#Bhakti-yoga
Yoga means more than physical exercises. The word “yoga” comes from the Sanskrit root yuj, which means to link or connect. “Bhakti” comes from the Sanskrit root bhaj, which means loving service. Bhakti-yoga means connecting with the Supreme through loving and devotional service.
The Bhagavad-gita, the primary spiritual text of ISKCON, describes various yoga practices. Among them are karma-yoga (the practice of conscious action), jnana-yoga (philosophical inquiry and contemplation), and hatha-yoga (the practice of yoga postures and breathing exercises).
Today, some practitioners of yoga think that the physical benefits of yoga are its ultimate goal. However, according to traditional yoga systems, physical exercises are only a step on the path of God realization. The Bhagavad-gita speaks of bhakti-yoga as the culmination of all yoga practices. Bhakti-yoga focuses on developing our dedication, service, and love for God, Lord Krishna.
Bhakti-yoga, or Krishna consciousness, is the natural, original, and blissful state of every person. Only when we are covered by maya, illusion, do we forget who we are and who the Supreme Person is. Bhakti-yoga is designed to free us from illusion and awaken our innate and eternal spiritual happiness.
Krishna consciousness provides multifaceted benefits. It immediately liberates one from all material miseries, is the beginning of all good fortune, and in itself provides transcendental pleasure. In the Bhagavad-gita, Krishna says that those who achieve Krishna consciousness experience limitless transcendental happiness and believe there is no higher goal.
The practice of Krishna consciousness does not depend on personal beliefs. Anyone can experience the benefits of bhakti-yoga by applying the principles of Krishna consciousness in their life. Those who do so gradually become more interested in eternal, spiritual life and less captivated by temporary, material pursuits (which are the cause of anxiety). Over time, every person can revive their personal relationship with Krishna and enjoy real, uninterrupted happiness.
Bhakti-yoga is developed through various activities. The primary practice of bhakti-yoga is mantra meditation or chanting the names of God. Chanting can be done either individually using beads (japa) or with friends, singing mantras accompanied by musical instruments (kirtana). Other practices include studying sacred texts such as the Bhagavad-gita and Srimad-Bhagavatam, associating with like-minded seekers of spirituality, eating sacred vegetarian food, and living according to the principles of truthfulness, mercy, austerity, and cleanliness.