According to Siddha Yoga principles, every individual
is divine, the body, the mind, the energy that enlivens us; et al. Hatha
yoga enables us to identify the inner divine light. Also, it provides
many physical benefits in the sense that body becomes sturdy and
flexible, relaxing the muscles. The body even becomes more agile,
facilitating long sitting hours for meditation. Hatha Yoga is therefore
of prime importance in Siddha Yoga.
Hatha Yoga is basically a holistic yogic path, which includes moral
disciplines, physical exercises and meditation. Hatha represents
opposite energies like fire and water, male and female, positive and
negative; abiding the same concept as that of yin and yang. The main aim
of Hatha yoga is to balance the mind and the body through physical
exercises, controlled breathing and other mind relaxing methods.
The various asanas (yoga postures) render balance and strength to the
body thereby improving the overall physical health. The improved body
fitness enables sitting for meditation with firmness and comfort. Hatha
yoga even enhances the health and breeds qualities like joy,
steadfastness, and mental clarity. Thus, Hatha yoga practices fortifies
the body, stills the mind, and draws one deep inside.
After the body works in different postures, the hatha yoga classes
culminate with the Shavasana. Though it is one of the most distinct
poses in hatha yoga, yet it is very relaxing. After all the asanas are
done with, the energy channels of the body open up gently. This allows a
free flow of spiritual energy. The uniform motion of breath quiets the
mental activity and makes one conscious of the divine light within.
Thus, Hatha yoga is considered vital for the preparation of meditation.





