If you mention yoga to most people in the West they generally conjure up images of hordes of people in a yoga studio, contorting their bodies into various postures. This practice is generally associated with hatha-yoga or raja-yoga.

The word yoga, means “yoke”, to join or reconnect. In this context, it means to link with the Supreme. There are four main yoga systems that are mentioned in the Vedic classics, particularly in the Bhagavad-gita, when Lord Krsna explains to his great friend Arjuna how these different yogas or paths can bring the soul or atman to spiritual realization.

The four paths are: selfless service or karma-yoga, philosophical study or jnana-yoga, eight steps of ashtanga or raja-yoga and devotional service or bhakti-yoga.

All paths are recommended, but as individuals, we may be drawn to one particular path over another. Ultimately, we should strive to dove-tail all four practices in our day-to-day lives.

All yogis understand that the actions in this world incur reactions, keeping us bound to the material energy, sometimes known as Karmic reactions. Each type of yoga attempts to elevate the individual above this and into the transcendental realm, where they can realize the Supreme.

Gaining this higher perception of reality allows us the clarity of perception to discern, that, which is true bliss and joy. This means understanding what is eternal and what is a temporary manifestation destined for destruction.

Our physical body is composed of material elements, destined for ultimate decay and destruction. Our astral body is of thought and feelings, also from the material creation, and only temporary, but our spirit or atman is eternal.

Ayurveda, Vedic Astrology and Yoga all seek to provide the knowledge and means of healing, physically, emotionally and spiritually.