Hatha Yoga

Yoga is an ancient spiritual philosophy which originated in India over 2000 years ago.

Many people think that yoga is only the physical exercise of posture practice, but in fact, there are eight different 'limbs' of yoga, only one of which involves posture practice.

In class we also incorporate some of the other yoga 'limbs' of breathing exercises, concentration, and meditation. We also think about the philosophy of yoga and how this might apply to us and our lives.

Yoga works with the parasympathetic nervous system within the body, this is the system which allows us to feel calm and relaxed, so that yoga can help counter stress.Yoga teaches us to become aware of what's going on in our body and our mind, helping to create space for ourselves in a busy world.

'Ha' means sun and 'tha' moon in the ancient Indian language of Sanskrit. The symbols of the sun and moon suggest that in Hatha yoga we explore two sides of us: the sunny active outward looking, dynamic and disciplined parts of ourselves; as well as the quieter, gentler more inward-looking moon side. Hatha yoga works to balance and harmonise these two sides bringing them together in unity.

Hatha yoga is the basis for many styles of yoga which can be taken at different speeds, and with different emphasis and which have names to distinguish their style.

Onewithin Hatha yoga classes include breath work, posture, meditation and relaxation with a sprinkle of philosophy and some drawings from the other limbs of yoga.

We work towards balance, strength and flexibility in our practice. We take everything step by step, with options, so that everyone reaches a place that is right for them on any particular day, this makes the classes beginner friendly. Classes often contain some slow flow as we move from one posture to another.