Kriya (Action)

Kriya is a Sanskrit term meaning “action” or “deed.” In yogic philosophy, it refers to any intentional action—physical, mental, or energetic—taken to purify, evolve, or align the practitioner with higher consciousness.

While kriya can refer to simple acts in daily life, in the context of yoga, it is often used to describe internal techniques that awaken energy, clear obstacles, and accelerate spiritual progress. Kriya is purposeful action with awareness.

Etymology and Meaning

Sanskrit Spelling: क्रिया

Root Word: "Kri" (to do, to act, to create)

Translation Variations: Action, effort, technique, sacred task, spiritual operation

Pronunciation: Kriya [KREE-yah]

Unlike automatic or reactive behavior, kriya is conscious, chosen, and directed toward inner clarity or transformation.

Kriya in Yogic Philosophy

In Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras: Kriya yoga is defined as the yoga of action—comprised of tapas (discipline), svadhyaya (self-study), and Ishvara pranidhana (devotion or surrender).

In Kriya Yoga: As taught by Paramahansa Yogananda and others, kriya includes specific breathwork, bandhas (locks), and meditation techniques to awaken prana and accelerate spiritual evolution.

In Hatha Yoga: Kriyas also refer to shatkarmas—cleansing techniques for the physical and energetic body (e.g., neti, nauli, kapalabhati).

Kriya is the bridge between intention and embodiment—bringing aspiration into action and inner work into form.

Symbolism and Elements

Symbol: A flame, representing action that burns away impurity

Element: Fire—transformational, disciplined, and illuminating

Chakra: Manipura (solar plexus), the center of will and inner power

Mantra: Om Kriya Babaji Namaha Aum — honoring the lineage of Kriya yoga

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Practical Application

In Yoga Practice

• Explore traditional kriya practices (e.g., kapalabhati, agni sara, kriya meditation) under guidance
• Treat asana, breath, and mantra as forms of sacred action—kriya infused with awareness
• Approach yoga not only as movement, but as intentional inner cleansing and transformation

In Daily Life

• Make your daily tasks a kriya—intentional, conscious, and aligned with your purpose
• Notice the difference between reactivity and kriya—pause, then act with clarity
• Let rituals become anchors—morning rituals, prayers, or mindful moments as sacred action

Quotes and Wisdom

"Kriya Yoga is the fastest path to realization when practiced with discipline and devotion." — Paramahansa Yogananda

"True action is not mechanical—it is infused with purpose, presence, and grace."

Modern Relevance

In a distracted world of habitual reactivity, kriya invites a return to conscious action.

Whether through breath, movement, or daily decisions, kriya trains the practitioner to live deliberately—moving from inner clarity rather than outer chaos.

It is as relevant in meditation as it is in relationships, work, and self-care.

Related Concepts

Tapas: Inner heat and discipline—one component of kriya yoga

Pranayama: Breath control, often integrated into kriya techniques

Shatkarmas: Yogic cleansing actions considered foundational kriyas in Hatha Yoga

How to Practice Kriya

Mindset: View action as a sacred expression of your inner intention

Actions: Choose rituals or techniques that purify, align, and uplift

Reflection: Ask, “Is this action aligned with my highest purpose?”

Suggested Reading

• Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda
• Kriya Yoga Exposed by SantataGamana
• The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

Conclusion

Kriya means action with awareness—intentional, purifying, and transformational.

Whether in the stillness of breath or the movement of life, kriya reminds us that every step can be sacred, every breath a practice, and every moment a path to deeper presence.