The word yoga means "union" in Sanskrit . It originated in India possibly as early as 3300 BC. Yoga has been defined as "technologies or disciplines of a life-style and meditation which are thought to lead to spiritual experiences and a deep understanding or insight into the nature of existence Outside India, yoga is mostly associated with the practice of Asanas (Postures) of Hatha Yoga or as a form of exercise.

Branches of Yoga :

• Hatha Yoga : Hatha yoga is a strong practice done for Purification.It also called Hatha Vidya is a particular system of Yoga introduced by Yogi Swatmarama a sage of 15th century India.
• Karma Yoga : The word Karma is derived from the Sanskrit Kri, meaning 'to do', in its most basic sense karma simply means action, and yoga translates to union. Thus Karma yoga literally translates to the path of union through action.
• Jnana Yoga : Jnana yoga path of knowledge .As used in the Bhagavad Gita the monist philosopher Adi Shankara gave primary importance to jnana yoga as "knowledge of the absolute".
• Bhakti Yoga : Bhakti Yoga, the spiritual practice of fostering loving devotion to God, Bhakti is the Sanskrit term that signifies a blissful, selfless and overwhelming love of God as the beloved Father, Mother, Child, Friend or whichever relationship or personal aspect of God that finds appeal in the devotee's heart.
• Raja Yoga : Raja Yoga is so-called because it is primarily concerned with the mind. The mind is traditionally conceived as the "king" of the psycho-physical structure which does its bidding .