Swami Vivekananda
Swami Vivekananda (1863-1902) was a visionary spiritual leader and disciple of Sri Ramakrishna who introduced Indian philosophy and yoga to the world. Known for his powerful teachings on strength, service, and universal harmony, he inspired millions through his message of self-realization, fearlessness, and unity of all religions.
Yoga, as explained by Swami Vivekananda, is a complete path for developing the body, mind, and spirit. In The Complete Book of Yoga, he describes four main paths -Karma, Raja, Bhakti, and Jnana Yoga - each suited to different human qualities. Karma Yoga teaches selfless action, helping us work without worrying about reward. Raja Yoga focuses on controlling the mind through discipline, breath, and meditation, leading to calmness and clarity. Bhakti Yoga is the path of love and devotion, turning our emotions into a source of strength by connecting the heart with the Divine. Jnana Yoga, the path of knowledge, encourages deep thinking and self-inquiry to understand our true nature.
Together, these four yogas offer a balanced approach to life, guiding us toward inner peace, harmony, and the realization of the divine power within every individual.