Hatha Yoga And Creativity

nAre humans hard-wired to explore spirituality? It seems we have an impulse that urges us to seek the divine, a gene that spurs us to answer questions about who we are, where we came from, and where we are going. At the same time, we long to create, to leave our mark on this world we find ourselves in. And we want to feel good while we’re creating.nnThe practice of Hatha yoga (the yoga of the body) can lead us on a path toward satisfying these basic needs of our existence. During a typical yoga practice, we move with awareness through the various postures (asanas), focusing the mind on the breath, and systematically releasing muscular tension. We reach a state of heightened mental awareness and deep relaxation. Relaxation leads to peace, and even bliss, a feeling that connects us to our divine nature.nnDuring these moments of well-being, creativity blossoms. Ideas bubble to the surface from our unconscious mind, the pen moves with ease across the page, drawings emerge, a dance comes into being.nnA consistent Hatha yoga practice provides an essential balm to our busy lives. There are few other activities that simultaneously tone the body, quiet the nerves, connect us to the divine, and nourish our creativity.