Gently Forceful Yoga?

TriyogaYogaPhilosophy
Written By Daniel Simpson

An afternoon workshop at Triyoga Shoreditch

The Original Physical Yoga: Theory + Practice

With Daniel Simpson

Saturday, 13 April (14:30 - 17:00)

Book now at triyoga.co.uk

Book now at triyoga.co.uk

Most postural yoga is technically called “hatha”. Nowadays, this term is often used for a gentler class, but its original meaning was “forceful”.

We’ll explore where this came from and how it made yoga more dynamic, evolving into modern forms of practice. We’ll begin by discussing yogic texts, before implementing some of their teachings.

This workshop is for anyone who wants a better understanding of how yoga evolved from seated meditation to contemporary approaches.

FAQ

What can I expect?

You will:

  • Read verses from the Dattatreya Yogashastra, the earliest text to teach hatha yoga.

  • Learn some traditional techniques of asana, pranayama and mudra.

  • Have a chance to ask general questions about yoga history, philosophy and practice.

What will I gain from attending?

You will leave:

  • Better informed about modern yoga’s roots.

  • Feeling inspired to read more yogic texts.

  • Knowing which pose is the best of 8.4 million.

The workshop is open for booking at triyoga.co.uk. It costs £30, or £25 if you book before 6 April.

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Find out more

Featured
The Meaning of Hatha
The Meaning of Hatha

What exactly is hatha? In modern yoga usage, it often refers to a slow approach – perhaps in contrast to flow – but originally it covered all aspects of physical practice, from breathing techniques to arm balances. In Sanskrit, the traditional language of yogic texts, the word hatha means “force”. It is therefore a “forceful” form of yoga, whose dynamic techniques have powerful effects. Another meaning of hatha is “obstinacy”, which suggests a need for strength of will.

Daniel Simpson
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