About Hatha Yoga

Hatha Yoga also called Hatha Vidya is a system of yoga introduced by Yogi Swatmarama, a sage of 15th century India, and compiler of the Hatha Yoga Pradipika. The Sanskrit term Hatha means “force or determined effort”, and term Hatha Yoga is described as rigorous discipline. It is based on asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing techniques, also known as shatkarma) and meditation. Hatha is also 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 our effort and surrender in each pose. Hatha Yoga became popular in the west beginning in the second half of the 20th century, and is often referred to simply as “Yoga” in the context of health and physical exercise.

Hatha Yoga Classes