(My Yoga Instructor - College of Santa Fe)
The goals of Hatha Yoga are realized through a combination of breath techniques called Pranayamas, exercises called Asanas or postures, Diet consciousness, and Relaxation. The postures are not only designed to stretch and activate every muscle in the body, but they affect all of the bodily functions as well: the circulatory, elimination, digestion, endocrine, and the nervous systems.
In Yoga the mind is important because it must concentrate on each slow, rhythmic posture and its benefits. The concentration is a form of mental discipline which can be applied to all phases of ones life. By concentrating on the postures, one needs to be aware of how to breathe. The Yoga breath utilizes the full lung capacity. it is a powerful tranquilizer and energizer without any bad side effects. Those practicing Yoga breathing activates the entire lung structure.
The traditional Yoga diet is vegetarian. Yoga purists still adhere to this regimen, but most American Yoga Instructors advocate a balanced diet, with an emphasis on natural foods and those not overly processed or refined.
Relaxation is a very important part when doing Yoga because it allows one to go deeper within and to stay attuned to his emotions and thoughts. Relaxation is practiced after every posture at the end of the Yoga session. This not only gives the individual a chance to let go of any tensions and pressures that one may feel but also, allows for one to get a sense of deeper connection within through this quiet time of reflection.
Hatha Yoga gives everyone the chance to become healthier in body, mind, feelings, and spirit no matter what age, as long as one is willing to change for the bette
