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Breathing Exercise (Pranayama) - Kapalabhati (Cleaning Breath)


Kapalabhati is a Breathing Technique used specifically for cleansing. If we have a lot of mucus in the air passages or feel tension and blockages in the chest it is often helpful to breathe quickly. In this practice, we deliberately breathe faster and at the same time use only Abdominal Breathing, that is, diaphragmatic, not Chest Breathing. In Kapalabhati, the Breath is short, rapid, and strong. We use the lungs as a pump, creating so much pressure as they expel the air that all the waste is removed from the air passages, from the lungs up through the nostrils. Kapala means "skull," and bhati means "that which brings lightness." Kapalabhati is a good thing to do when we feel heavy or foggy in the head. If we have problems with the sinuses or feel numb around the eyes, Kapalabhati can help to clear this area as well.

The Kapalabhati and Bhastrika Breathing Techniques share the same general principle, namely that we clear the nasal passages with the force of the breath. As mentioned under Bhastrika, we must be very careful with these techniques because there is a danger of creating tension in the breath. We may also become dizzy when we breathe rapidly; for this reason we always conclude the practice of Kapalabhati with some slow breaths. It is important not to breathe rapidly too many times, but after a few rapid breaths take several slow ones in which we emphasize the long Exhalation.

One Round of Kapalabhati (Cleaning Breath)

Take two normal breaths. Inhale. Now exhale, pulling in your abdomen. Repeat twenty times, keeping a steady rhythm and emphasizing the exhalation each time. Then inhale, exhale completely, inhale fully and hold your breath for as long as you comfortably can. Slowly exhale.

This article is from www.holistic-online.com.

A knowledge of the roots

Sahaja Yoga is a method of meditation which brings a breakthrough in the evolution of human awareness. It was created by Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi in 1970 and has since spread all around the world. In Shri Mataji's own words: "Global unity of mankind can be achieved through this awakening that can occur within each human being, so that transformation takes place within us. By this process a person becomes moral, united, integrated and balanced. One actually gets the experience of the feeling of the all-pervading divine power as cool breeze. "Know thyself" is the main theme of all the scriptures - it becomes evident and one reaches the absolute understanding of oneself. Thus one becomes peaceful and joyous in life. One becomes collective as a drop falling into the ocean of compassion. This method works for the multitudes and not individually. Of course one cannot pay for the experience of Divine Love. Moreover, it is the last breakthrough of our evolution. This is the actualization of such transformation, which is taking place now, worldwide, and has been proved and experienced by hundreds of thousands in over 85 countries."

The next step in our collective evolution

This inner awakening is called by many names: Self Realization, Second Birth, Enlightenment, Liberation, Moksha, Satori and it is the goal of all religions and spiritual traditions of the world. This knowledge is ancient, but for a long time it was available only to a few souls, being kept secret and transmitted from guru to disciple, since Self Realization was extremely difficult to achieve. In these modern times, through Sahaja ("spontaneous") Yoga ("union with one's Self"), this experience has become effortless and available to everyone, for the first time in the history of human spirituality. The advent of Sahaja Yoga was prophesized a long time ago in many of the world's spiritual traditions and religions. At the same time, in these modern times many seekers of Truth have been deluded into following various false, self-proclaimed "gurus" who are either money or power oriented, but not Spirit oriented. Through the practice of Sahaja Yoga, our awareness gains a new dimension where absolute truth can be felt tangibly - on our central nervous system. As a result of this happening, our spiritual ascent takes place effortlessly and physical, mental and emotional balance are achieved as a byproduct of this growth of our awareness. We then realize that we are not this body, mind, ego, conditionings, emotions or intellect, but something of an eternal nature which is always residing in our heart in a pure, undisturbed state - the Self or Spirit. The Spirit is the source of true knowledge, peace and joy. Self Realization is the actualization of this connection with our Spirit, which as Shri Mataji advocates, is the birthright of every human being.

This refers to the Breathing Exercise in which you inhale through the right nostril and exhale through the left, holding the inhaled breath as long as possible before exhaling. Beginners should expect to use their fingers in order to close either nostril, though you may eventually develop an ability to do this without using the fingers. You may close your nostrils in any way you choose to; but the traditional technique which has been the standard practice is as follows:

Instructions

With this breathing exercise you inhale slowly through the right nostril while closing the left nostril Now close both nostrils and apply Jalandhara Bandha. Lift the chin, keep the right nostril closed and exhale through the left nostril. Try to gradually increase your period of breath retention.

