What does Hatha Yoga primarily aim to achieve?

Hatha Yoga primarily aims to achieve balance and harmony in both the body and mind, serving as a foundational practice in yoga that combines physical postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama), and meditation. The essential goal of Hatha Yoga is to prepare the practitioner for deeper meditation and self-awareness, allowing for a more profound experience in subsequent yoga practices, which can lead to spiritual growth.

While aspects such as mental clarity, emotional balance, and even spiritual enlightenment can be byproducts of Hatha Yoga practice, it is important to note that the focus on physical immortality is a misunderstood interpretation. Hatha Yoga emphasizes the health of the body and mind, aiming to promote overall well-being rather than any notion of immortality. Therefore, the primary aim is not on achieving a state of being physically invulnerable but rather cultivating an environment conducive to inner peace and balance.