The Practise
Hatha yoga is not merely an exercise system nor is it a religion – it is an ancient holistic system of health and self-development that begins with the body as a tangible way to affect all aspects of our being – physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. In the yogic view of the human being we are composed of five koshas or layers of the body – hatha yoga is a movement from the outermost layer (the Annamaya kosha) to the inner core (Anandamaya Kosha). It is a long process of opening, strengthening and aligning the physical structure to clear the channels or nadis and let the prana flow.
Stira Sukham Asanam
Asanas should be comfortable & steady
Yoga Sutras, Chapter 2 v 46
Throughout your practise of Asanas, the deep, slow breathing increases your life-energy and positively affects your body, mind and soul –the mental layer (Manomaya kosha) is calmed and the wanderings of the mind are stilled.
Yogas chitta vritti nirodhah Whether in touch with these layers in the beginning or not it is helpful if your practise is ultimately directed towards these deep layers. Your practise should override your tight hamstrings, stiff back and rigid shoulders so that eventually with patience and practise you will transform into a place where you can abide in peace and open on all levels.
Yoga is restraining the activities of the mind
Yoga Sutras, Chapter 1 v.2
