Discover the Ancient Paths to Liberation
Yoga is not merely a set of physical postures but a complete spiritual science for self-realisation and union with the Divine. The Sanskrit root yuj means “to unite,” signifying the integration of body, mind, energy, and spirit with the eternal Self (Ātman) known as Swa-astha and the Supreme Reality (Brahman) known as Brahma-nistha.
Many different streams of yoga have developed to suit the diverse temperaments of seekers in recent decades. From the original roots of yoga, the following nine paths are among the most recognised systems, each providing a unique approach while ultimately leading to the same goal of liberation (mokṣa).
The nine paths of yoga reflect the profound diversity within Sanātana Dharma, accommodating the intellectual, devotional, action-oriented, and contemplative seeker alike. Though distinct in practice, they converge in their ultimate aim – liberation and union with the Divine.
“Whatever path men travel is My path; no matter where they walk, it leads to Me.”
— Bhagavad Gītā 4.11
Key Themes
1 Hatha Yoga – The Path of Discipline and Balance
Emphasises purification and balance through āsana, prāṇāyāma, mudrā and bandha.
Goal: Mastery of body and mind, preparation for higher meditation.
Texts: Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā, Gheraṇḍa Saṁhitā.
2 Jñāna Yoga – The Path of Knowledge
The yoga of wisdom and self-inquiry rooted in Vedānta.
Goal: Realisation of the Self as non-different from Brahman.
Texts: Upaniṣads, Bhagavad Gītā, Vivekacūḍāmaṇi.
3 Rāja Yoga – The Path of Meditation
Patañjali’s eight-limbed path leading to mastery of the mind and samādhi.
Goal: Direct experience of Self-realisation.
Texts: Yoga Sūtras of Patañjali.
4 Tantra Yoga – The Path of Sacred Ritual and Energy
Explores union with the Divine through mantra, yantra and awakening inner energies.
Goal: Union of Śakti and Śiva.
Texts: Vijñāna Bhairava Tantra, Śiva Sūtras.
5 Kuṇḍalinī Yoga – The Path of Awakening Inner Power
Centres on awakening kuṇḍalinī śakti through breath, mantra and meditation.
Goal: Expansion of awareness and liberation.
Texts: Ṣaṭ-Cakra-Nirūpaṇa, Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā, Kundalini Upanishad.
6 Karma Yoga – The Path of Selfless Action
Spiritual realisation through selfless service and detachment from results.
Goal: Purification of ego and realisation through service.
Texts: Bhagavad Gītā Ch. 3 & 5.
7 Bhakti Yoga – The Path of Devotion
Love and surrender to God through prayer, chanting and service.
Goal: Union with the Divine through devotion.
Texts: Bhagavad Gītā Ch. 12, Nārada Bhakti Sūtras, Bhāgavata Purāṇa.
8 Mantra Yoga – The Path of Sacred Sound
Uses japa (repetition) to awaken consciousness and align with cosmic vibration.
Goal: Transformation of mind and realisation through sound.
Texts: Mantra-Yoga-Samhitā, Rig Veda.
9 Swara Yoga – The Path of Breath Awareness
Observes the flow of prāṇa through iḍā, piṅgalā and suṣumṇā nāḍīs to harmonise with cosmic rhythms.
Goal: Harmony with universal energy and mastery over destiny.
Texts: Śiva Swarodaya.
Course Format
• Duration: 9 weeks
• Sessions: Weekly live online sessions
• Core Teachings: Exploring each classical path through philosophy and guided practice
• Focus: Integration of Sanātana Dharma principles for a balanced life
Is This Course for You?
This course is suitable for:
• Seekers who wish to deepen their understanding of classical Yoga and Sanātana Dharma
• Yoga teachers and practitioners seeking philosophical depth and inspiration
• Spiritual aspirants drawn to the roots of India’s sacred wisdom
• Anyone longing for a structured path to self-realisation
Course Details
• Dates: Fridays, 16 January – 13 March 2026
• Time: 7:00 PM UK
• Duration: 90 min (MAX)
• Platform: Online - Zoom (link provided upon registration)
• Recordings: All attendees will receive access to video recordings after each class
• Fee: £79 for the complete course
About the Teacher
Yogachariya Jnandev Giri is the Founder and Director of Gurukula UK & Portugal, Founder of Sanatan Yoga, and a Gitananda Yoga Chikitsa Achariya from ICYER Puducherry India. He is a devoted teacher of traditional yoga and Sanātana Dharma, sharing the depth and beauty of India’s spiritual heritage through his teachings worldwide. His approach combines ancient discipline with accessible guidance, inspiring students to live with clarity, balance, and devotion.
