Hatha Yoga postures are very different from other forms of physical exercise. Unlike calisthenics and competitive sports which emphasize aggressive behavior and vigorous muscular activity, often to the point of exhaustion, Hatha Yoga postures are ideally practiced in a carefully designed sequence and at a pace and level of effort that allows for precise muscular control, smooth flowing movements, and deep respiration. Along the way our ability to concentrate, persevere and remain focussed increases. Ultimately, a deep level of inner calm and a warm glow of extreme vitality begins to prosper within us. Within the broad scope of Hatha Yoga there are deeply healing and rejuvenating exercises for anyone and everyone - young and old, healthy and unhealthy, strong and weak. People of all ages, nationalities, races, creeds, religions and of both sexes can benefit from Hatha Yoga.

Gentle stretching exercises, rhythmic breathing and deep relaxation techniques are emphasized in the beginning practice of yoga, along with instruction in nutrition and diet that promotes physical and mental health through positive living and attitudes. Through continued practice of these techniques, the student of Hatha Yoga quickly experiences the benefits of increased relaxation, normalized blood pressure, the relief of minor back problems, and a steadied metabolism. When combined with deep breathing exercises and meditation techniques, these practices also bring the student a sense of emotional calmness and a feeling of mental peace.

As noted earlier, most students are introduced to this ancient science of yoga through their encounter with Hatha Yoga. There are other forms of yoga, though, for in it's largest sense the word yoga refers to mans aspiration to achieve union with Supreme, or Cosmic Consciousness. The following forms of yoga offer different paths for different personalities. They all lead to the same goal and are fully described in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, the first written compilation of yogic knowledge, which dates from around 200 B.C.:

Jnana Yoga -- union through knowledge and study

Bhakti Yoga -- union through devotion and selfless love

Karma Yoga -- union through service, work and action

Mantra Yoga -- union through sound vibration and speech

Raja Yoga -- union through control of the mind

Thousands of years ago, the great yogis of India spontaneously experienced Hatha Yoga postures as a natural part of their spiritual practices. Arising from deep states of meditation, their postures flowed smoothly, without any conscious effort on their part. In their meditative states the yogis did not consciously perform the postures; the postures happened spontaneously and were an integral part of meditation.

Today Hatha Yoga is gaining in popularity as people realize the importance of a comprehensive system of health that addresses a broad range of physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs.