Yoga is an ancient spiritual practice originating in India that has spread across the world and is now taught in health clubs, spas and gymnasiums to millions of people. It is considered as a form of exercise, with hatha being the most practiced form in the West. Meditation remains an important aspect of hatha yoga practice and has many positive psychological benefits.
History
Some of the first references to yoga were found in The Vedas, the early sacred scriptures that form the basis of Hinduism. The philosophies and teachings of yoga, which originated more than 6,000 years ago, have since been practiced and documented across the world. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that traditionally yoga, which can be translated as union between mind, body and spirit, is considered a complete lifestyle that provides a path to spiritual enlightenment.
Hatha Yoga
Hatha is the most practiced form of yoga in the Western world, according to "The British Wheel of Yoga," and is said to balance the mind and body. The word hatha is made up of the words "ha" and "tha," meaning sun and moon and is one of the four main traditions of tantra yoga. To many it is regarded as the roots of most other forms of yoga. Classes are usually between 45 and 90 minutes and focus on three main things: Asanas, the physical postures: Pranayama, the breathing; and Dhyana or meditation.
Importance of Meditation
Meditation is seen as one of the eight components of yoga practice. Known in Sanskrit as Dhyana, meditation is a regular feature of a hatha yoga class. According to All About Yoga, meditation aims to create an uninterrupted flow of concentration aimed to heighten one's awareness and oneness with the universe. The aim of Dhyana is to focus the mind on one single point or object to achieve a state of tranquility. Medication is usually practiced after the physical asanas at the end of a hatha yoga class.
Breathing
Another key feature of Hatha yoga is the practice of controlled breathing, referred to as Pranayama. The literal translation of pranayama is, "life force extension," and many yoga practitioners believe that regular practice can rejuvenate the body. In a hatha yoga class controlled and focused breathing is used while performing asanas and links breath, mind and emotions. Physically, it increases blood circulation, reduces oxygen consumption and improves the use efficiency of oxygen. Concentrating on breathing helps the mind feel alert and focused on the stretches during a class.
Benefits of Hatha Yoga
Mediation and relaxation have many psychological benefits. Regular practice can help promote better sleeping patterns, reduce stress and anxiety and help alleviate depression. Practicing yoga on a regular basis also helps raise fitness levels, increase flexibility and improve posture. Yoga is often seen as a complementary therapy and according to Cancer Research UK, some patients who have used yoga say that it helps calm their mind so that they can cope better with their cancer and its treatment.
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