|
An Introduction to Hatha Yoga Definitions |
The most prevalent form of yoga therapy in the West is the Hatha Yoga. This form of Yoga is a widely practiced combination of physical and deep breathing exercises. These exercises bring in vitality to the body, rejuvenate our senses, and imbibe the practitioner with a sense of spirituality.
Hatha yoga is also called Hatha Vidya, or the knowledge of yoga. The first of the Hatha Yoga definitions can be traced back to the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, which was written by the famous yogi Swatamarama. The book is a collection of the writer's own experiences and perspectives of yoga training.
In the book, the author has described the various Hatha Yoga definitions and other tasks related to the practice. These consist of the asana and mudra (physical exercise), pranayama (breathing exercises), Samadhi (the right kind of atmosphere), Kriyas, Bandhas (yoga poses and yoga postures), and Shakti (sources of strength).
The Hatha Yoga is believed to be derived from a culmination of different yoga practices and sects such as the Tantra Yoga, or practices of sexuality, and the Sahajayana, followers of spontaneity. Some of the elements of this form of yoga are believed to be taken from both the Mahayana and the Hinayana sects of Buddhism.
Do note that this form differs from the Raja yoga in the sense that it focuses more on the generation of the energy, and giving direction to our creative energy. This yoga philosophy has been defined as the Shaktkarma and the Hatha Yoga Pradipika focusing on tapping out energy. |
