When most people think of yoga today, they picture twisting postures and deep breathing. But India’s ancient yogic tradition is a far deeper, richer tree—its branches rooted not only in the body, but in the heart, mind, and spirit. The classical paths of yoga—Hatha, Bhakti, Jnana, Karma, and Raja—each offer a distinct route to self-realisation, shaped by unique philosophies, practices, and intentions.

Raja Yoga, or the "royal path," emphasises meditation and mental discipline. Codified in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, it involves ethical living, self-study, and deep contemplation to transcend the ego and connect with the true Self.

Jnana Yoga, the path of knowledge, is considered the most challenging. It calls for rigorous self-inquiry and scriptural study, inviting practitioners to question reality and discern truth through wisdom and reflection.

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Bhakti Yoga, the yoga of devotion, centres on love for the divine. Through chanting, rituals, and heartfelt surrender to a chosen deity, it cultivates emotional connection and spiritual surrender.

Karma Yoga is the path of selfless action. Practitioners dedicate their work to a higher purpose without attachment to results—a discipline famously embodied by figures like Gandhi.

Hatha Yoga, the most familiar form today, uses the body as a vehicle for transformation. Through postures, breathwork, and cleansing techniques, it prepares the physical and energetic systems for spiritual awakening.

While each path is distinct, they are not mutually exclusive. A modern yogi might combine physical asanas (Hatha), devotional chanting (Bhakti), mindful service (Karma), and meditative inquiry (Raja and Jnana). Together, these branches remind us that yoga is more than a workout—it's a way of living, feeling, and being in the world.

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