What is Kriya Yoga?

Kriya Yoga, often described as the "yoga of action," emphasizes direct personal experience and practice over theoretical knowledge. This path of yoga is deeply rooted in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, where it is defined as a practical approach to spiritual development, encompassing Tapas (discipline), Svadyaya (self-study), and Ishvara Pranidhana (devotion to the divine).

Patanjali posits Kriya Yoga as a means to achieve self-realization and ultimately, union with the divine, through diligent action, introspection, and surrender.

Kriya, meaning "action," specifically refers to the purposeful action taken towards one's inner self for enlightenment. Kriya Yoga is thus distinguished by its focus on inward, transformative practices rather than outward physical exertion alone. This inward focus facilitates the practitioner's journey towards self-mastery, with the premise that by understanding and harmonizing the inner world, one can indeed influence their external reality in a positive manner.

Origins of Kriya Yoga

Kriya yoga's lineage can be traced back to ancient sages in India, with its revival in the modern era attributed to Mahavatar Babaji and brought to global attention by Paramahansa Yogananda in the early 20th century. It is described in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras as the practice of discipline (tapas), self-study (svadhyaya), and devotion (isvara pranidhana) and emphasizes the direct, personal experience of the divine through disciplined practice.

The philosophy of Kriya yoga is grounded in the dual principles of self-effort and divine grace, teaching that personal transformation is achievable through dedicated practice and the surrender to a higher power.

Kriya Yoga Practice

Kriya Yoga practices involve advanced techniques of concentration such as trataka (fire-gazing), dharana (meditation), and pranayama (energy control), all aimed at awakening the kundalini (spiritual energy) and guiding it through the sushumna (central energy channel) of the body. This process facilitates the purification of the mind and body, leading to heightened states of awareness and clarity.

Common Practices: Nadi-Shodhana, Kechari Mudra, Meditation, Trataka, Mantra Meditation

Kriya Yoga Suitability

Experience Level: Mixed Level (Suitable for All)

Physical Demand: Balanced Activity

Mind-Body Engagement: Balanced Mind-Body

Adaptability: Specialized Adaptability

Focus Area: Spiritual Awakening & Self-Realization

Notes on Kriya Yoga

Kriya yoga offers a path to self-realization, integrating physical health with spiritual growth. It fosters self-discipline, inner peace, and a deep connection with the divine.

Similar Styles

Kundalini Yoga, Raja Yoga, Hatha Yoga, Mantra Yoga

One of the 4 Primary Paths of Yoga: Bhakti Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Karma Yoga, Kriya Yoga

Equipment

Required: Meditation Cushion

Nice to Have: Yoga Mat

References

‘Autobiography of a Yogi’ by Paramahansa Yogananda