The word yoga, from the Sanskrit word yuj, means to yoke or bind, and is often interpreted as "union" or a method of discipline.

The Indian sage PatanjaliLinks to an external site. is believed to have collated the practice of yoga into the Yoga SutraLinks to an external site. an estimated 2,000 years ago. The Sutra outlines eight limbs of yoga: the yamasLinks to an external site. (restraints), niyamasLinks to an external site.(observances), asanaLinks to an external site. (postures), pranayamaLinks to an external site. (breathing), pratyaharaLinks to an external site. (withdrawal of senses), dharana (concentration), dhyani (meditationLinks to an external site.), and samadhi (absorption). 

In Fleur's classes, we are mostly engaged in the third limb, asana, which is a program of physical postures designed to purify the body and provide the physical strength and stamina required for long periods of meditation. We also focus on the fourth limb, pranayama, which is breathing.

What does Hatha yoga mean?

Hatha yogaLinks to an external site. refers to a set of physical exercises (known as asanas or postures), and sequences of asanas, designed to align your skin, muscles, and bones. The postures are also designed to open the many channels of the body—especially the main channel, the spine—so that energy can flow freely.

Hatha yoga is a path toward creating balance and uniting opposites. In our physical bodies we develop a balance of strength and flexibility. 

Hatha yoga is a powerful tool for self-transformation. It asks us to bring our attention to our breath, which helps us to still the fluctuations of the mind and be more present of each moment.