हरिः ॐ
Hari Om.
Traditional Tantric Hatha Yoga
The ancient yogis used the physical practice of working with asanas (physical postures) to access meditation and ultimate ‘bliss’ (samadhi in Sanskrit).
Hatha Yoga focuses on harnessing the breath in order to quieten and calm the mind so that we can access the inner voice of truth and wisdom that sits in each of us. Traditional Tantric Hatha includes a full spectrum of practices to help to guide and underpin our individual lives:
Asanas (physical postures)
Pranyama (breathing techniques)
Kriya (meditation)
Kırtan/Bhakti yoga (chanting)
Pranadharyna (cultivation and movement of energy)
Yantra (Numerology)
Ayurveda (literally translated meaning ‘The Science of Life’)
Traditional Tantric Hatha focuses on using the breath and longer holds in postures to help quieten the mind and soften our thoughts in preparation for meditation.
It can be said that the measure of our practice is reflected in our lives off the mat. By harnessing our breath and energy, channelling it through the core of our being, there is a rediscovery, or remembrance, of the true self.
The more space we have for our thoughts on the mat, the more space and time we begin to offer ourselves for reflection off the mat. Allowing for greater perspective and an increased sense of inner well being. We begin to make healthier choices, which compounds the process and we begin to seek out and understand what contentment is for us.
As we create space through a yogic practice, the more we realise we have ultimate power over our thoughts and choices. We may not be able to change the situation or control life happening around us, but we can master our responses.
One of the fundamental beliefs in yoga is that if we are thriving, the world around us is thriving.
We are all conditioned to look outside of ourselves for answers - to seek approval, to compare, to do what is ‘right’. Yoga teaches us that we already have all we need to find the answers. We’ve always known. We just need to remember.
If we believe that our behaviour is who we are, we remain locked in our minds, and our bodies. If we can start to see that our behaviour is in response to an imbalance - be it physical or emotional, we can begin to separate our thoughts and become kinder to ourselves, and ultimately those around us.
This means that we MUST love ourselves, in order to bring the greatest amount of good to the world. Cutting off our supply of positive, healing energy (the breath) has a negative impact on our bodies, minds and those that we love that most.
Yoga Nidra or ‘Yogi Sleep”
Experience the sensation of being totally aware and yet fully relaxed at the same time.
Consciousness is awake, whilst our bodies and minds sleep.
In this deep stage of relaxation, our bodies are able process and heal.
Scientific research has now proven that Yoga Nidra can have huge benefits for those suffering with PTSD, sleep disorders, anxiety and panic disorders for several reasons:
Deep healing for the mind and body
Cognitive development, with a primary focus on honing your intellect
Transformation and healing at the level of the mind
Spiritual awakening - uncovering our truest sense of self and purpose
More reading and research can be found through the Yoga Nidra Network website.