1. Press the index and middle finger of the right hand against the palm of that hand
2. Use the thumb to close the right nostril and the ring and little fingers to close the left nostril.
3. If your are left handed, you may reverse this procedure.
4. When both nostrils are open, the fingers rest on the bridge of the nose.


Purpose

Surya means sun. The path of the sun is the right nostril. When you inhale solely through the right nostril you generate heat energy which is sent out through your body. Impurites are dispelled. The movement of Prana is unblocked. You are vibrating at a higher frequency which helps your immune system in general. This kinetic energy may be used to release psychic forces.

- Build up to ten repetitions of Surya Bheda in the beginning, eventually you may do forty repetitions.

Ocean Breath Ujjayi Pranayama also known as Hissing Breath, Victorious Breath

Benefits: Concentrates and directs the breath, giving asana practice extra power and focus.

This pranayama is most often used in association with the practice of yoga poses, especially in the vinyasa style. Vinyasa yoga is breath-synchronized movement, and the breath used is Ujjayi breath. Learn this breath while seated in a comfortable cross-legged position. Once you feel confident, begin to use it during asana practice.

1. Inhale and exhale deeply through the mouth.

2. On the exhales, begin to tone the back of the throat, slightly constricting the passage of air. Imagine that you are fogging up a pair of glasses.

3. Once you are comfortable with the exhale, begin to apply the same toning of the throat to the inhales. This is where the name of the breath comes from: it sounds like the ocean. It also sounds like Darth Vadar.

4. When you are able to control the throat on both the inhale and the exhale, close the mouth and begin breathing through the nose. Continue applying the same toning to the throat that you did when the mouth was open. The breath will still make a loud noise coming in and out of the nose. This is Ujjayi breath.

5. Now start to use this breath during your practice. If the teacher tells you to move on an inhale, make it an Ujjayi inhale. If you need a little something extra while holding a pose, remember this breath.

Another way to think about Ujjayi Breath is to visualize your throat as a garden hose, with the breath passing through like a trickle of water. If you put your thumb partially over the opening of the hose, you increase the power of the water that is coming through. This is the same thing you are doing with your throat during Ujjayi breathing. The air that comes in through your constricted throat is a powerful, directed breath that you can send into the parts of your body that need it during yoga.

Purpose : Ujjayi strengthens the nervous and digestive systems. A powerful cure for phlegm.

Instructions
Both Ujjayi and Surya Bheda are body heating pranayamas and so exhalation is confined to the cooling left nostril. Inhale fully through both nostrils while slightly closing the glottis. Glottis is the part of the larnyx made up of the vocal cords and the slit like opening between them. This should create a faint sobbing sound, as the air is drawn past the back of the nose. Retain the breath, applying both Bandhas Jalandhara and Moola. After the breath has been exhaled apply Uddiyaa Bandha.

- Start with three rounds build up to twenty rounds.

SITHALI

Purpose: Clears the mind and promotes good memory

Instructions

In this breathing exercise like Sitkari the inhalation is through the mouth. In Sithali you must stick your tongue out a little way and curl the sides up, making a straw like opening to sip the air through as you inhale. Close your mouth while you retain the breath, then exhale slowly through the nose.

- Repeat five to ten times

This is a video made in 1938 showing the Great yoga teacher demonstrating asana and pranyama. He was the teacher of BKS Iyengar and Sri K. Pattahbi Jois, founder the Astanga style of yoga.

Cass Naumann gives an introduction to yoga. She is a singer, songwriter, model and actress. Cass has years of experience as a fitness instructor teaching yoga, kick boxing, pilates. In this video Cass talks about the benefits of yoga and yoga medication.

You can visit Cass' website at http://www.lovecass.com/

Surya Namaskar, the Sun Salutation, is a series of 12 postures performed in a single, graceful flow. Each movement is coordinated with the breath. Inhale as you extend or stretch, and exhale as you fold or contract. The Sun Salutation builds strength and increases flexibility. Different styles of yoga perform the Sun Saluation with their own variations.

Purpose

Inproves your disposition, relieves hunger and thirst. It also cools the body down. Highly recommended during a fast or to help endure very hot weather.

