Bhagavad Gita & Yoga

The "Bhagavad Gita" is the sixth book of "Mahabharata," one of India's most famous poems. Written about 200 A.D., the "Gita" is considered the first yogic Scripture. The Gita contains the teachings of the raja, jnana, karma and bhakti forms of yoga. Each form has unique benefits for physical, mental and spiritual health.

Raja Yoga

In raja yoga, or the yoga of meditation, the mind and senses are disciplined until a complete merger with spirit occurs. In the "Bhagavad Gita," raja yoga follows the meditation teachings of Patanjali, author of the sacred yogic text "Yoga Sutras." In the Gita, a yogi is considered one who is adept at meditation. To practice this form of yoga properly, make a regular practice of sitting meditation. With practice, you can experience the healthful, stress-relieving benefits of a calm mind and a relaxed body.

Jnana Yoga

In the "Bhagavad Gita," jnana yoga is considered the yoga of knowledge or wisdom. A student of jnana yoga tries to develop his will and discrimination so he can dissociate himself from his body, mind and senses until he knows nothing but his spirit. This type of discipline also can help you cultivate better health habits, such as nutritious eating and regular exercise.

Karma Yoga

The "Bhagavad Gita" also teaches karma yoga, which, according to author and vedanta teacher Swami Dayananda, means performing an action for the Lord and in turn receiving results as the Lord's grace. The Gita also teaches eliminating likes and dislikes in karma yoga, to bring about a mind that is tranquil and open. Your body and mind experience a sense of euphoria and peace when you do something kind for another. In the Gita, Lord Krishna describes karma yoga to Arjuna as an attitude that can diffuse one's likes and dislikes while performing an action.

Bhakti Yoga

In the "Bhagavad Gita," bhakti yoga, or the yoga of devotion, is practiced when the follower completely identifies himself with the Lord. Bhakti yoga is also defined as "the way of love." Bhakti yoga is often practiced in the forms of devotional songs, rituals and ceremonies, reading and writing poetry, chanting and meditating. The Gita describes this form of yoga as a way to move toward the highest goal by developing a connection with the heart. This type of yoga can help you develop awareness of your body and its health needs as you develop a consistent yoga practice.