Key Philosophical Contexts of Hatha Yoga Applications

 

 Key Philosophical Contexts of Hatha Yoga Applications

Indian Philosophy System	Relevance to Hatha Yoga
Samkhya	Offers dualistic metaphysics (Purusha-Prakriti) that underpins Hatha Yoga's goal of liberation through bodily discipline.
Yoga (Patanjali)	Hatha serves as preparatory ground for Raja Yoga; overlaps in ethical precepts and meditative absorption.
Advaita Vedanta	Some Hatha schools reinterpret practice as a way to attain non-dual realization (Jivanmukti).
Shaiva Tantra	Direct lineage to Hatha; emphasizes kundalini awakening, chakra alignment, and mantric rituals.
Ayurveda	Hatha Yoga kriyās used for dosha balance; intersection of somatic health and soteriology.

 Concluding Insight

Hatha Yoga is far more than a physical discipline—it is a deeply philosophical practice interwoven with India's soteriological, metaphysical, and ethical frameworks. It acts as a bridge between body and transcendence, manifesting diverse applications in ethics, therapy, and self-realization.

Chauhan, D. & Bansal, M. (2024). Bridging Traditions and Trends: Indian Knowledge Systems and Yoga. Sirjana Journal.

Singleton, M. (2010). Yoga Body: The Origins of Modern Posture Practice. Oxford University Press.

Bhide, S. R., & Bhargav, H. (2023). Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Yoga Philosophy. Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine.