Hatha Yoga

Look at the schedule for any yoga studio and you’ll see a variety of class names: Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Iyengar, Bikram, Power Yoga, and more. Most of the yoga practiced today, however, stems from one philosophy that originated thousands of years ago.

Hatha Yoga is an umbrella term to describe any style of yoga that originated from the classical teachings of master yogis in 15th- and 16th-century India. The main components of any Hatha yoga class are the postures (asanas, in Sanskrit) and the breathing techniques (pranayama), although there is traditionally a focus on meditation and self-reflection, as well.

The word hatha translates to “sun and moon,” which, in yogic philosophy, refers to our masculine and feminine qualities and our attempt to find a balance between strength and flexibility. It also means “forceful,” and so Hatha Yoga is often thought of as the physical branch of yoga although classes incorporate the spiritual and meditative elements, as well.

Hatha Yoga has been shown to have numerous physical benefits: Studies have shown that a regular practice can improve strength, flexibility, and physical fitness; and help alleviate chronic health conditions, such as back pain or insomnia. [Site: Mayo Clinic] People who practice yoga (but not those engaging in other types of physical activity) are also less likely to be obese than those who don’t, in part because they seem to be more mindful about what they eat. [Source: Framson]

There’s also evidence that it’s good for the mind, as well. It can boost your mood and help relieve stress and anxiety on daily basis, and a 2013 study from Duke University found that yoga (along with medication) can improve symptoms of psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and ADHD. [Source: Sifferlin]

If you have an existing health condition, you should talk to your doctor before trying yoga — and let your instructor know about any concerns you have before class. Luckily, most postures can be modified, though, so that everyone can reap the many health benefits of yoga.

Source: https://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/diet-fitness/yoga/quick-tips-hatha-yoga-explained.htm