...liberation).

* Kundalini Yoga: Emphasizes the activation of Kundalini shakti for enlightenment.

* Raja Yoga: Considered the Scientific approach, this branch emphasizes Sage Pantanjali's 8 step path to Self-Realization.

In this article I will expand on Raja Yoga as that is perhaps the most prevalent and popular Yoga system in use today.

As indicated above Raja Yoga employs Sage Pantanjali's 8 step path to achieve Union with the Supreme. This 8 step system (ashtanga) compromises of the following parts. Yamas, Niyamas, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana, and finally Samadhi. This 8 step path is designed to bring about physical, emotion and mental harmony; and in the advanced practices of Dharana, Dhyana and Samadhi lead to the cessation of thoughts allowing the mind to realize that Reality is indeed Singular, Whole and indivisible.

Here is a description of the 8 limbs of Raja Yoga:

1. Yamas: Yamas are abstensions. They are truth, nonviolence, control of sexual energy, nonstealing and noncovetousness.

2. Niyams: Niyams are observances. They are austerities, purity, contentment, study and egolessness.

3. Asanas: Steady postures and poses.

4. Pranayama: Breathing exercises and control of the vital energy.

5. Pratyahara: Withdrawal of the Senses.

6. Dharana: Concentration of the mind.more

A Yoga Book club

... a yoga book club. You can choose to become "the yoga group" and participate in some variation of a yoga class, even if you teach it to each other, or you can be a yoga book group where most of the focus is on reading and most of the practicing the positions takes place on your own time.

This is a great idea for those people interested in taking up yoga but feeling a little unsure o...more

Yoga Schools What Is Right For You?

...chools move along, there will often be lectures or talks added during lessons so that you may gain a better overview of not just the physical side of yoga but also the mental and spiritual sides.

Certification

If you wish to pursue an actual degree in Yoga from a yoga school, they can take anywhere form 3-5 months. In them, once you have built a proper base, you will be introduced to the idea of asanas as well as the more advanced methods for self cleansing and mental focus. You will likely, in addition to yoga session, be involved with research and lecture too as gaining a yoga degree is a complete merger of mind, body, and spirit. This merger will allow you to practice yoga at the highest level a...more

Yoga- What Are The Different Types Of Yoga?

...There are many people who are doing yoga these days. Yoga can offer different things to different people. You can use it to enhance your mind and spirituality. You can also use it to help you get into shape and be toned and supple. There are many types of yoga that you can do. Depending on what it is you are trying to accomplish will determine what type of yoga is better for you.

Some of the types of yoga are more physical than others. They there are some that are more spiritual. Yoga is used for things such as a stress related illness, fatigue, migraines, depression, PMS, arthritis, back pain, aging, and mobility problems. These are just a few of the problem...more

Yoga Positions Andnot Store