The Eight Limbs of Rāja Yoga

Rāja Yoga

In Rāja Yoga Sūtras, sage Patañjali mentioned that Rāja Yoga delas directly with mind. It is also referred as Aṣṭāṅga yoga. It is said that by practicing the eight-limbs of yoga (explained below), one can reach the state of Samādhi.

Kuṇḍalinī:
The nāḍis and cakras are purified and kuṇḍalinī is awakened.

Haṭha Yoga:
Kriyās, Āsanas, Prānāyāma, Mudrā and Bandha to gain control over prāṇa.

Mantra Yoga:

Focuses on sounds (mantras) to gain control over mind.

Yantra Yoga:

To meditate on geometrical images/ forms.

Laya Yoga:

To meditate on inner sounds/ light.

Nāda Yoga:

Use of music.

Yoga Nidrā:

Guided meditation, for attaining state of consciousness between waking and sleeping.