Yoga is more than just physical exercise. The word “yoga” comes from the Sanskrit root Yuj, which means to join or combine. Bhakti is derived from the Sanskrit word bhaj, which means – loving service. Bhakti-yoga means connecting with the Supreme through loving devotional service.

The Bhagavad Gita, the core spiritual text of ISKCON, describes a number of yoga practices. Among them are karma yoga (the practice of conscious action), jnana yoga (philosophical study and contemplation), and hatha yoga (the practice of yoga asanas and breathing exercises).

If one offers Me with love and devotion a leaf, a flower, a fruit or water, I will accept it.

Bhagavad-gītā As It Is. 9.26

Today, some yogis consider the physical benefits of yoga as an end in itself. But according to traditional yoga systems, physical exercises are only one step on the path to God-realization. Ultimately, the Gita prescribes bhakti-yoga (the path of devotion and love) as the culmination of other yoga practices. Bhakti-yoga focuses on developing our devotion, service, and love for the Divine, Lord Krishna.

The path of bhakti yoga is developed through a variety of activities. These include mantra meditation, or chanting the names of God. Chanting is done either individually on beads (japa) or communally by chanting mantras accompanied by music (kirtan). The study of sacred texts such as the Bhagavad-gita and Srimad Bhagavatam, the association of like-minded spiritual aspirants, the eating of sanctified vegetarian food, and living in a manner that upholds the principles of truthfulness, compassion, austerity, and cleanliness are all core practices of a life as a bhakti follower.