Choose Hatha Yoga for Fitness and Well-Being

As popular as yoga is today, you might think that it’s a modern trend. Actually, yoga has been around since long before the time of Christ. Yoga originated in India, and its name has its origins in Sanskrit. The Sanskrit word, yui, means attachment, union or joining. This word is the root of the term, yoga. The intention of yoga is harmony and joining of body, mind and spirit.

There are many yoga styles, but all are based in a style called Hatha Yoga.This style was created during the 15th century by a Hindu sage known as Yogi Swatmarama. The most straightforward and pure form of Hatha Yoga involves a combination of physical postures, meditation and relaxation. From this basis, many variations have sprung.

One of the most well known and popular forms of Hatha Yoga is Ashtanga Yoga. This variation focuses on correct performance of a very specific and set series of poses that can be quite demanding. It can take up to 2 hours to complete a full set of Ashtanga poses. One example of these poses is the Sun Salutation. This excellent series of poses is beneficial to all practitioners from beginner to expert because it can be done at varying levels of difficulty and provides exercise and strengthening for every part of the body.

Another variation on Hatha Yoga is Iyengar yoga which got its start in the early 20th century with Yogi BKS Iyengar. This is a very demanding type of yoga which pays strict attention to the proper performance of each pose. Attention to precise detail is more important in this type of yoga than any other aspect.

Toward the middle 20th century, Bikram Yoga came into being. It was created by a yogi known as Bikram Choudy in India. This type of yoga is extremely challenging, and yet it is very popular. The reason for this is that it is a very effective method of weight loss. Today it is referred to as Power Yoga or Hot Yoga.

It is called Hot Yoga because it is done in temperatures of 100° or so with A 40 percent humidity level. It is believed that these conditions will increase detoxification of the body as well as weight loss while keeping the muscles flexible and warm.

Bikram Yoga is performed at a fast clip. Its 26 poses are done at a calisthenics rate of speed that encourages heavy perspiration and an increased heart rate. While it is an excellent choice for athletic people who are already up the challenge, Bikram Yoga is a poor choice for beginners.

A very good choice for beginners is basic Hatha Yoga. This gentle practice can be done at a rate and intensity that is suitable and beneficial for any level of fitness. This simple practice provides muscle conditioning, weight loss and improved joint and tendon flexibility.

My first introduction to yoga was a wonderful PBS television program known as Kathleen Hitchcock’s Hatha Yoga. Following this practice nightly throughout my high school years has had lifelong benefits. Unfortunately, this program is no longer available; however, there are many excellent Hatha Yoga videos and DVD’s available. Additionally, you might choose a Hatha Yoga class at your local YMCA, community college, or fitness center.

The practice of Hatha Yoga works to detoxify the body. Eating properly while practicing will increase the benefits of your practice. Follow a simple, whole foods eating plan rich in fiber and pure filtered water. The Mediterranean Eating Plan and the Fill Your Plate Eating Plan are two examples of simple, doable plans that will fulfill all of your nutritional needs and support your Hatha Yoga practice.

Copyright:SuzanneBennett:May 11, 2012