Date posted:
September 4, 2021
About Hatha Yoga
In the West today, what we refer to as Hatha yoga is a gentle paced practise, which can also be challenging, with the emphasis on stretching the muscles and improving flexibility, whilst also promoting mindfulness. Hatha yoga is made up of slow, deliberate movements, moving through the asanas to gently stretch the muscles, using the breath to extend and open up.
There are hundreds of different poses in Hatha yoga, which are held for several breaths before flowing into the next. Everyone can work at their own pace, building core strength and flexibility at the level that is right for you.
Anyone can do Hatha yoga, no matter how old or how fit they might be. People often worry that they are not flexible enough to do yoga, but it is like saying that you are too dirty to take a bath; the stiffer you are, the greater the benefits!
Hatha yoga also incorporates mindfulness and relaxation into the practise, leaving you feeling calm and refreshed in body and mind. The mother of all yoga styles, Hatha yoga’s origins stem from the observation of the harmony of nature, with yogis aiming for grounding and flexibility, like the trees and mountains around them. At its heart is the eightfold path, the eight limbs that form the discipline and philosophy of yoga.
Hatha yoga has been practised for centuries – with good reason. Research shows that Hatha yoga helps with:
- Increased flexibility in the muscles and joints – Hatha yoga improves flexibility and is ideal for older adults looking to improve the range of movement in their joints.
- Core strength – Hatha yoga can increase core muscle strength and balance.
- Stress reduction – a regular practise has been found to reduce stress levels
- Reduced depression symptoms – regular Hatha yoga practice can help to decrease levels of anxiety and depression.
We offer a range of different Hatha Yoga classes at Hairu Yoga in our Munich studio, with something suitable for all levels.
Book online or call +49 89 21892993 for more information