Yoga

What is Rajadhiraja Yoga?

Translated as the 'yoga of the king of kings'.

Rajadhiraja yoga is a complete system of yoga which incorporates all of Patanjali's 8 limbs of yoga plus extras. It is rooted in the ancient practices of tantra yoga.

It is a spiritually focused system of yoga which ultimately supports us to walk along the path to self-realisation.

So what does this mean in practical terms?

The 8 limbs include:

1. Yama - ethical principles

2. Niyamas - ethical principles

3. Asana - seat or posture

4. Pranayama - breathing techniques to control prana

5. Pratyahara - withdrawal of the mind and senses

6. Dharana - concentration

7. Dhyana - meditation

8. Samadhi - a state of oneness

Many of the practices of Rajadhiraja yoga have a focus upon their effects upon the glandular system and chakras which were discovered by Shiva, a spiritual master living 7000 years ago. The current form of the yoga practice was revived and expanded by Shrii Shrii Anandamurti and incorporates the 8 limbs of yoga, the teachings of Shiva and teachings from Tantra.

The practices build upon each other to gradually work upon the chakras and nadiis in the body which exist as part of a subtle energy system. Over time this enables us to enjoy greater physical, emotional, mental and spiritual health. The ultimate goal for those who desire it is union between our individual mind (soul) and the cosmic mind - oneness.

Asana

Asanas are the postures that are commonly associated with yoga in the Western world. The asanas go far beyond providing stretching and exercise to the body, they also serve to regulate the hormones and subtle energy centres of the body. And they are traditional taught withing the tradition of yoga as a means to prepare the body and mid for meditation.

Pranayama

Pranayama refers to control of pranah (vital energy) by using the breath. This aids control of the mind and prepares for meditation.

There are many health benefits from a regular practice of pranayama.

Meditation

Meditation is a deeply transformative and healing practice which allows you to get to know the workings of your own mind. With practice it can aid in overcoming years of conditioned behaviour and discovering who you truly are.

Philosophy

The philosophy of yoga may originate from long ago, but it has within in much wisdom which is relevant to modern day practice and spiritual development. The absolute truth of reality can only be known through direct experience but the teachings contained within the yogic scriptures can act as a catalyst to spiritual development and deepen our understanding of why we practise yoga and what the ultimate goal is.