Yoga derives from the route Sanskrit word “Yuj” and means to unite or to join. The purpose of yoga has always been to create a sense of harmony between the mind, body and soul, ‘uniting’ them together. There are various types of yoga philosophies; the following are the most well-known types.
Asthanga Yoga – Patanjali, one of the most renowned yoga teachers of old created this system of yoga in order to help the yogi have a perfect level of health, with which to live a spiritual life. The philosophy covers all areas of wellbeing, from the moral to the physical. Its ultimate aim is to lead you through meditation to become one with the Universe. It consists of eight ‘limbs’:
Yama – ethical ‘don’ts’
Niyama – ethical ‘dos’
Asana – yoga postures
Pranayama – breathing techniques
Pratyahara – focusing one’s mind, withdrawing from desires
Dharana – concentration
Dhyana – deep absorption
Samadhi– full meditation
Hatha Yoga – this system encompasses most yoga practices but is focused mainly on the basic ‘asanas’ and breathing exercises.
Kundalini Yoga – sometimes called ‘Laya Yoga’, this is a more intense practice that develops your energy centers and incorporates postures, mudras, chanting and a special diet.
Raja Yoga – is the practice of unifying yourself to the universe or Supreme Being through meditation. Raja means royal and royalty has always been associated with connecting to the divine.
Mantra Yoga – Purely a sound based practice, chanting mantras and sacred words to invoke a sense of peace, enlightenment or empowerment. Mantras are poems and sounds that have deep meaning and can really help your wellbeing. Derived mostly from ancient Indian manuscripts called the Vedas, mantras are an integral part of most yogis’ practice.
From these traditional versions, yoga has flourished in the west as an excellent complementary system of wellness. Take the benefits of ancient wisdom to start on the path to your own perfect wellbeing!
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