What we know as the types of yoga are actually the nine branches of the yoga tree . All these types of yoga have the same common goal : the union of the body and the mind. Although it is true that depending on the type of yoga you practice you can strengthen some areas or other of your body, or gain more flexibility or musculature. Whatever type of yoga you decide to do , you will work on meditation and the union between the individual conscience and the universal consciousness.
The yoga that works best for you depends on your personality and your personal goals. We explain what each of these nine branches of the yoga tree consists of for you to know them, but you must bear in mind that to practice yoga you can mix and combine the different yoga postures as you see fit.
Bhakti Yoga
It is a path of adoration and devotion to God and / or a Guru. It is usually practiced in singing sessions and cultivates the relationship with the divine. Bhatki Yoga is ideal for people of emotional and sensitive nature.
Hatha Yoga
This type of yoga is philosophically linked to Tantra Yoga. Hatha Yoga and suno of the most popular in the West. This type of yoga uses the body as a tool to reach the exploration of oneself. Hatha Yoga is known because it is practiced through the popular Asanas (yoga postures), and aims to purify body and mind. Ideal for those who seek to reconcile good physical condition and health.
Japa Yoga | Yoga with mantras
Mantra is a word, syllable or phrase that is repeated mentally, sung or spoken loudly. The purpose of the mantras is to center the mind and enter into harmony with the body. Japa Yoga is ideal for people sensitive to sound vibrations , who seek to withdraw from a noisy existence.
Jnana Yoga
Jnana Yoga is also known as the yoga of true knowledge . Those who practice this type of yoga seek wisdom through themselves, through debate and reason. Jnana Yoga is ideal for people with rational and analytical minds , who enjoy philosophy.
Karma Yoga
It is a selfless path that understands yoga as an action offered to God, without expecting rewards. Karma Yoga is perfect for people who wish to serve humanity.
Tantra Yoga
It is a mistake to relate Tantra yoga to a form of spiritualized sex, because in reality sex is only a tiny part of the yogi atántrico. He works in ritual, meditation and mysticism. Hatha yoga is one of its branches.
Laya Yoga | Kundalini Yoga
Laya Yoga is based on practices that act on the chakras, or energy centers, and aims to master the function of each of them. This type of yoga is also known as Kundalini Yoga. This yoga is advisable for those who practice with an experienced teacher , since it can be truly powerful.
Raja Yoga
Raja Yoga is known as ” the king’s path ” and focuses on the development of the mind. It is considered by some to be the most classic type of yoga. The goal of Raja Yoga is to improve concentration and achieve union.
Kriya Yoga
Kriya Yoga is known as the Yoga of union with the Infinite through some action. The Kriya Yoga is an advanced technique for spiritual evolution, the scientific art of union with the Self.
Sahaja Yoga
Sahaja Yoga is a practice whose goal is to achieve full awareness of our true Self. It is known as the Yoga of union with the omnipresent power of Divine love.