hatha yoga

American  

[hath-uh-yoh-guh, huht-uh-] / ˈhæθ əˈyoʊ gə, ˈhʌt ə- /

noun

1. (in yoga) a method utilizing physical exercises to control the body and attain union of the self with the Supreme Being.

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hatha yoga British  

/ ˈhæθə, ˈhʌtə /

noun

1. (sometimes capitals) a form of yoga concerned chiefly with the regulation of breathing by exercises consisting of various postures designed to maintain healthy functioning of the body and to induce mental calm Compare raja yoga

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Etymology

Origin of hatha yoga

First recorded in 1810–20; from Sanskrit haṭhayoga, equivalent to haṭha “force” + yoga ( def. )

Example Sentences

Yoga Foundations is a slow-paced hatha yoga class for anyone and everyone.

From Washington Post • Jul. 28, 2017

“We would like them to prescribe gentle hatha yoga but they need to refer to appropriate yoga instructors who have experience of working with cancer patients.”

From The Guardian • Jun. 7, 2017

In the tenth to eleventh centuries, hatha yoga or “yoga of forceful exertion” emerged and involved the tantric manipulation and channeling of energy within the body.

From Salon • Mar. 27, 2016

Yoga for Insomnia is based on traditional hatha yoga practices and incorporates poses that stretch and relax the body.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 26, 2016

Krishnamacharya, a brilliant scholar who had sacrificed respectability to pursue the outré path of hatha yoga, was at the forefront of this renaissance.

From The New Yorker • Aug. 23, 2014