Hatha Yoga as Meditation

"Students of Mr. B.K.S. Iyengar, world-known teacher and author of Light on Yoga, have learned that asanas are a strong spiritual discipline. Through the practice of asana (poses), the student can unequivocally learn about their own shortcomings. Of course, the physical shortcomings are the easiest to detect. But the thoroughness of Mr. lyengar's approach also pinpoints mental hurdles to Self-knowledge. This occurs through several avenues."

"This dynamic method of Hatha Yoga also promotes spiritual growth through its very profound effect on the ego. Because physical shortcomings are brought immediately into consciousness with this method, the student quickly learns humility; they learn that in the past they have practiced those asanas which were easy, avoiding those asanas which were difficult. Through the understanding of their practice of asana, the student perceives that their attitude about life in general and about spiritual development is probably much the same."

Asana practice functions as a strong spiritual discipline that reveals personal limitations. Regular practice strengthens and flexibilizes the body while regulating the nervous system. Physical integration reduces mental disturbance caused by bodily imbalances, producing a calmer mind that supports sustained self-inquiry. The practice exposes ego patterns and cultivates humility by making obvious the tendency to favor easy postures and avoid difficult ones. Awareness of these patterns encourages deliberate work on challenging asanas and analogous spiritual tasks. Continued sincere practice integrates Hatha techniques into the broader path of Yoga, turning physical progress into deeper self-awareness.

Read at Yoga Journal