The Main Branches of Yoga
The Main Branches of Yoga
Last week as I was talking to a friend, she asked me about the different types of yoga are out there. As our conversation evolved into other topics, it made me realize that Yoga is such a broad topic, and knowing the different branches is a good segue into understanding it better. She wanted to know a little more about the topic, which made realize that it would be a good idea to write this post. Below is a classification that can be followed, but take note that this is not a comprehensive list. I am also not getting into a full description of each one of them.
Yoga of Knowledge (Jnana Yoga)
Jnana yoga consists of developing self-knowledge/self-realization. This is achieved by self-enquiry, by meditation, as well as concentration.
Yoga of Devotion (Bhakti Yoga)
Bhakti Yoga is developing the Divine love. The love to God, by surrendering to service. This is achieved by rituals, chanting, the use of mantras of divine names, and also meditation in a devotional manner.
Yoga of Action (Karma Yoga)
Karma Yoga is the yoga of service to others, it can also be practice by performing rituals. Actions such as performing healing work, teaching, or bettering our society via political action would fall under the Yoga of Action.
Yoga Psychophysical techniques (Hatha Yoga)
Hatha Yoga is the yoga practices that are most common in the West. It is the practice of Asana (physical postures), it also includes pranayama, as well as meditation. All of these practices prepare the body and the mind to be ready for higher Yoga practices.
Eightfold Ashtanga Yoga (Integral/Raja Yoga)
Raja Yoga consists of all the eight limbs of Yoga. These are aimed at concentration, meditation and Samadhi. It is a combination of the Yogas of Jnana, Hatha, Bhakti and Karma and using them as an integral practice.
Even though these are the main branches of Yoga, there are other that be included as well, to mention some: Laya Yoga, Tantric Yoga, Mantra Yoga, Vedic Yoga as well as Ayurvedic Yoga.
