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The word Hatha is derived from ha meaning sun (positive energy) and tha meaning moon(negative
energy). Hatha yoga strives to balance these two contrary but complementary elements which represent the masculine
and feminine (yin and yang), strength and flexibility. This form of Yoga focuses on the regulation of the breath,
gentle stretching, and relaxation. Often seen as a part of Raja Yoga, Hatha Yoga combines the ability to act and
the ability to reflect. This yoga system teaches us how to help nature to generate and store up more life current
than is used up and also teaches us how to send this life current down to all tissues of the body, promoting their
health through contact with inner cosmic energy. Unlike Raja Yoga though, Hatha Yoga is more concerned with
the body. It is best known as a series of body postures (asanas) such as the well known lotus position
(Padmasana). Regular consistent practice of these postures improves Immune, Respiratory, Circulatory,
Digestive and Nervous Systems and increases flexibility, strength, willpower and concentration. Unlike
high-impact workouts which stress the body and target only limited muscle groups, Hatha Yoga encompasses a
complete body/mind conditioning. No surprise then that Hatha Yoga is the most popular form of yoga in the world
today and is attracting millions of people worldwide, making it the most common form of exercise for today's
lifestyle.
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