Kriya Yoga is a spiritual practice that aims to accelerate spiritual growth and
bring about a deep state of tranquility and God-communion. It was popularized in
the West by Paramahansa Yogananda through his book "Autobiography of a Yogi." The
techniques of Kriya Yoga are traditionally taught through a guru-disciple
relationship, and the specific details are often kept confidential. However, I can
provide a general overview of the principles and steps involved in Kriya Yoga based
on publicly available information.
General Principles of Kriya Yoga
Breath Control (Pranayama): Central to Kriya Yoga is the control of breath,
which helps in controlling the life force (prana) and calming the mind.
Meditation: Deep meditation is used to transcend the ego and realize the self.
Mantra: Silent repetition of a mantra to focus the mind.
Devotion and Surrender: Cultivating a sense of devotion and surrender to the
divine.
Step-by-Step Overview of Kriya Yoga Techniques
Preparation:
Find a quiet place where you won't be disturbed.
Sit in a comfortable meditation posture, such as Padmasana (Lotus Pose) or
Siddhasana (Adept's Pose), with your spine erect.
Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths to relax your body and mind.
Hong-Sau Technique (Preliminary Practice):
Focus on your natural breath without trying to control it.
Silently repeat the mantra "Hong" on the inhalation and "Sau" on the
exhalation.
This helps in calming the mind and preparing it for deeper meditation.
Om Technique:
Chant the sacred sound "Om" mentally or aloud.
Feel the vibration of "Om" resonating throughout your body and mind.
This helps in attuning your consciousness to the divine vibration.
Kriya Proper:
Breath Awareness: Focus on the natural flow of your breath.
Mental Rotation: With each breath, mentally rotate your awareness up and
down the spine, visualizing the movement of energy (prana) along the spine.
Chakra Awareness: As you rotate your awareness, focus on the energy centers
(chakras) along the spine, particularly the Ajna Chakra (between the eyebrows) and
the Sahasrara Chakra (crown of the head).
Mantra Repetition: Silently repeat your chosen mantra in sync with your
breath and mental rotation.
Deep Meditation:
After practicing the Kriya techniques, sit in deep meditation.
Allow your mind to become completely still and absorbed in the divine
presence.
Experience the state of inner peace and oneness with the universe.
Closing:
Gradually bring your awareness back to your physical surroundings.
Take a few deep breaths and gently open your eyes.
Sit quietly for a few moments, reflecting on your experience.
Important Considerations
Guru Guidance: It is highly recommended to learn Kriya Yoga from a qualified
guru who can provide personalized guidance and ensure that you are practicing
correctly.
Regular Practice: Consistency is key. Regular practice will yield the best
results.
Moral and Ethical Living: Kriya Yoga is not just a physical practice but a way
of life. Living a life of honesty, non-violence, and self-discipline enhances the
effectiveness of the practice.
Conclusion
Kriya Yoga is a profound spiritual practice that can lead to deep states of
meditation and self-realization. While the general steps can be outlined, the true
essence and effectiveness of the practice come from direct transmission and
guidance from a qualified teacher. If you are serious about pursuing Kriya Yoga,
seek out a reputable teacher or organization that can provide proper initiation and
instruction.
