Hatha Yoga

Question 1

Hatha yoga’s original writings were…

Answer 1

Patanjali Maharishi’s yoga sutras (aphorisms) written in Sanskirit around 400 AD. Described as consisting of 8 limbs, or disciplines, referred to as the eightfold path.

Question 2

Eight Limbs of Yoga

Answer 2

Yamas - focus on how we relate to others
Niyamas - how we relate to ourselves
Asanas - postures practices in yoga
Pranayama - breathing techniques 
Pratyahara - withdrawal of the senses
Dharana - concentration
Dhyana - uninterrupted awareness
Samadhi - profound interconnectedness with all living things. Enlightenment

Question 3

Yamas

Answer 3

Focus on how we relate to others. Five moral constraints:
Ahimsa (non-harming)
Satya (truthfulness)
Asteya (non-stealing)
Bramacharya (moderation)
Agarigraha (generosity)

Question 4

Niyamas

Answer 4

How we relate to ourselves. Five observances:
Sauca (purity)
Santosa (contentment)
Tapas (self discipline)
Svadhyaya (self study)
Isvara Pranidhana (surrender to the divine)

Question 5

What is Hatha Yoga?

Answer 5

Hatha Yoga is a preparatory process of Yoga.