Updated 3 November 2026
- Hatha Yoga joins posture, breath control, seals and meditation
- The Hatha Yoga Pradipika (15th century) names Matsyendranath and Gorakhnath among its masters
- The Goraksha Shataka, attributed to Gorakhnath, teaches a six-limbed path
- Learn from a qualified teacher; do not force breath practices
Most yoga classes today descend, in part, from a medieval current of practice that the Nath yogis helped to shape. This note explains the idea simply, and what a beginner can safely take from it.
What “Hatha” means
Hatha Yoga is the branch of yoga that works through the body: posture (asana), breath control (pranayama), seals (mudra) and meditation. The word is often explained as ha (sun) and tha (moon), the two energies that practice aims to balance, though scholars also read “hatha” as “force” or “effort.” Its goal in the older texts is a steady body and mind fit for deep meditation.
Where the Naths come in
The Nath Sampradaya, whose teachers are traditionally traced to Matsyendranath and Gorakhnath, is closely linked to Hatha Yoga’s growth. Gorakhnath is remembered as the one who organised the order and gave bodily practice a central place. The Hatha Yoga Pradipika, written in the 15th century by Svatmarama, lists Matsyendra and Goraksha among the earlier masters of the method.
Two texts to know
- Goraksha Shataka — a short “hundred-verse” text attributed to Gorakhnath, teaching a yoga of six limbs: posture, breath control, withdrawal of the senses, concentration, meditation and absorption.
- Hatha Yoga Pradipika — a fuller manual from the 15th century that collects earlier teachings on posture, cleansing, breath and the awakening of inner energy.
The Siddha Siddhanta Paddhati, also associated with the Nath school, adds the philosophy behind the practice.
What the tradition emphasises
- A living teacher. Practices pass from guru to student, not from books alone.
- Moderation. Eating, sleeping and exertion should be balanced.
- Patience. Progress is measured over years.
- The goal beyond the body. Posture and breath prepare the ground for meditation and self-knowledge.
Sensible first steps
- Begin with simple postures and easy, natural breathing rather than forceful techniques.
- Learn breath practices only from a qualified teacher, and stop if you feel dizzy or strained.
- If you have a medical condition, are pregnant or are elderly, check with your doctor first.
- Practise a little every day in a quiet, clean place, ideally on an empty stomach.
This is general information, not instruction in any specific practice.
A place to sit quietly
For many visitors the most helpful “practice” is a quiet room and an early morning. Triloknath Ashram, in the Nath lineage of Guru Gorakhnath, offers exactly that at Bhavnath Taleti. Read about the ashram, see the nine Naths, or call +91 96274 27283.
Frequently asked questions
What is Hatha Yoga?
The branch of yoga that works through posture, breath control, seals and meditation to prepare the body and mind for meditation.
How is it linked to Gorakhnath?
Gorakhnath and his teacher Matsyendranath are named among the masters of the method, and the Goraksha Shataka is attributed to Gorakhnath.
Is it safe for beginners?
Gentle postures and natural breathing generally are, but learn breath practices from a qualified teacher and check with a doctor if you have a medical condition.
More from the notebook
Planning a stay near Girnar?
Ring the office for rooms and dates at Bhavnath Taleti.
+91 96274 27283