Podcast details
Hatha Yoga or Raja Yoga?
The distinction between Haṭha and Rāja Yoga is often misunderstood. Haṭha Yoga traditionally consists of six purificatory kriyās for cleansing body and mind. Many believe they practice Haṭha Yoga through postures and breath, but these are actually the third and fourth limbs of Rāja Yoga. Correct knowledge is needed to practice accurately. Āsana and Prāṇāyāma in Haṭha Yoga aim for good health, which is a foundation. The deeper purpose of yoga leads to self-realization and philosophy. For this journey, a true master is essential—a brahmaniṣṭha śrotriya, one established in supreme knowledge who can inspire. Such a realized teacher is rare, distinct from those driven by desire. A true master's presence is not confined to a physical body, as they are connected to all.
"Please correct when you practice Rāja Yoga, Āsanas, Prāṇāyāmas, relaxation, concentration, and meditation. It means you are doing Rāja Yoga and not Haṭha Yoga."
"A Gurū is completely satisfied. He is one with all."
Filming location: Sydney, Australia
This text is transcribed and grammar corrected by AI. If in doubt what was actually said in the recording, use the transcript to double click the desired cue. This will position the recording in most cases just before the sentence is uttered.
The text contains hyperlinks in bold to three authoritative books on yoga, written by humans, to clarify the context of the lecture:
- Yoga in Daily Life - The System
Paramhans Swami Maheshwarananda. Ibera Verlag, Vienna, 2000. ISBN 978-3-85052-000-3 - The Hidden Power in Humans - Chakras and Kundalini
Paramhans Swami Maheshwarananda. Ibera Verlag, Vienna, 2004. ISBN 978-3-85052-197-0 - Lila Amrit - The Divine Life of Sri Mahaprabhuji
Paramhans Swami Madhavananda. Int. Sri Deep Madhavananda Ashram Fellowship, Vienna, 1998. ISBN 3-85052-104-4
