Page 13 - GuestGuide-031616_08gw

SIVANANDA YOGA 4 PATHS OF YOGA

Unity in Diversity There are four main paths of yoga, each suited to a different temperament or
approach to life. Sivananda Yoga teaches this synthesis, drawing from the four
Sivananda Yoga is rooted in the ancient yoga and Vedanta traditions of India. paths for the harmonious development of the whole person on their spiritual
It brings the practitioner to the recognition of the oneness of existence, journey. During your stay in the ashram, by following the daily schedule you
the unity underlying the diversity of creation. Through the yogic practices, practice the 4 paths of yoga.
including asanas, pranayama, and meditation, one attains inner peace and
harmony with all of life. Karma Yoga — The Yoga of Action
This is the path of selfless service. By performing duties without attachment
5 Keys to a Healthy Yogic Lifestyle (The 5 Points of Yoga) to the fruits of the actions, the Karma Yogi becomes a conscious instrument of
The practices of yoga lead to inner peace. A yogic lifestyle ensures healthy Divine will. A Karma Yoga practitioner begins to think of service to humanity
functioning of all of the body’s systems, including the physical, mental, and and the well-being of others.
spiritual faculties. Swami Vishnudevananda taught these five key elements for
establishing oneself on the yogic path. They can be easily incorporated into Bhakti Yoga — The Path of Devotion
a modern, daily life and when applied little by little every day bring all of the This is the path of love and devotion to God, to an incarnation of the Divine or
benefits of yoga. to the spiritual teacher. Bhakti Yoga practices include chanting and devotional
practice, such as pujas.
Asana — Proper Exercise Raja Yoga — The Science of Physical and Mental Control
Yoga postures to stretch all parts of the body, tone the nervous system, This the path of concentration and meditation. Based on ethical progress
improve circulation, release tension, and increase flexibility. and control of the mind, it leads to meditative state and ultimately, the
superconscious state. Hatha Yoga, which includes postures (asanas), breath
Pranayama — Breathing Practices control (pranayama), relaxation, and cleansing practices to purify and
Yogic breathing techniques to rejuvenate the body and the mind.
strengthen the body and mind, is included in Raja Yoga.
Conscious Relaxation Jnana Yoga — The Yoga of Knowledge or Wisdom
Yogic methods to retrain the mind and muscles to deeply and completely Through spiritual study, self-inquiry, and heightened awareness, the Jnana Yogi
relax, an essential component of yogic living.
ceases to identify with the body and mind and realizes oneness.
Vegetarian Diet
Simple, natural, and wholesome foods to promote easy digestion and good
health, as well as support meditation.
Positive Thinking and Meditation
Approaches to creating a clear, balanced mind that can access wisdom and
peace.

10 | ashram welcome guide sivanandabahamas.org | 11