Conclusion

A Yogi (who is devoted
to Integral Yoga) is better than
ascetics, he is superior to those who
possess mere intellectual knowledge;
he is considered even greater than those
who perform actions with desire
(expectation of fruit). Therefore,
O Arjuna, may you
become a Yogi!

— Gita 6-46

CHAPTER TEN

Conclusion

In conclusion, Integral Yoga, which is a blend of the four major Yogas—Karma, Bhakti, Raja and Jnana—if practiced day-by-day, can open a whole new world of physical well-being and mental serenity for you. Through Integral Yoga, you can discover infinite possibilities within yourself culminating in Self-Realization.

To reiterate, the four Yogas are: Karma Yoga—the art of disciplined action, how to be usefully active and actively calm; in other words, how to work effectively; Bhakti Yoga—the art of devotion with the objective of disciplining one’s sentiments and emotions, and cultivating an insight into feelings; Raja Yoga—cultivating a disciplined mind, a strong will, and learning how to concentrate and meditate; Jnana Yoga—mastery over correct thinking by disciplining one’s reason through reflection. In practice, these four Yogas must interact and blend in one’s daily life. In reality, they are not four separate movements, but four aspects of one integral, organic process, or a comprehensive plan of personality integration.

Karma Yoga, well practiced and understood, purifies the mind and leads one to devotion or Bhakti. Devotion, in turn, if well-cultivated and understood, leads to success in meditation, implying the cultivation of a mind free of distraction. A meditative mind, in turn, enables you to develop a richer and fuller experience of devotion. Meditation further leads you to wisdom (Jnana), or an intuitive understanding of the unity that underlies all existence and your true nature.

An Integral Yogi practices the different Yogas and their disciplines in daily life in a harmonious and balanced manner. In simpler terms, day-by-day, there must be a little meditation, dynamic action in the spirit of service, a little study of scriptures, a little repetition of Mantra (short prayer or a positive affirmation), a little Hatha Yoga exercise, a little reflection, and a little entertainment or diversion. If all these are artistically blended in day-to-day life, you are bound to progress on the path of realizing one’s ultimate goal—Self-Realization.

An illustration of tuning a Veena (String-instrument from India) is used to emphasize the necessity of balance in one’s life. Music cannot proceed from the instrument unless its strings are well tuned. If they are too loose, the music will not be melodious. If they are too tight, they will break. So too, it is only when there is balance in your personality that your life can move harmoniously.

Integral Yoga is a constant process of attuning the different “strings” of one’s personality—Action, Emotion, Will and Reason—in daily life. Adopt a happy blend of the four aspects of Yoga. Live a balanced life each day. Bring rhythm and harmony into your thoughts, feelings, desires and actions. Practice Integral Yoga and the Light of Self-Realization is sure to dawn!

ॐ

From the book Integral Yoga: The Secret to Enlightenment by Swami Jyotirmayananda, published by the Yoga Research Foundation. © Swami Jyotirmayananda. All rights reserved.

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