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The techniques of Yoga are established on three main constitutions: exercise, breathing, and meditation. The exercises in Yoga which are also known as yogasanas are performed with purpose and intent to put pressure on the internal organs of the body, thereby augmenting the body's output and total health. It is believed in yoga that since respiration is the source of life, by altering and boosting the breathing capacity of the individual health can be restored. Breathing techniques in Yoga are known as Pranayama. Yoga alters breathing to build up the health and functionality of both the mind and the body. Through yogasanas and Pranayama, the body and mind are now prepared for meditation. Yoga believes that a quiet mind brings about a feeling of contentment and healing from mundane stress. Steady practice of all three branches of Yoga develops an enlightened and lucid mind in addition to a healthy and fit body.
There are numerous schools of Yoga. Some of these include
- Hatha Yoga - in which the bodily motions and postures, in addition to breathing techniques are enhanced. Most people relate with the Hatha Yoga exercise.
- Raja Yoga - Raja yoga is also known as the royal road, because of its emphasis on exercise, systematic breathing training alongwith meditation and deep study of yoga, bringing forth an all-encompassing individual.
- Jnana Yoga - This form of Yoga is thought to be the hardest form of yoga as it concentrates on acquiring wisdom through much study and practice.
- Bhakti Yoga - Bhakti yoga focuses on religious and spiritual enlightenment through the practice of the greatest possible degree or extent of devotion towards one's concept of God.
- Karma Yoga - Karma Yoga is practiced with the intention that all types and forms of movement, and activity of any kind which is done, is with focus concentrated on a personal concept of God.
Contrary to popular myth, Yoga is not a religion nor does it ascribe to any particular God. Yoga does not believe in creed or determinate set of beliefs. According to yogic philosophy all energy stems from the individual and modifying this energy leads to good health both in mind and body. Thus, the state of relying on or being controlled by an external figure, either through a person or god-like figure, or religious institution does not arise. Yoga does not come between or gets involved in any religion. Most secular yoga students and practitioners practice Yoga in an intensive manner for many years without comprising or being in conflict with their respective religious traditions.
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