Kriya Yoga

 What is Kriya Yoga?

Kriya Yoga is a spiritual practice that combines specific techniques of breath control (pranayama), meditation, and self-realization. It was popularized by the renowned yogi and spiritual teacher, Paramahansa Yogananda, in his book "Autobiography of a Yogi."


Kriya Yoga aims to awaken the dormant spiritual energy within individuals, facilitating their spiritual evolution and union with the divine. It involves a systematic approach to purifying the mind, body, and energy channels, leading to heightened awareness, inner peace, and self-realization.


The practice of Kriya Yoga typically involves the following elements:
1. Pranayama: Kriya Yoga places significant emphasis on breath control and pranayama techniques. These techniques involve consciously regulating and directing the life force energy (prana) through specific patterns of breathing exercises.


2. Meditation: Kriya Yoga incorporates meditation practices to calm the mind, cultivate inner stillness, and expand awareness. Various meditation techniques, including focusing on the breath, visualization, and mantra repetition, may be employed.


3. Energy Awareness and Control: Kriya Yoga involves developing awareness of the subtle energy centers (chakras) and channels (nadis) in the body. Practitioners learn to direct and balance the flow of energy within these channels, facilitating spiritual growth and awakening.


4. Self-Realization: The ultimate goal of Kriya Yoga is self-realization, or the direct experience and realization of one's true nature. Through regular practice, individuals aim to transcend the limitations of the ego and experience a profound union with the divine or higher consciousness.


Kriya Yoga is considered a comprehensive spiritual path that integrates physical, mental, and spiritual aspects. It is not restricted to any particular religious tradition and is suitable for individuals seeking a disciplined practice for spiritual growth, self-discovery, and inner transformation.


It is important to note that the practice of Kriya Yoga traditionally involves initiation and guidance from a qualified teacher or guru who has received the Kriya Yoga techniques in an authentic lineage. The teacher provides instructions, support, and guidance to practitioners on their spiritual journey.