Yoga manifests itself as four major paths, namely Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Rāja Yoga and Jñāna Yoga
These four paths are like the branches of a tree or tributaries of a river. They all have the same source and resting place. In essence, they are all the same. The only thing that differentiates them is that there is a certain aspect of the mind involved in a particular path or practice. In Karma Yoga the active aspect of the mind is involved in Bhakti Yoga, the emotional aspect in Rāja Yoga, the mystical aspect in Jñāna Yoga, the intellectual aspect
In this course, we will cover Karma Yog, Bhakti Yog & Raja Yog
KARMA YOGA - Service
It is the yoga of action, the path of selfless service.
The practice of Karma Yoga involves performing an action without any expectation of any reward in return, thus renouncing the fruits of the action. A Karma yogi sublimates the ego, purifies the heart, and realizes oneness with all beings by acting selflessly. Karma Yoga can be practiced anywhere, anytime where there is a desire to serve. It depends on the attitude, not the action
BHAKTI YOGA - Devotion
It is the devotional approach of yoga, the one of pure love
This path involves surrendering oneself to God in order to realize the highest Truth. Aspirants channel their emotions into devotion, developing humility, self-surrender, and the feeling of being an instrument in the hands of the Divine
Bhakti Yoga can be practiced in many ways - praying, chanting, japa (repeating a mantra or name of the Divine), and by participating in ceremonies and rituals
RAJA YOGA - Mind Control
This is the scientific, step-by-step approach of yoga, the one of mind control
In the practice of Rāja Yoga, the mind is systematically analyzed and various techniques are applied to bring it under control. This process turns the physical and mental energy into spiritual energy
The practice of Rāja Yoga includes Hatha Yoga (yoga postures, cleansing techniques, and breathing exercises) meditation, and other methods that help one to control body, mind, and senses
Rāja Yoga also includes Ashtanga Yoga (eight limbs), described by Patanjali Maharishi which leads to absolute mind control