YogaTrusted Source is an ancient practice that may
have originated in India. It involves movement, meditation, and
breathing techniques to promote mental and physical well-being. There
are several types of yoga and many disciplines within the practice. The
overall philosophy of yoga is about connecting the mind, body, and
spirit. There are six branches of yoga. Each branch represents a
different focus and set of characteristics.
Six branches are:
Hatha yoga:
this is the physical and mental branch that aims to prime the body and
mind.
Raja yoga:
this branch involves meditation and strict adherence to a series of
disciplinary steps known as the eight limbs of yoga.
Karma yoga:
this is a path of service that aims to create a future free from
negativity and selfishness.
Bhakti yoga:
this aims to establish the path of devotion, a positive way to channel
emotions and cultivate acceptance and tolerance.
Jnana yoga:
this branch of yoga is about wisdom, the path of the scholar, and
developing the intellect through study.
Tantra yoga:
this is the pathway of ritual, ceremony, or consummation of a
relationship.