Your body houses divine light. Your body is the temple of God. The light exists in everything, in all places, and at all times. The more you become conscious of the divine light in your body, the greater you feel about yourself and the greater you feel about the world you live in.

-from Courage and Contentment
by Gurumayi Chidvilasananda

Every part of our being is divine -- the body, the mind, the energy that enlivens us. We practice hatha yoga to recognize that a divine light shines within us.

At the same time, we receive many physical benefits from hatha yoga. Our bodies become stronger and more flexible, allowing the muscles to relax. As our body gets more supple, we can sit comfortably and easily for longer periods of meditation.

After working the body in various postures, the hatha yoga classes end with shavasana, the relaxation pose. At this point in the practice, our subtle energy channels are open and the spiritual energy flows freely. The wave-like motion of the breath stills the mind, so that we become conscious of the divine light inside. In this way, hatha yoga prepares us for meditation.

In addition, there are certified Siddha Yoga hatha yoga teachers in many of the Siddha Yoga meditation centers and ashrams around the world. You may want to contact your local center to see if a class is being offered near you.