hatha yoga

[ hath-uh-yoh-guh, huht-uh- ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

(in yoga) a method utilizing physical exercises to control the body and attain union of the self with the Supreme Being.

hatha yoga

/ ˈhʌtə; ˈhæθə /

See raja yoga
sometimes capitals a form of yoga concerned chiefly with the regulation of breathing by exercises consisting of various postures designed to maintain healthy functioning of the body and to induce mental calm Compare raja yoga

First recorded in 1810–20; from Sanskrit haṭhayoga, equivalent to haṭha “force” + yoga ( def )

C20: from Sanskrit hatha force + yoga

To this class belong all systems which involve the use of drugs, invocation of elementals, or the practices of Hatha Yoga.

Hatha yoga emphasizes physical flexibility; raja yoga teaches breathing techniques and meditation.

Hatha yoga, because of its focus on the body, belongs to the family of approaches we are considering here.

Yoga instructors (raja yoga rather than hatha yoga) also teach meditation.

April 24, 2024gallimaufry

[gal-uh-maw-free ]

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