Branches of Yoga

What is Integral Yoga? by Sri Swami Satchidananda

“The goal of Integral Yoga, and the birthright of every individual, is to realize the spiritual unity behind all the diversities in the entire creation and to live harmoniously as members of one universal family. This goal is achieved by maintaining our natural condition of a body of optimum health and strength, senses under total control, a mind well-disciplined, clear and calm, an intellect as sharp as a razor, a will as strong and pliable as steel, a heart full of unconditional love and compassion, an ego as pure as a crystal, and a life filled with Supreme Peace and Joy.”
~HH Sri Swami Satchidananda

The description for each of the branches of Yoga is as follows:

Hatha Yoga Focuses on the physical aspects through asanas (postures), pranayama (breath control), mudras, kriyas (cleansing practices), yogic diet, and deep relaxation.

Raja Yoga Balance and control of the mind through ethical practices, concentration and meditation.

Bhakti Yoga The path of devotion, by constant love, thought, and service of the Divine. Bhakti Yoga can be practiced by everyone. All that is needed is faith and constant remembrance of God.

Karma Yoga The path of action and selfless service. Serving without attachment to the fruits (or results) of the action.

Jnana Yoga The intellectual approach. Through the knowledge of what really exists, that is, what is not changeable, one who engages in the Path of Wisdom realizes Oneness with the entire Universe.

Japa Yoga Japa means repetition of a mantram – a sound structure of one or more syllables which represents a particular aspect of the Divine Vibration.