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Step 1
Always breathe through your nose when you do Hatha Yoga, unless a pose instructs otherwise. Breathing through the nostrils not only warms the air to body temperature, but also lengthens and deepens the breath, allowing more energy to reach every cell in your body.
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Step 2
Practice good posture when you do Hatha Yoga. When in a standing position, press your feet firmly into the floor, toes spread. When straightening your legs, avoid hyperextension of the knees. Keep your belly soft so as not to restrict breathing or movement. Keep your shoulder blades on your back, as though a weight is pulling them down toward the floor, pushing your shoulders back and your chest forward.
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Step 3
Before moving into a pose, inhale deeply to expand the body and lengthen the spine. Then exhale into the pose, unless otherwise instructed.
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Step 4
Never force or strain a pose in Hatha Yoga. Follow the instructions carefully, but if something hurts or is uncomfortable, alter it or skip the pose altogether.
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Step 5
Keep your eyes open and soft, not focusing on anything in particular.
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Step 6
Create a regular practice routine when you do Hatha Yoga, such as once a week or once a day, depending on your schedule and interest. Keep in mind, though, that the more often you do Hatha Yoga, the more comfortable the poses will become.
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Step 7
Do Hatha Yoga on an empty stomach. Wait 2 to 4 hours after you’ve eaten, depending on how heavy the meal.
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Step 8
Get a Hatha Yoga book to read specific instructions on how to do each pose. Watch an instructor practice the poses on a Hatha Yoga television show or DVD. If possible, join a Hatha Yoga class, or form a group with those more experienced than you. They can give you the feedback you need to ensure you’re doing the poses correctly.
