Considered the simplest of the Yogas, Bhakti is a practice of self surrender for the purpose of eventually identifying with the source of love, or the higher SELF. It is not unlike devotion and service associated with religion in the West. The yogi (someo ne who practices Yoga) selects a Saint, Guru, or other figure to direct his devotional love.

Every act in daily life is done to serve the beloved one. Visualizations and mantras are also part of the practice. The goal is to visualize the beloved one all t he time. At first one may have a picture or representation to look at as the visualization skill is developed.

A mantra (sound, word, or phrase) is repeated at the same time as the visualization. Although there are many words that ca n be selected, the sound of "OM" (A-U-M) is one anyone can use. This practice is especially suitable for people with intense emotional natures. Key words are: worship, devotion, self-surrender, visualization, and mantra.