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Learn a little about this wonderful thing called YOGA.

New: Learn how to integrate yoga philosiohy into your daily life!  Vedantin, a yogi and the director of the School Yoga Institute in California, shares some of his teachings in his "Yoga Living in Theory and Practice ".   

Yoga is vast.

What we learn in yoga class is only a little snippet of the vastness of what yoga is.  And yet, that little snippet is still a valuable and effective way of improving our lives. We encourage you to learn about the many aspects of yoga- not to overwhelm you, but to inspire you.

What is Yoga?

Yoga literally means "union" or "joining". Yoga is a union of the self, the individual, with the greater, pure consciousness. It is a complete 'science of life' that originated in India over 5,000 years ago.

Yoga postures (asanas) stretch and strengthen every part of the body including the muscles and joints. The postures also exercise the internal organs, glands and nerves, keeping all the body's systems healthy. Relaxation releases physical and mental tensions, opening up vast amounts of energy to be redirected to useful aspects of your life. Yogic breathing (pranayama) revitalizes the body and aids in focusing the mind. Meditation brings you inward, exploring your true self, and also increases mental power and concentration.

Four Paths of Yoga

There are 4 paths of yoga, each suited for a different approach to life. These approaches, although unique, should be combined and integrated into one's life to progress on one's spiritual path.

Karma yoga- The yoga of action. Karma yoga is selfless activity. Performing acts solely for the benefits of others is karma yoga. People of practical temperaments are generally drawn to Karma Yoga.

Bhakti Yoga- The yoga of devotion. Prayer, worship and ritual such as chanting and singing are a big part of Bhakti Yoga. People of emotional temperaments are generally drawn to Bhakti Yoga.

Raja Yoga- The yoga of mental control.  Raja Yoga aims to make the mind steady and one-pointed through a systematic and scientific approach. People of scientific temperaments are generally drawn to Raja Yoga. Learn More.

Jnana Yoga- The yoga of knowledge or wisdom.  Using the intellect and will to inquire about the true nature of oneself.  This direct approach is most difficult and requires tremendous strength of will and intellect.  People of intellectual or philosophical temperaments are generally drawn to Jnana Yoga.

Many yoga classes involve a few aspects from all four paths, but are predominately Raja Yoga- the eight limbed yoga.  Specifically, yoga classes generally focus on the third limb of Raja Yoga- asana practice.

Local yoga teachers and others are invited to Submit an article to KeeneonYoge.com