What is Integral Yoga?

Integral yoga is a holistic practice that integrates multiple aspects of yoga to harmonize the body, mind, and spirit. It combines traditional yoga practices like asanas (physical postures), pranayama (breath control), meditation, and ethical principles (yamas and niyamas), with a focus on spiritual growth and self-realization.

The goal of integral yoga is to achieve inner peace, balance, and unity by addressing all aspects of a person’s being.

Integral yoga is distinct in its comprehensive and inclusive approach, blending physical, mental, and spiritual practices. It draws from the teachings of classical yoga but presents them as a unified system that includes all paths of yoga—Karma Yoga (selfless action), Bhakti Yoga (devotion), Jnana Yoga (wisdom), Raja Yoga (meditation), and Hatha Yoga (physical discipline).

The practice is aimed at achieving overall well-being and spiritual growth, making it accessible to people at all levels of experience.

Origins of Integral Yoga

Integral yoga was developed by Sri Swami Satchidananda in 1966, a prominent Indian yogi and spiritual teacher. Swami Satchidananda was deeply influenced by the traditional teachings of yoga and Vedanta, and he sought to create a system that would offer a practical and spiritual guide to modern living.

The practice of Integral Yoga became widely recognized after Swami Satchidananda opened the Woodstock Festival in 1969 with a prayer for peace, introducing many Westerners to his holistic approach to yoga.

The philosophy of integral yoga is grounded in the concept of unity and wholeness, emphasizing the integration of all paths of yoga for complete self-realization. It is based on the teachings of classical yoga, the Bhagavad Gita, and Vedanta, advocating for a balanced life that aligns physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects.

Integral yoga also encourages practitioners to live a life of service, love, and mindfulness in daily activities, cultivating both inner peace and outer harmony.

Practicing Integral Yoga

Integral yoga integrates all aspects of traditional yoga, including ethical living, physical health, mental discipline, and spiritual growth. The practice typically involves:

Asanas (Physical Postures): Physical postures are performed mindfully to balance the body, improve flexibility, and strengthen the muscles. Integral Yoga emphasizes moving gently and deliberately, with an emphasis on alignment and relaxation.

Pranayama (Breath Control): Breath work is used to calm the mind, regulate energy, and promote mental clarity.

Meditation: Meditation is central to the practice, often focusing on mindfulness, breath awareness, and connecting with the divine.

Raja Yoga (Meditation and Mind Control): Techniques to develop concentration, mental discipline, and deep meditation.

Karma Yoga (Selfless Action): Encouraging selfless service to others as a means of spiritual growth.

Bhakti Yoga (Devotion): Practicing love and devotion to God through prayer, chanting, and acts of worship.

Jnana Yoga (Knowledge and Wisdom): Study of scriptures and self-inquiry to understand the nature of the self and reality.

Common Practices

Daily Meditation: Practicing mindfulness or guided meditation for mental clarity and spiritual connection.

Yoga Nidra: A deep relaxation practice to calm the mind and body.

Chanting Mantras: Reciting sacred sounds like "Om" or other mantras to focus the mind and cultivate devotion.

Service (Karma Yoga): Engaging in community work or acts of selfless service as part of the yoga practice.

Scripture Study: Reading and reflecting on the Bhagavad Gita, Upanishads, or other spiritual texts as part of the practice.

Common Poses

• Mountain Pose (Tadasana)
• Tree Pose (Vrikshasana)
• Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana)
• Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana)
• Corpse Pose (Savasana)

Pranayama Practices

• Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing)
• Dirga Pranayama (Three-Part Breath)
• Kapalabhati (Skull Shining Breath)

Meditation Practices

• Mindfulness Meditation
• Guided Meditation
• Mantra Meditation

Integral Yoga Suitability

Experience Level: Beginner-Friendly, Mixed Level (Suitable for All)

Physical Demand: Gentle Movement to Balanced Activity

Mind-Body Engagement: Balanced Mind-Body to Primarily Meditative

Adaptability: Highly Adaptable

Focus Area: Comprehensive Fitness, Spiritual Growth, and Mental Clarity

Notes on Integral Yoga

Practicing Integral Yoga can improve physical flexibility, strength, and balance, while promoting mental clarity and emotional resilience. The spiritual aspect of the practice helps practitioners connect with their inner selves and develop a sense of peace and purpose. Integral Yoga is particularly beneficial for reducing stress, enhancing mindfulness, and encouraging self-awareness and personal growth.

Similar Styles

Hatha Yoga, Raja Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Karma Yoga, Jnana Yoga

Equipment

Required: Yoga Mat

Nice to Have: Meditation Cushion, Blanket

Optional: Mala Beads, Scriptures for Study (Bhagavad Gita, Upanishads)

References and Resources

‘The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali’ by Sri Swami Satchidananda: A translation and commentary by the founder of Integral Yoga, offering insights into classical yoga philosophy.

‘Integral Yoga Hatha’ by Sri Swami Satchidananda: A guide to the physical postures, breath control, and meditation practices of Integral Yoga.

‘The Bhagavad Gita’: A key text in the study of yoga and self-realization.

Integral Yoga Institute: The main organization offering classes, workshops, and teacher training programs in Integral yoga, located in various centers around the world, including the U.S. and Europe.

Website: Integral Yoga Institute

Satchidananda Ashram (Yogaville): A retreat center and community founded by Swami Satchidananda in Virginia, offering courses and retreats for Integral Yoga.

Website: Yogaville