Hatha yoga and Kundalini yoga
state the difference?
Both Hatha Yoga and Kundalini Yoga are different disciplines or styles of Yoga, as their purpose, as well as the asanas or the poses vary. Hatha Yoga was originated in India in the 15th century and it was introduced by Yogi Swatmarama. Thereafter, many other styles of yoga have originated from Hatha Yoga, Kundalini Yoga being only one of them.
Hatha Yoga
The term Hatha has its origin in the Sanskrit words “Ha”, that refers to Sun and “Tha”, which refers to moon. Therefore, Hatha Yoga can be described as an ancient practice that unites the opposites. This style of Yoga works to maintain a balance between the body and the mind, through physical poses and breathing techniques. Many Yoga experts also refer to Hatha Yoga as the Forceful Yoga, as a lot of physical effort is required to practice it correctly. The poses that are a part of Hatha Yoga mainly help to stimulate the internal organs and stretch the muscles. This yoga style includes standing, sitting and lying postures, the most common ones being:
- Bidalasana (The Cat Pose)
- Bhujangasana (The Cobra Pose)
- Dhanurasana (The Bow Pose)
- Salabhasana (The Locust Pose)
- Setu bandhasana (The Bridge Pose)
Kundalini Yoga
Kundalini means the spiritual energy or life force that is located at the base of your spine. The purpose of Kundalini yoga is to awaken the sleeping energy, so that it can run up the spine, to the crown of the head. On its way, this spiritual energy is said to pass through each of the chakras that are placed along the spine. Kundalini Yoga experts claim that there are three knots in our body that restrict the flow of energy. These knots are placed on the base of the spine, the heart as well as the eyebrows. Various Kundalini asanas and breathing techniques are used to clear these obstacles. Some of the most common kundalini yoga poses include:
- Sukhasana (The Easy Pose)
- Padmasana (The Lotus Pose)
- Virasana (The Hero Pose)
- Vajrasana (The Thunderbolt Pose or The Rock Pose)
- Siddhasana (The Perfect Pose)
There are different health benefits associated with these styles of yoga. However, it is important to check with a health care provider, before taking up any form of yoga.
Submitted by A V on August 7, 2013 at 06:52
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