This is the yoga of the sun and moon. Etymologically, the Sanskrit word Hatha derives from Ham and Tham, translating to the solar and lunar forces, respectively. In yoga science, it is asserted there are two forces within one’s body: the mental force (lunar) and the vital force (solar). These forces function primarily within the pranic (energy) body of the individual, through two Nadis (channels) known as the Ida and the Pingala.

Or “royal” yoga, is also known as ashtanga (eightfold) yoga. This can more or less be said to be the yoga of meditation. First codified by the sage Patanjali at an undetermined date (estimates range from 800 BCE to 100 CE) in his Yoga Sutras, this form of practice guides the practitioner through the realms of meditative, yogic consciousness, which are far from always being joyful, happy places. For one who undertakes to this form of yoga, it is absolutely necessary that one has first practiced some easier, “gentler” yogas first, such as Hatha, Karma, and Bhakti.

The Asana and Pranayama are only necessary non-essential, from the point of view of true yoga. They do not play an active role in the practice of yoga, though they are essential in order to & ring about flexibility of the body, and make the body fit and agile. Asanas are certain ways of sitting “STHIR SUKHAM ASANAM”; that is, stableand mentally pleasant is Asana.