Raja yoga is one of the four classical schools of yoga alongside Jnana (knowledge or self-study), Bhakti (devotion) and Karma (action), each offering a path to moksha (spiritual liberation) and self-realization.

In Sanskrit, raja means ‘king" or ‘royal," referring to the status of Raja yoga as a "royal path"’ or principal form of yoga. Traditionally, Raja yoga refers to both the goal of yoga and the method of attaining it. As such, it is also considered to be the state of peace and contentment that arises from sustained yoga and meditation practice.

In the yoga tradition, there are many different paths and philosophies, but they all lead toward the same goal—attaining moksha or liberation. Raja yoga is viewed as the supreme or “royal path” to attaining this state of unity of mind-body-spirit. Raja yoga is a systematic approach that has been practiced for thousands of years by yogis who have attained great levels of spiritual awareness. It is so highly revered because it attains enlightenment from direct control and mastery of the mind. This approach is an extremely challenging and difficult practice to engage in, yet the structure of the eight-fold path makes it possible with dedication and practice.

In essence, Raja yoga is the yoga of mind and body control, with a focus on meditation and energetics. It encompasses teachings from all the different paths, and it is from Raja yoga that hatha yoga and modern asana practice developed. Since Raja yoga involves all three dimensions of human existence (physical, mental and spiritual), it enables practitioners to achieve balance and harmony on all of these levels.