels of the body — especially the main channel, the spine — so that energy can flow freely.
Hatha is translated as ha meaning sun and tha meaning moon. This refers to the balance of masculine aspects, active, hot, sun — and feminine aspects, receptive, cool, moon — within all of us. Hatha yoga is a path toward creating balance and uniting opposites. In our physical bodies we develop a balance of strength and flexibility. We also learn to balance effort and surrender in each pose.
Pranayama is generally translated as breath control and consists of techniques designed to regulate and harmonize the breath and it’s rhythm, recognizing the connection between the breath, the mind, and the emotions.
Hatha Yoga combined with Pranayama, can be a powerful tool for self-transformation.