The Mind Creative OCT 2013
TYPES OF TRADITIONAL YOGA
Kundalini Yoga: is a technical
science and requires the guidance of
a competent teacher. The objective
here is to “awaken” the kundalini
which is defined in ancient Hindu
scriptures as a serpent-like vital force
that remains dormant in every human
body. It is believed that, if done
improperly, Kundalini Yoga can cause
damage to the nervous system.
Hatha Yoga: The first four limbs
of the eight limbs of yoga can be
classified as Hatha Yoga. This is a
set of exercises, that helps to make
the body a healthy and strong
resource for the student.
Karma Yoga: is the yoga of action
and is based on the philosophy of
the ancient scripture Gita which
emphasizes that we should do our
duties without worrying about the
fruits of our actions. Karma yoga
helps you to unburden the mental
load of karma that everyone tends
to carry.
Gynana Yoga: is the path of
wisdom. This is arguably the most
challenging one since it requires
the practitioner to use intellect in
order to inquire into one’s own
nature. This path demands
intense mental discipline where
the student is taught to
discriminate between the real and
the unreal, between the transient
and the everlasting, between the
finite and the infinite.
Mantra Yoga: The word “Mantra”
has been derived from two words:
“man” (introspection or reflection)
and “tra” (to free or to liberate).
Hence the word “mantra” defines a
method of developing the
consciousness and freeing up surplus
energy. It involves meditation and
the use of certain sounds or chants
called "mantras". Traditionally,
these “mantras” are imparted
secretly to the student by the guru
or teacher.
Raja Yoga: Also known as
Astanga (the eight-fold) Yoga,
defines the “Royal Path”. It
consists of eight steps that are
designed to create an orderly
process of self-transformation
through control of the mind. The
levels start at the physical body
and eventually involve the subtler
levels of the mind by establishing
methods that refine our desires,
emotions, and thoughts. This
style has an universal appeal
since it is the union of all the
paths discussed above.
Bhakti Yoga: is the yoga of
devotion and teaches the path to
surrender, love and devoutness.
It helps you to adjust the surplus
(and sometimes unnecessary)
emotions of suffering, which at
times can hinder the way you
enjoy life.
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