The System of Integral Yoga by Swami Satchidananda
The Goal of Integral Yoga
To realize the spiritual unity behind all the diversity in the entire
creation and to live harmoniously as members of one universal family.
This goal is achieved by maintaining our natural condition of:
• A body of optimum health and strength;
• Senses under total control;
• A mind well disciplined, clear, and calm;
• An intellect as sharp as a razor;
• A will as strong and pliable as steel;
• A heart full of unconditional love and compassion;
• An ego as pure as crystal;
• A life filled with Supreme Peace and Joy.
By practising Integral Yoga we develop an easeful body, a peaceful mind, and a useful life.
The Branches of Integral Yoga? Sri Swami Satchidananda(Founder) described Integral Yoga as: "A flexible combination of specific methods to develop every aspect of the individual: physical, intellectual, and spiritual. It is a scientific system which integrates the various branches of Yoga in order to bring about a complete and harmonious development of the individual."
Hatha Yoga: Focuses on the physical aspects through asanas (postures), pranayama (breath control), mudras (energy seals), kriyas (detoxification), yogic diet, and deep relaxation.
Raja Yoga: Balance and control of the mind through ethical practices, concentration and meditation.
Karma Yoga: The path of action and selfless service. Serving without attachment to the fruits (or results) of the action.
Jnana Yoga: The intellectual approach. Through the knowledge of what really exists, that is, what is not changeable, one who engages in the Path of Wisdom realizes Oneness with the entire Universe.
Bhakti Yoga: The path of devotion, by constant love, thought, and service of the Divine. Bhakti Yoga can be practiced by everyone. All that is needed is faith and constant remembrance of God.
Japa Yoga: Japa means repetition of a mantram - a sound structure of one or more syllables which represents a particular aspect of the Divine Vibration.
Hersha's tenets for peace:
Breathe Deeply; Live Happily; Serve Readily; Love Unconditionally
