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The
Paths of Yoga
The oldest archaeological evidence of
yoga’s existence is in the form of stone
figures, depicting yogic postures, that were excavated from the Indus
valley and date back about 5000 years.
Yoga
literally means
"union", "joining" or "to yoke". This
ancient system involves disciplines that unite the body, mind and spirit. The
broad tradition of yoga is divided into four main paths, each having its
unique function and approach. Though the characteristics vary, the
different paths of yoga share similarities and ultimately lead to the
same goal. The very heart and purpose of yoga is the union of the individual self with
the supreme Self; the returning of one to their inherent nature.
Four Main Paths of Yoga
Raja Yoga –
Royal Path of Experience
A
practical method using physical, mental and philosophical steps as
described in the "Eight Limbs". Meditation and
contemplation are of primary focus on this pathway. The practice of
Hatha Yoga is found in this path of direct experience.
Karma Yoga –
Path of Action or Service
Serving unconditionally, without attachment to the outcome and in a
selfless manner. Taking responsibility for ones actions and acting with
integrity. Living consciously and making right choices that contribute to
the freedom of all beings.
Bhakti Yoga – Path of Devotion
A
path of the heart and emotions that cultivates reverence for the Divine in
all of creation. Surrendering to the sweet desire to connect with the
Beloved and living with kindness in thought, word and deed. Acts of a
devotional nature, such as prayer, chanting and offerings are part of this
path committed to love, acceptance and faith.
Jnana Yoga –
Path of Wisdom and Knowledge
The
yoga of the mind and intellect is considered to be the most direct and yet
difficult path, as it requires examination of the self as a dispassionate
observer. Higher knowledge is attained through serious study of
yogic texts, as well as, the analysis of life, self-inquiry and the ideal
of non-dualism.
The
Eight Limbs of Raja Yoga
Also
known as Ashtanga Yoga (ashta means "eight" and anga
means "limb"), this eight-limbed system, compiled
by the Indian sage Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras, is a series of steps or disciplines, which purify the body and
mind, and leads one to experience vibrant health, self-realization and
incredible bliss.
-
Yama –
Restraint – Five Rules of
Conduct
Ahimsa:
Non-Harming, Non-Violence, Non-Injury
Satya:
Truthfulness in thought, word and deed
Asteya:
Non-Stealing
Brahmacharya:
Self-Control, Moderation
Aparigraha:
Non-Possessiveness
-
Niyama –
Observance – Five Positive
Qualities
Saucha:
Purity, Cleanliness
Santosha:
Contentment, Humble
Tapas:
Self-Discipline, Practice, Austerity
Svadhyaya:
Self and Spiritual Study
Iswarapranidhana:
Self-Surrender, Constant Awareness of the Divine
-
Asana
– Steady Posture / Bench or Seat
-
Pranayama – Breath
Control or Regulation / Life Force Extension
-
Pratyahara –
Sense Withdrawal
-
Dharana –
Concentration / Mental Focus
-
Dhyana –
Meditation / Contemplation
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Samadhi
- Enlightenment / Self-Realization / Pure Bliss
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