Pablo Martino 
Nothing in this world exists in singularity. Over time, one thing evolves and breaks down into different branches. Similarly, the art of yoga has evolved over the centuries. Therefore, the existence of different branches of yoga is evidence of growth. The availability of so many branches of yoga makes it hard for newbie practitioners. They get confused about which yoga branch to go with.
To ensure you do not get confused and easily choose the yoga form, here are the different branches of yoga. Make sure you go through them and know how one is different from the other. In case you want to know more about any one of them, consider joining the RYT certification course.
Different Branches of Yoga
Hatha Yoga
Hatha yoga is sometimes considered as ‘the yoga of force’. It is one of the foundational yoga forms that anyone can learn and practice. Sun and Moon’s energies play a vital role in the Hatha yoga branch. For that matter, Hatha yoga has different physical asanas that work towards balancing these energies.
Various other branches of yoga emerged out of Hatha yoga. Therefore, it is one of the best and core branches of yoga for the development of other forms of yoga. It is easier since you slowly build strength and power to execute different yoga poses.
Raja Yoga
Every human mind is a slave to its thought patterns (Vritti). That is where the art of Raja yoga comes into being. It offers complete control over your mind that further eliminates the thinking patterns. That is why Raja yoga has abundant mindfulness techniques along with different physical asanas that help you connect with your mind better.
Dharna (concentration) is the ultimate goal for which you practice Raja yoga. As clear from the name itself, Raja yoga is also known as the ‘King’ of branches of yoga. Therefore, with victory over your mind, you become entitled to gain mastery over the physical dimension.
Karma Yoga
In yogic spirituality, Karma denotes actions. Therefore, with the practice of Karma yoga, you move closer to a path of selflessness. Every action gives birth to another action. This makes a set of chains that decides what will you receive.
The art of Karma yoga can be practiced even off the mat. You learn how your action will come back to you in a particular situation or consequence. In short, karma yoga is a branch of yoga that helps you become aware of what you do, the intention behind it, and what will you receive.
Bhakti Yoga
As depicted from the name itself, Bhakti means devotion. Under the scope of this branch of yoga, a practitioner executes different actions for a particular deity. Doing this gives rise to feelings of love and compassion. Not just for human beings rather for all living beings, you learn to feel compassion.
The ultimate goal of practicing Bhakti yoga is surrender. You become humble that do not let your ego evolve. Hence, it is one of the most effective branches of yoga that is going to enhance your overall mental state.
Jnana Yoga
Every soul works hard to acquire knowledge for ages. However, that knowledge might not come in handy without any practical application. That is why Jnana yoga comes into play. With the practice of Jnana yoga, a practitioner develops wisdom and experience.
‘Who Am I’ is one of the most asked questions in the spiritual world. That can be answered with the diligent practice of Jnana yoga. It helps in evoking truth that ensures you stay away from the false or untrue way of living.
Tantra Yoga
Tanta yoga is all about rituals and traditions. The human mind and bodywork in unison with one another. To bind them together stronger, Tantra yoga plays a vital role. Any change in the human body or mind has numerous changes.
Therefore, the Tantra yoga practice helps you go beyond all the limitations inside your head. It further gives you proper control over different energies in the body and mind.
Sum Up
Going through different branches of yoga will help you know which is perfect for you. Having brief insight makes it easier for you to choose the right form. Whether you want to practice yoga for stress reduction or weight loss, the right technology helps you achieve goals faster.
