A Raja Yoga session is primarily an inner practice, focused on progressive mastery of the mind and deep meditation . Unlike other styles of yoga that are more oriented toward physical postures, Raja Yoga focuses on spiritual evolution , incorporating elements of controlled breathing , withdrawal of the senses , and mental concentration . This approach emphasizes the mental stages of yoga, while also including basic physical postures and breathing techniques to prepare the body and mind for meditation. Here is an overview of the typical stages of a Raja Yoga session:

1. Opening Chants and Mantras : Raja Yoga sessions often begin with mantra chants to establish a spiritual atmosphere. The mantra "Om," a symbol of universal consciousness, is frequently used to calm the mind and prepare for practice. These chants connect the practitioner to a deeper spiritual dimension from the very beginning of the session.
2. Pranayama (Controlled Breathing) : Raja Yoga places great importance on breathing techniques , as they help purify the nadis (energy channels) and calm the mind. Pranayamas such as Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing) and Ujjayi (Victorious Breathing) are often practiced to calm the nervous system and create a state of deep relaxation . This prepares the body and mind for the next stages of the practice, where concentration and meditation will be essential.
3. Asanas (Physical Postures) : Although Raja Yoga focuses primarily on mental control, basic postures from Hatha Yoga are often practiced at the beginning of the session to strengthen and loosen the body. These postures are chosen for their ability to relax the body and prepare the practitioner to sit for extended periods . Postures such as Padmasana (Lotus Pose) , Sukhasana (Easy Pose) , and Vajrasana (Diamond Pose) are favored for their comfort and ability to stabilize the body, thus promoting prolonged meditation.
4. Pratyahara (Withdrawal of the Sense) : One of the most distinctive stages of Raja Yoga is withdrawal of the senses , called Pratyahara . This practice involves diverting the senses from external stimuli to focus attention inward. The practitioner is guided through visualization or concentration exercises that allow them to detach their mind from sensory distractions, promoting a state of deep calm and mental silence . This is a crucial step in mastering thoughts and preparing for concentration and meditation.
5. Dharana (Concentration) : After Pratyahara, the practice continues with Dharana , prolonged concentration on a single point. This can be a physical object (such as a candle flame), a sound (such as the mantra "Om" ), or simply the breath. The goal is to train the mind to remain focused on a single point, without being distracted by extraneous thoughts. This intense concentration is essential to prepare the practitioner for deep meditation.
6. Dhyana (Deep Meditation) : The heart of Raja Yoga is meditation (Dhyana) . Once the practitioner has stabilized his mind through Dharana, he enters a state of deep meditation. Here, the mind becomes completely immersed in contemplation, and the distinction between the meditator and the object of meditation gradually fades away. The goal is to achieve a state of absolute calm , where the fluctuations of the mind are entirely controlled, and the mind remains perfectly stable in the awareness of the present moment.
7. Samadhi (Spiritual Union) : Although this state is not always achieved in a single session, Samadhi is the ultimate goal of Raja Yoga practice. It is the complete union between the practitioner and universal consciousness. In this state, all dualities disappear, and the individual realizes their oneness with the divine . It is a state of total bliss and spiritual realization where the ego disappears and inner peace is complete.
8. Final Relaxation (Shavasana) : After meditation, the session ends with a period of deep relaxation in Shavasana (Corpse Pose) . This step allows you to integrate the benefits of the practice and release any residual tension. The practitioner is encouraged to relax completely, while maintaining a subtle awareness of their body and breathing.
9. Closing Chants (Mantras and Prayers) : To close the session, mantras or prayers are often recited, reinforcing the spiritual connection established during the practice. This may include invocations for peace, such as the Shanti Mantra , or prayers of thanks for the benefits of the practice. This final devotional moment helps conclude the session on a high spiritual note.

Each Raja Yoga session thus follows a spiritual and mental journey that helps to calm the mind , soothe fluctuations of the spirit , and awaken inner awareness . By focusing on meditation and mastery of the mind, Raja Yoga offers a path to spiritual awakening , while providing a solid foundation for daily spiritual practice .