Instructions

Sitkari and Sithali are both preformed with the inhalation occuring through the mouth instead of the nose. In Sitkari you press the tip of the tougue against the upper palate as you slowly inhale through the mouth. This should create a hissing sound. After retaining the breath for as long as you are able, slowly exhale through both nostrils.

Repeat five to ten times.

Purpose

The extented exhalation in this breathing exercise is very good for pregnant women in preparation for labor. This exercise produces a sweet clear voice and is highly recommended for singers. This is also excellent for reducing tension.


The Bee is very useful preparation for meditation, and is a simple, straightforward tool that can be used to relax the autonomic nervous system. For teachers and health professionals, this is a gentle, extremely useful practice that can easily be taught to virtually anybody.

● Sit up erect in a chair, such that your abdomen and chest are "open" (rather than slouching). Allow your eyes to close. Relax your body.


● Close your lips throughout the practice, but leave your mouth cavity open in the back, in the area of the throat.


● Then, simply make a sound like a buzzing bee, as you exhale through the nostrils, pushing in at the upper abdomen, while allowing the chest to remain relatively still.


● Be aware of the feel of the vibration in the throat, the mouth, the cheeks, and the lips. You will hear the sound from within.


● After the buzzing exhalation, then silently inhale through the nostrils, leaving the lips closed, and allowing the lower ribs to flare out slightly as the diaphragm muscle contracts. Again, be aware of the feel and listen to the sound.


Do the practice aloud for about two minutes.


Then do the practice silently, only in your mind for about two minutes, making no external sound, and not allowing the vocal cords to vibrate. Just imagine internally that you are hearing the sound. (To continue the practice silently, for an even longer period of time can lead to a very pleasant meditation)


As an alternative to measuring an amount of time, you may want to internally count a certain number of breaths (such as 15-20) to do aloud, rather than watching a clock.
Then, internally count the same number of breaths, but doing it silently, making no audible sound nor moving your throat or vocal cords.


You will notice that this practice of "the bee" easily brings a calmness to the body, the breath, and the mind:

● Body is easily relaxed.
● Breath is automatically smooth, slow, and with no jerks or pauses.
● Mind is free from chatter.
● While you do the practice, allow your mind to be wide awake, clear, and gently focused.



This is a practice of being alert and calm, not of going to sleep or entering into a trance.
You can easily have the benefits of this practice at any time, in any public place. All you have to do is leave your eyes open and make no audible sound as you sit quietly. Internally, you are gently practicing "the bee."


Take the peacefulness, calmness and clarity with you into your daily life after completing the practice.

Purpose
The left nostril is called the Ida; the right nosrtril is called Pingala. When you are healthy you will breathe predominantly through the left nostril for about one hour and fifty minutes, then through the right nostril for the same amount of time. In most of us this natural rhythm is disturbed and needs balancing. Anuloma Viloma restores the natural balance in your breathing.

Instructions
With Alternate Nostril breathing you inhale through one nostril, retain the breath and then you exhale through the other nostril in a ratio of 2:8:4. Count to two when inhaling, hold for the count of eight then exhale to the count of four.

One Round of Anuloma Viloma:
1) Breathe in through the left nostril closing the right.
2) Hold breath,closing both nostrils.
3) Breathe out through the right nostril keeping the left nostril closed.
4) Breath in through the right nostril keeping the left nostril closed.
5) Hold the breath, closing both nostrils.
6) Breath out through the left nostril keeping the right closed.

“Start with three rounds build up to twenty rounds”.

The lungs are like bellows which stoke the fires of life within you. The more rich the supply of oxygen, the more vigorous and beautiful is the fire. By breathing deeply you are delivering more oxygen into your system thereby giving your body the vital fuel it needs to nourish all your organs and keep your body strong and healthy.

Alternate Nostril Breathing
Brahmari
Sitkari
Sithali
Ujjayi
Surya Bheda
Bhastrika
Jalandhara Bandha
Uddiyana Bandha
Moola Bandha

The phenomenon of breathing constitutes an entire branch of Yoga called Pranayama. Pranayama was developed to study patterns of breathing and their effects on the mind and the body. Pranayama is ultimately about breath control. Ancient Yogis discovered that with breath control you can increase Pranic Energy or life force and control states of consciousness. Pranayama asserts that by bringing in and holding pranic energy through the breath one can control all the forces of the universe, the electric, bio-electric, magnetic and the atomic.

