Practice
Hatha
Haṭhaहठ· HUT-hahforce; also sun (ha) and moon (tha)
Hatha yoga is the branch of yoga concerned with physical practices — posture, breath and cleansing — that most modern yoga descends from.
The word is often read as the union of ha (sun) and tha (moon), symbolising the balancing of opposing energies. Today 'Hatha' also names a gentler, slower-paced class style.
Frequently asked questions
- What is Hatha yoga?
- The physical branch of yoga — postures, breathing and purification. Most modern yoga styles grow from Hatha; as a class name it usually means a slower, foundational practice.