What is Pranayama?
Pranayama is generally defined as breath control. Although this interpretation may seem correct in view of the practices involved, it does not convey the full meaning of the term. The word pranayama is comprised of two roots: prana and Ayama. Prana stands for vital energy or life force. It is the force that exists in all beings and things. The word Yama means control. And is used to denote various rules or codes of conduct. However, it is not the word that is joined to prana to form pranayama; the correct word is Ayama which has far more implications. Ayama is defined as extension or expansion. Thus, the word pranayama means extension or expansion of the dimension of prana. The techniques of pranayama provide the method whereby the life force can be activated and regulated in order to go beyond one’s normal boundaries or limitations and attain a higher state of vibratory energy and awareness..
Four Aspects of Pranayama
Pooraka or inhalation.
Rechaka or exhalation.
Antar Kumnhaka or internal breath retention.
Bahir Kumbhaka or external breath retention.
What is Hatha Yoga
Hatha in Sanskrit literally means ‘stubborn’. Therefore, Hatha Yoga means the stubborn practice of yoga without the interference of the five senses and the mind. Generally, people think of Hatha Yoga only as asana (yoga poses) practice. But it is the austere practice of asana, pranayama, dharana, and dhyana to achieve the sublime state of Samadhi, or enlightenment. In Samadhi, the practitioner is free from the illusion of form, time, and space. Asana is just one of the six practices in this path. Hatha Yoga originates from Raja Yoga. It is the simpler version (without Yamas and Niyamas) of Raja Yoga. To put it simply, you can say all the yoga poses and pranayama exercises can be classified as Hatha Yoga. So, if you practice any yoga asanas or pranayama exercises, you are practicing Hatha. It is also interesting to note that some teachers explain Hatha as Ha (sun) + Tha (moon) yoga, because of the fact that Hatha Yoga helps to purify our solar (Pingla) and lunar (Ida) channels.
Literally however, Hatha means ‘force’ and is more traditionally defined as ‘the yoga of force’, or ‘the means of attaining a state of yoga through force’. So Hatha yoga can be considered as anything you might do with the body, including:
Asana – yoga postures (practised in any style of ‘yoga’)
Pranayama – breathing techniques
Mantra – chanting or reciting
Mudra – hand gestures
Shatkriyas and Shatkarmas – cleansing techniques
Types of visualisation
Yoga for Relaxation Mind and Body
Yoga is claimed to provide numerous advantages for both mental and physical health. A regular practice has numerous mental and physical health benefits. Some benefits, such as increased flexibility, are immediately noticeable. Yoga is a practice from ancient times that brings the mind and body together. It is derived from the Sanskrit word "yuji," which means "yoke" or "union." It is a combination of breathing techniques, meditation, and positions that promote relaxation and stress reduction.
Here are some of the most important yoga advantages.
Strengthens Body
Brings Mental Calmness
Enhances Flexibility
Improves Heart Health
Ensures Better Breathing
Enhances Balance
Promotes Joint Health
Better Sleep
