Yoga in Athens refers to traditional physical, mental and spiritual disciplines, whose goal is the attainment of a state of perfect spiritual insight and tranquility. The word is associated with meditative practices in the East. The word is derived from a Sanskrit root which would mean to control or unite. Major branches of yoga in Hindu philosophy include Raja Yoga (is an eight-limbed concept relating to mind restraint), Karma Yoga (Yoga of action), Jnana Yoga (Yoga of knowledge), Bhakti Yoga (Yoga of devotion) and Hatha Yoga (purification of the physical body). Yoga is a system of active striving, mental discipline and dutiful action, and also introduces the conception of God.