There are three stages to the breathing process, Inhalation which is called (puraka), fills the lungs with air and stimulates the whole body. Retention, is called (kumbhaka) during retention the bodies temperature is raised and the oxygen is absorbed. Exhalation, is called (rechak) here the diaphragm is returned to its original position. The intercostal muscles are contracted and the toxic air is released into the atmosphere. With Pranayama practices, vital energy is distributed throughout the body, ensuring the proper functioning of all the organs and greater levels of physical energy. The magic ratio maintained between the inhalation, retention and exhalation, is 1 4 2 .

You should practice belly breathing which is explained in the Basic Breathing section of this site for the first month. Then you can start your advanced breathing practices with alternate nostril breathing, practice it at least twenty rounds a day or until you can do it automatically. Once you can perform alternate nostril breathing without discomfort you can try (Brahmari) then (Sitkari) then (Sithali), only after these techniques has been well practiced should you move onto one of the more advanced breathing techniques, which are called (Ujjayi) (Surya Bheda) and (Bhastrika).

There are three Bandhas, Bandha or "Locks" are postures which are designed to conserve or hold the vast reserves of energy generated by the advanced breathing exercises. With the assistance of Bandhas you will be better able to convert pranic energy into psychic energy with which you can heal the body and mind and even enjoy out of body experiences. You should start by practicing each one without applying them to the breathing exercises at first. (Jalandhara) and (Moola Bandha) are always used simultaneously during retention of the breath; this is to unite the two basic energies of (Prana) and (Apana), which are the basic energies of life itself. Uddiyana Bandha) is used after exhalation to push the the Pranapana up into the Shushumna Nadi). This will ultimately raise the Kundalini and bring in psychological alterations.

A WORD OF CAUTION:
Advanced Breathing Exercises are very powerful and sometimes intense psychic experiences will take place. Some people may begin to sense their spiritual selves and may actual begin to fear this experience. Controlled breathing can connect you with your inner being and for some this is a totally alien experience and will provoke fear. When you practice breath control you may notice your powers of perception will improve and sometimes you may develop telepathic perception. Be sure you have prepared yourself for this by clearing your body of chemical toxins with good wholesome vegetarian food. Think positive thoughts as your thoughts will also manifest reality more quickly. Practice sincerely and regularly and you will be astonished at how well you will begin to feel.

A bit about the Breathing Animations, they are meant to give you at a glance comprehension of the exercises, they are not meant to be followed in real time. Please read the instructions and follow them carefully, don't rush your progress. Enjoy the process.

YOGIC BREATHING REVITALIZES THE BODY, CALMS THE EMOTIONS AND CLEARS THE MIND.

Naked yoga is the practice of yoga without clothes. The practice is gaining popularity, notably in western societies that have more familiarity with social nudity. While many practice naked yoga at home, there are a growing number of group classes.

History
In the West since the 1960s, naked yoga practice has been incorporated in progressive settings for well-being, such as at the Esalen Institute in California, as depicted in the 1968 film Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice. Other films with notable segments include The Harrad Experiment and Naked Yoga, (1974).

In New York City in 1998, an American going by the name Jayadev started a group called "Midnight Yoga for Men" where participants practiced "naked before the infinite" in the style of the sadhus. This spawned a plethora of imitators. Many of these male-only naked yoga groups have been associated with the gay community, though often not intentionally.

Meredith Medland and Ted Mc Elwee made Naked Yoga world famous at One Taste Urban Retreat Center. Meredith Medland is the founder of Naked Yoga – incorporating high level hands on healing/energetic surgery, intuitive body work, vipasanna practice and sensuality to create as she describes it, "a sacred space where groups of people experienced highly transformational experiencing while tapping into their multi-dimensional energies". She is currently living in Santa Barbara, CA teaching "Sexy and Spirited" at the Santa Barbara Athletic Club.

Food and diet occupy an important place in the world of yoga and naturopathy. The effects of improper eating manifest themselves in unwanted appearance, incorrect thought, behavior and hence action.

In yoga, foods have been classified as Rajasik, Tamasik and Sattvik.

Foods, vegetarian or non-vegetarian, that are prepared with excess spices, salts and hot seasonings are Tamasik foods.
Disadvantages: These foods perpetuate laziness and people eating these are characterized by a rough and intolerant temperament.

