How to kriya yoga

What is Kriya Yoga?

Kriya Yoga is an ancient yogic science and spiritual practice that has been revived and popularized in modern times, most notably by Paramahansa Yogananda. The term 'Kriya' is derived from the Sanskrit root 'kri,' meaning 'to do' or 'to act.' Therefore, Kriya Yoga can be understood as 'action' or 'movement' in a spiritual context. It is a technique of meditation that uses breath control (pranayama) and specific energetic movements within the body to purify the mind and body, leading to heightened awareness, inner peace, and ultimately, self-realization or union with the divine.

Origins and Lineage

While Paramahansa Yogananda brought Kriya Yoga to the West in the early 20th century through his book 'Autobiography of a Yogi,' the practice itself has much older roots. Yogananda attributed the revival and transmission of Kriya Yoga to his guru, Swami Sri Yukteswar Giri, who in turn received it from his guru, Mahasay Mahasay Gupta. The lineage traces back through a line of yogis and sages, with some traditions suggesting its existence dates back thousands of years. The importance of a direct transmission from a qualified guru is a cornerstone of Kriya Yoga, ensuring the correct understanding and application of its subtle techniques.

Core Principles and Techniques

The central tenet of Kriya Yoga is the acceleration of spiritual evolution. It is believed that through specific yogic techniques, one can achieve in a short period what might otherwise take lifetimes. The primary methods employed in Kriya Yoga include:

Pranayama (Breath Control)

Pranayama is the most significant aspect of Kriya Yoga. Unlike other forms of yoga that may focus on physical postures (asanas), Kriya Yoga places paramount importance on the regulation of breath. The techniques involve precise methods of inhalation, exhalation, and retention of breath, often coordinated with mental focus and visualizations. These controlled breathing exercises are designed to influence the flow of prana (life force energy) within the subtle energy channels (nadis) of the body, purifying them and awakening the dormant spiritual energy at the base of the spine (kundalini).

Mantra and Visualization

Alongside pranayama, Kriya Yoga often incorporates the use of specific mantras (sacred sounds or phrases) and visualizations. These mental components are used to focus the mind, deepen the meditative state, and direct the flow of energy. The repetition of mantras can help quiet the mental chatter and induce a state of profound concentration.

Energetic Anatomy

Kriya Yoga works with the subtle body, particularly the central energy channel (sushumna nadi) and the chakras (energy centers). The practice aims to awaken and guide the kundalini energy up through the sushumna, activating each chakra along the way, leading to higher states of consciousness and spiritual insight.

How to Practice Kriya Yoga

Learning Kriya Yoga is not typically done through books or online tutorials alone. Due to the subtle nature of the techniques and the importance of proper guidance, it is essential to learn directly from a qualified and initiated Kriya Yoga teacher. These teachers belong to a recognized lineage and can provide the necessary initiations and instructions tailored to the individual student.

Finding a Teacher

Prospective students usually seek out centers or organizations that teach Kriya Yoga according to specific lineages, such as those derived from Paramahansa Yogananda (Self-Realization Fellowship/Yogoda Satsanga Society of India) or other authentic Kriya Yoga traditions. The process often involves attending introductory talks, workshops, and eventually receiving formal initiation.

Daily Practice

Once initiated, the student is given specific Kriya techniques to practice regularly, usually daily. The frequency and duration of practice may vary depending on the level of initiation and the guidance of the teacher. Consistency is key, as the benefits of Kriya Yoga are cumulative and unfold gradually over time with dedicated effort.

What to Expect

The practice of Kriya Yoga is described as leading to a state of deep relaxation, mental clarity, and increased energy. Over time, practitioners may experience a profound sense of inner peace, detachment from worldly concerns, and a growing intuition. The ultimate goal is the realization of one's true nature as pure consciousness, free from the limitations of the ego and the cycle of rebirth.

Benefits of Kriya Yoga

Consistent practice of Kriya Yoga is said to offer numerous benefits, including:

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Improved concentration and mental focus
• Enhanced physical and mental vitality
• Greater emotional stability and inner peace
• Deepened self-awareness and spiritual insight
• A sense of connection to the divine

It is important to approach Kriya Yoga with sincerity, patience, and devotion, understanding it as a path of inner transformation rather than a quick fix.