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Written By: Editorial Team | Updated : December 18, 2014 3:36 PM IST
Yoga is one workout which has a deep impact not just on a physical level but a deeper spiritual, mental level as well. There are several braches of yoga which has existed for centuries and Raja Yoga is one of them. Manisha Kharbanda, Founder of Brahmyog, explains the nuances of this form of yoga.
What is Raja Yoga?
Raja Yoga is one of the branches of yoga which has a step-by-step approach to yoga where the mind is systematically analysed. The word Raja means King thus the word Raja Yoga means royal yoga. It can also be referred as the supreme or higher yoga. You could also try these 21 variations of yoga.
Raja Yoga basically works to unveil the dormant potential within the human mind. According to the sages and seers who discovered it, there lies a hidden psychic potential in each of us. This potential can be tapped by the knowledge of a particular system. Various techniques are applied to bring the mind under control and unfold higher states of consciousness.
Raja Yoga has two sub paths: Hatha Yoga and Kundalini Yoga where first the prana (universal life-giving force or energy) is mastered and then the dormant kundalini energy is awakened. Then the mind comes under control automatically.
Benefits of Raja Yoga
Eight fold path of Raja Yoga
The great sage Patanjali laid down the eight fold path of yoga in a scientific manner with the help of which one can attain the calmness of mind and moksha. This includes:
Yamas: Restraints like non-violence, truthfulness, chastity and non acceptance of gifts.
Niyamas: Observances like purity, contentment, austerity, study of sacred scriptures, worship and surrender to god.
Asanas: A comfortable steady posture to attain focus of mind like sirsasana, paschimottanasana, dhanurasana, shavasana, halasana.
Pranayama: Control of vital energy with the help of techniques like anuloma viloma, Surya Bhedan, etc.
Pratyahara: Withdrawal of senses.
Dharana: Concentration of mind.
Dhyana: Meditation
Samadhi: Completely conscious state.
It is important to remember that all the eight limbs must be followed consistently in order to achieve the control of mind and body and to achieve a state of extreme consciousness where soul and super soul are one. Also try Ashtanga Yoga - your path to a better body and mind.
There are several institutes across India that offer Raja Yoga classes. Here are a few of them:
Image source: Getty Images
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