Raja Yoga is an ancient form of yoga that was first seen in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. The word Raja means king or royal in Sanskrit, so this type of yoga is often called the king of yogas. This form of yoga is also sometimes called classical yoga.
Raja yoga follows the eight limbs described in Patanjali’s text. These eight limbs are Yama (universal morality with others) Niyama (universal morality towards self), Asanas (physical yoga poses), Pranayama (control of prana through breath), Pratyahara (control of senses), Dharana (concentration and stillness), Dhyana (meditation) and Samadhi (enlightenment).
The focus in Raja yoga is to nurture the mind and control thoughts through meditation to achieve enlightenment and balance in the mind, body and spirit. The practice of asana and pranayama are used to prepare the mind for meditation and to enhance concentration.
The meditation in Raja yoga is similar to third eye mediation. The prana, or life energy, is directed through the spine to the third eye, where the focus remains throughout the meditation.
Through meditation, the mind can be controlled and thought patterns changed, so positive thoughts emerge. This leads to contentment and peace of mind, as the negative or obsessive thought patterns are replaced.
The result is to release thoughts and calm the mind. Regular, committed practice of Raja yoga is said to free the practitioner from misery and help him attain bliss and enlightenment.
As with all forms of meditation and yoga, consistency of the practice is essential to gaining the benefits. This is also true of Raja yoga. In order to experience the benefits and peace of mind, daily practice is generally recommended.
This is a spiritual form of yoga and there is an intention to attain union with and knowledge of God. Because this is a spiritual form of yoga, having a teacher is recommended. In the absence of a teacher, you can find books and even YouTube videos and free meditations online to help you get started.