Hatha Yoga emphasizes the quiet body-awareness and relaxation that contribute to health; it is also becomes a means of growing in the centeredness that contributes to holy living, as we unite our prayer with our bodies.

Prayer is more than the words we say. It is also the thoughts we bring before God. It is the attentive silence in which we wait upon God. It is life, lived with a sense of each moment as response to God. It is all the ways we respond to God by seeking to grow in relationship with God. The exercises and relaxation of yoga may help you become centered, so that you can attend to the words you speak, either aloud or in your heart. Yoga may help you to quiet the body and mind so that you can enter into reflective prayer. Attention to the breath can provide a mental focus so that you can become still.

Note: If you have a physical problem or illness, you can imagine God’s healing power entering the part of your body that needs healing. As you breathe in, visualize the breath as a ray of healing light from God. Breathe in and focus on God’s healing energy, letting the light absorb the illness or pain. Believe God can heal you.