Raja yoga is the path of introspection. It encompasses many other seperate paths of yoga. It is the path in which one attempts to explore the different realms of the mind: conscious, subconscious, unconscious and beyond. The purpose is to become increasingly aware of these different aspects of being. Raja yoga consists of eight steps or limbs which the aspirant must progressively master on the path to self-realization. They are yamas(self-restraints), Niyamas(self- observances), Asanas(postures), Pranayama(breath regulation), Pratyahara(withdrawl of senses), Dharana (concentration), Dhyana(meditation), Samadhi(deep concentration).
Jnana Yoga is the path of enquiry. Jnana yoga is the method of union through intuitive flashes. Jnana is the path of intense reflection. Higher awareness can never arise through rational thinking. The truth is realized through insight. Jnana is the result. The path of jnana yoga can be defined as the path of enquiry and inference. The foundation of jnana yoga is that one should know and feel the limitations of intellectual thought. From intense enquiry comes intuitive knowledge-jnana. It is often said that jnana yoga is the most difficult path but this in not really true. It is only difficult if it does not suit one’s personality. Jnana yoga requires that one must throw out all concepts, dogmas, ideas that need not be true from personal experience. Jnana yoga is the path for few, for it requires strong willpower and the overwhelming need to find an answer. If one has obsessive need for answers then jnana yoga will come spontaneously. To tread the path of jnana yoga one must be ruthless. If one wishes to follow the path of jnana yoga one should believe nothing. This is why it is regarded as a difficult path. Jnana yoga can therefore be practised only by those people with unflinching determination.
Mantra yoga is the yoga of sound. Mantra yoga uses the power of sound to induce subtle mental changes, and to evoke mental and psychic manifestation. Mantra yoga is also known as Japa yoga. In mantra or japa yoga a particular mantra is usually repeated over and over again either verbally or mentally, producing mental tranquility, concentration and increased awareness of the inner processes of the mind.