Sattvik Food: Food of a Yogi...
Foods which are cooked with minimum amount of spices or seasonings and are fresh are sattvik foods. These foods retain their nutritive value as they are cooked in a very simple fashion one of the most powerful & delicious foods which have tremendous benefit on the overall system is sprout. Yoga recommends such foods.

Myth or Reality?
Non vegetarian food is Tamasik, while vegetarian food is Sattvik.

A definite MYTH!
No food by itself is rajasik, tamasik or sattvik. It is the preparation which makes it so. Vegetables such as cabbage, potatoes etc., if cooked with a lot of spices become tamasik while fresh boiled chicken cooked in a simple fashion becomes sattvik.

1. Cultivate the ground with Yama and Niyama, living morally and ethically because it is the only way to live, the only possibility if you seek spiritual growth.

2. Plant your seeds with a controlled and aware body. Thought the practice of Asanas, become strong and flexible enough to sit straight and still for long periods of time

3. Give your young plant food for growth with plenty of Pranayama, breath control, in many patterns and timings, held in and out. Your body and mind will quiet.' themselves with the aid of the breath awareness.

4. Pratyahara is the ability of the young plant of your Yoga Sadhana to hold up to the onslaughts of the outer world as reported back to you by your senses. Many are the enemies for the tender seed, so be aware.

5. Take root firmly in your body, breath and mind, and reach Dharana. Hold to one spot. let your roots go deep. Bend not in the wind, nor before the rain. Grow straight and tall, true and sincere to your purpose, your spiritual goal.

6. If you have cultivated your garden, planted good seeds, provided proper nutrients, and fresh air-, withstood the predators of the world as reported to you by your senses ..... if you have remained true to your spiritual goal and sincere. if you have held yourself body, heart and mind to one spot, in a one-pointed desire for perfection ... then ......

7. The bud of Dhyana may appear on the plant of your life, if your Karma and the grace of God so wills it. Do not pluck It. Tend to it carefully.

8. At the right moment, at the right place, when all 'first works have been done first" the lovely sun may rise of a morning and touch the bud of your aspiration .... and the full flowering of all that has gone before will unfold .... Samadhi ... the magnificent flower of Sincere Yoga Sadhana.

Hold on to this vision. Work for it.

Give over and into the Divine. He is a great gardener. He will make you grow.

• Avoid non-veg., fatty, fried food and sweetmeat.
• Less sugar, less salt, less dal.
• Regularity of meals, light and early dinner.
• Regular walks for half an hour daily, brisk if comfortable.
• Relax for mins. in the day additionally.
• hour hobby daily like learning music.
• Take care against direct breeze.
• Cover body / head when asleep.
• Steam inhalation mins. (not too close to steam)
• Use warm bag on face.
• Check emotionalism, be moderate.
• Blow on paper increasing its distance every week.
• Prefer thin and hard bed to rest.
• Become aware of jerky movements.
• Keep feet warm. Use socks or dip in hot water or use hot bag.
• Use hot water bag for mins on abdomen after food.
• Attend religious, philosophical, and spiritual gatherings. Read from Scriptures daily.
• Avoid unnecessary reading or thinking.
• Stroll for mins, after sitting for hour.
• Note ten pleasant events that take place everyday.
• Do not mention about your problem to other than doctor.
• Write daily time table and check what is not followed.
• Observe manual for half an hour daily.
• Sit in the sun, take sun on affected parts back, chest, face, throat, eyes closed.
• Try to detect first signs of your chronic problem and attend immediately.
• Know and repeat easy yoga practices learnt. (twice daily before meals.)

1. The first Chakra, Muladhara (root), is located at the base of the spine. Its color is red and its issues are survival, stability, and self-sufficiency.
2. The second Chakra, Svadhisthana (sweetness), is located at the lower abdomen (between belly button and pubic bone). Its color is orange and its issues are sexuality, creativity, relationships and emotions.
3. The third Chakra, Manipura (lustrous gem), is located at the solar plexus(between belly button and bottom of rib cage). Its color is yellow and its issues are personal power, self esteem, willfulness and energy.
4. The fourth Chakra, Anahata (not struck), is located at the heart (center of the chest). Its color is green and its issues are love, compassion, acceptance, and trust.
5. The fifth Chakra, Vissudha (purification), is located at the throat. Its color is bright blue and its issues are communication, inspiration, expression, and faith.
6. The sixth Chakra, Ajna (to perceive), is located between the eyebrows, just above the bridge of the nose. Its color is indigo blue and its issues are psychic, emotional and mental intelligence, and intuition.
7. The seventh Chakra, Sahasrara (thousand petaled), is located at the crown (top) of the head. Its color is white or violet and its issues are devotion, inspiration, selflessness, and spiritual understanding.

