Mārgas are the main paths, according to the Bhagavad Gīta and other historical yoga documents.
The engagement of one a single or multiple paths assist in reaching the ultimate goal of Yoga.
Each path has the goal of releasing the self from the mundane physical world, which is often labeled as achieving “mokṣa” or freedom.
The main paths of Yoga (mārgas) spoken of to Arjuna in the Bhagavad Gita are:
Each is suited to a different temperament or approach to life.
As the modern integrates Yoga into it other branches are evolving, such as Hatha, and older ones are being revealed like Tantra. This introductory video shares a bit about each.
**An additional interpretation of the Yoga paths from the Sivananda Perspective.
Interested in the macro view of Yoga philosophies?
Historical Perspectives & Yoga’s Evolution
Videos
Yoga Demonstration by B.K.S. Iyengar
1976 Yoga demonstration and spoken definition of Yoga.
As Science becomes more subtle in its ability to measure, it is discovering that the wisdom of Yoga is actually objectively quantifiable. Join us on a journey through the very latest medical and scientific research about the healing benefits of Yoga.
Further Reading
- Poised for Grace by Douglas Brooks
An invaluable study guide from a uniquely Tantric point of view.
- The Bhagavad-Gītā in the Mahābhārata by J.A.B. van Buitenen
A bilingual translation with the English on one side and Sanskrit on the other.
- Bhagavad Gītā: A New Translation by Stephen Mitchell
An english translation with explanation of this ancient masterpiece.
- Light on Life: The Yoga Journey to Wholeness, Inner Peace, and Ultimate Freedom by B.K.S. Iyengar
A yogic lens of the kośas is used in this book to examine the nature of being.