One of the six schools of Hindu philosophy, Vedanta is based on the teachings found in certain ancient Indian texts, including the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita. Although there are several branches of Vedanta, the main idea behind the philosophy is that every person’s true nature is divine. Vedanta also teaches that all people can realize their divine nature and achieve a higher state of consciousness through deliberate and sustained effort.
According to Vedanta teachings, there are several paths that one can take to realize the true self. Known as the four yogas, these paths can be practiced separately or in combination with one another. Each of the four yogas at the heart of Vedanta channel and develop individual strengths and work to improve one’s intellect, emotions, will, and self-awareness. A globally practiced philosophy, Vedanta is taught at more than 20 societies in the United States and at nearly 200 more in cities around the globe.