How to Do Hatha Yoga
Hatha yoga stretches the body and ultimately calms and relaxes you. However, in the process, it also strengthens your body. Hatha yoga's main focal point centers on the relationship between movement and the effect of breathing it. In the western world, it is known to promote better overall health.
- Purchase books or DVDs to get a better understand of the process. There are also valuable resources online to help guide you.
- Start your routine on an empty stomach.
- Do not focus on any particular point with your eyes; relax them.
- Start in a standing position with your toes spread apart with your feet planted firmly on the floor. Make sure you focus on your posture, because if you do not maintain it, you do not receive all the benefits of Hatha.
- Choose a position from the plethora of options Hatha has to offer.
- Inhale a deep breath to length your spine.
- Move to it slowly, while exhaling. Certain poses require different breathing techniques, so be sure to check with the directions in your book, DVD or online resource.
- Hold the position based on the instructions to complete it. If you are struggling at a position, alter it to meet your needs or skip it completely. For instance, if the position deems it necessary to raise your leg to a particular elevation and you are unable to, just raise it to your comfort level. Hatha should never be uncomfortable, nor should it ever hurt.
- Choose your next position, and then take a deep breath. Exhale and move slowly to the stance.
- Continue this pattern of selecting a pose and breathing. Create a regimen out of it that works best for you.