The Yoga Ladder: Classification of Yoga Systems
Every individual identifies himself with the body, mind, energy, or emotion. These are the only four aspects through which one attains the state of Yoga. There are four main paths of Yoga according to body, mind, energy & emotion
Karma Yoga – Path of Action (Body)
Karma Yoga is the Path of Action which talks about actions and reactions. Activity for one’s personal sense gratification causes bondage. Whereas, activity performed as a sacrifice, as a service, and as a duty without attachment or aversion can set one free and link one with the Absolute. Karma Yoga develops detachment from the fruits of actions. In this way, there is no expectation of personal gain or recognition.
Gyaan Yoga – Path of Knowledge (Mind)
Gyaan Yoga refers to the philosophical analysis of the material elements through Sankhya, to become free from attachment to material existence. This Path of Knowledge discusses the transcendental knowledge about our form, birth, and activities of the Supreme Being. In this way, one is able to distinguish himself from the body and mind.
Dhyana Yoga – Path of Meditation (Energy)
The purpose of this Yoga is to connect one’s consciousness to the Supreme Consciousness by controlling one’s body, mind, and senses. There are 8 progressive stages of self-control: namely, Yama (Behavioral norms), Niyama (Internal discipline), Asana (postures), Pranayama (breath control), Pratyahara (withdrawal of senses), Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation), and Samadhi (trance).
Bhakti Yoga – Path of Devotion (Emotion)
Bhakti Yoga is the Path of Devotion or the Path of Love. It discusses how to link with the Supreme through loving relationships and devotional service. It is a direct process of establishing a relationship of loving service to the Supreme Lord, Krishna.
Which one of these Yoga systems is the highest and most beneficial? According to Bhagavad Gita itself, Bhakti Yoga is the topmost of all. Bhakti means “love” or “loving service” unto the Supreme. Bhakti Yoga is also the perfection of Karma Yoga. Gyaan means “knowledge,” Karma means “action,” and Bhakti means “action in knowledge.” Each Yoga system is like a step in the ladder to self-realization, and the topmost step is Bhakti. In Bhagavad Gita, Krishna himself declares the supremacy of Bhakti Yoga (Verse 6.47): “And of all yogis, the one with great faith who always abides in Me, thinks of Me within himself, and renders transcendental loving service to Me — he is the most intimately united with Me in yoga and is the highest of all. That is My opinion.