In the midst of our modern world characterized by daily stress, fatigue, and pollution, more and more people are seeking that elusive sense of relaxation and inward awareness. Hailing from an ancient tradition originated in India, Yoga has long since provided people with a refuge away from the everyday confusion and entropy, and has transported an increasing number of people to a peaceful oasis within. Though the practice of Yoga is closely associated to ancient texts, beliefs, and values, it also yields benefits useful for people's practical daily lives. Here are some reasons why more and more people are practicing Yoga:

* Yoga relaxes the body and the mind. Even in the midst of stressful environments, Yoga helps control breathing and clears the mind of cluttered thoughts, leaving only deep physical and mental refreshment.

* Yoga can help normalize body weight. For people who are either overweight or underweight, Yoga Exercises can help achieve the desired weight. The principles of balance and moderation in physical activity and diet under Yoga can also lead to a healthier lifestyle.

* Yoga improves your resistance to disease. The postures and movements in Yoga massage the internal organs, enhancing blood circulation and functionality, thus, lessening the risk of illness.

* Yoga increases your energy level and productivity. For as quick as 20 minutes, Yoga can replenish the mind and body with precious energy needed to respond to daily tasks and challenges.

* Yoga leads to genuine inner contentment and self-actualization. Meditation -one of the aspects of Yoga- focuses the mind, taking it away from the distractions of the highly-materialistic world and leading it to genuine happiness.

Yoga may seem like the fabled elixir of life - a cure-all solution to man's daily problems and concerns such as illness. But actually, the benefits that Yogis or Yoga practitioners have been experiencing for thousands of years are only being gradually proven by medical science now.

What comes into your mind when you hear the word Yoga?

Well, if you think of women in seemingly impossible poses, then you may have an inkling of what Yoga is. But that's just it - an inkling. You've got a long way to go before fully understanding Yoga.

Yoga is an ancient Indian body of knowledge that dates back more than 5000 years ago. The word "Yoga" came from the Sanskrit word "yuj" which means "to unite or integrate." Yoga then is about the union of a person's own consciousness and the universal consciousness.

Ancient Yogis had a belief that in order for man to be in harmony with himself and his environment, he has to integrate the body, the mind, and the spirit. For these three to be integrated, emotion, action, and intelligence must be in balance. The Yogis formulated a way to achieve and maintain this balance and it is done through exercise, breathing, and Meditation - the three main Yoga structures.

In Yoga, the body is treated with care and respect for it is the primary instrument in man's work and growth.Yoga Exercises improve circulation, stimulate the abdominal organs, and put pressure on the glandular system of the body, which can generally result to better health.

Breathing techniques were developed based on the concept that breath is the source of life. In Yoga, students gain breathing control as they slowly increase their breathing. By focusing on their breathing, they prepare their minds for the next step - Meditation.

There is a general misconception that in Meditation, your mind has to go blank. It doesn't have to be so. In Meditation, students bring the activities of the mind into focus resulting in a 'quiet' mind. By designing physical poses and Breathing Techniques that develop awareness of our body, Yoga helps us focus and relieves us from our everyday stress.

Yoga is one of the six schools of Hindu philosophy, focusing on meditation as a path to self-knowledge and liberation. Hindu texts establishing the basis for yoga include the Upanishads, the Bhagavad Gita, the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, the Hatha Yoga Pradipika and many others.In India, Yoga is seen as a means to both physiological and spiritual mastery. Outside India, Yoga has become primarily associated with the practice of asanas (postures) of Hatha Yoga, although it has influenced the entire dharmic religions family and other spiritual practices throughout the world.

The main branches of Yoga specificed in the Hindu texts, and generally accepted by both modern scholars and practitioners alike, include: Hatha Yoga, Karma Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, and Raja Yoga.