Kriya Yoga, a profound spiritual practice that combines meditation, breath control, and self-discipline, traces its origins back to ancient India. It is rooted in the teachings of yoga and the profound wisdom of the Himalayan sages. The word "Kriya" is derived from the Sanskrit term "kri," meaning action, and "ya," meaning soul. Together, Kriya Yoga translates to the "yoga of action" or the "yoga of the soul." In this article, we explore the rich history of Kriya Yoga and its numerous benefits for practitioners.
History of Kriya Yoga:
The ancient roots of Kriya Yoga can be found in the sacred scriptures known as the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, dating back over 2,000 years. However, it was the great yogi and spiritual teacher, Mahavatar Babaji, who is often credited with reintroducing Kriya Yoga to the world in its present form.
According to the teachings of the legendary yogi, Babaji initiated his disciple Lahiri Mahasaya into the practice of Kriya Yoga in the 19th century. Lahiri Mahasaya, in turn, shared this profound technique with his disciples, including the famous spiritual guru Paramahansa Yogananda.
Paramahansa Yogananda's efforts in the early 20th century played a pivotal role in popularizing Kriya Yoga in the West. He wrote the iconic spiritual classic, "Autobiography of a Yogi," which described his own experiences with Kriya Yoga and its transformative power. Yogananda's teachings inspired countless seekers worldwide, leading to the establishment of numerous Kriya Yoga centers and organizations.
Benefits of Kriya Yoga:
Spiritual Transformation: Kriya Yoga is a path of self-realization and spiritual evolution. Practitioners experience a profound inner transformation as they connect with their higher self and the divine. Regular practice can lead to a deeper understanding of one's purpose and a sense of oneness with all of creation.
Stress Reduction: Kriya Yoga involves various breathing techniques and meditation practices that calm the mind and promote relaxation. The systematic approach of Kriya Yoga helps individuals release stress, anxiety, and tension, fostering a sense of inner peace and tranquility.
Enhanced Focus and Concentration: The meditation practices in Kriya Yoga improve concentration and mental clarity. As the mind becomes more focussed, practitioners find it easier to accomplish tasks, make decisions, and maintain mindfulness in their daily lives.
Increased Energy Levels: The conscious control of breath and prana (life force) in Kriya Yoga helps to channel and increase energy levels in the body. This renewed vitality leads to greater enthusiasm, productivity, and overall well-being.
Physical Health Benefits: Kriya Yoga's focus on breath control and specific postures contributes to physical well-being. It can improve respiratory functions, promote better circulation, and enhance overall flexibility and balance.
Emotional Balance: Kriya Yoga empowers practitioners to navigate their emotions with greater awareness and equanimity. By observing thoughts and feelings during meditation, individuals can develop emotional resilience and maintain inner harmony.
Liberation from Past Patterns: The regular practice of Kriya Yoga purifies the subconscious mind, releasing old patterns, and negative conditioning. This process allows practitioners to experience a greater sense of freedom and liberation from past limitations.
Kriya and Kundalini
Kriya Yoga and Kundalini are closely interconnected, as Kriya Yoga is considered one of the most effective methods for awakening and guiding the dormant Kundalini energy in the human body. Both practices are rooted in ancient Indian spiritual traditions and share common principles, including the understanding of subtle energy systems and the goal of spiritual awakening and self-realization. Here's how Kriya Yoga is connected to Kundalini:
Activation of Kundalini: In the practice of Kriya Yoga, specific breathing techniques (pranayama), meditations, and energy control methods are employed to awaken and guide the dormant Kundalini energy, which is often represented as a coiled serpent lying at the base of the spine. Kriya Yoga provides a systematic approach to stimulate the Kundalini and facilitate its upward movement through the central energy channel (Sushumna).
Purification of Energy Channels: Kriya Yoga involves the purification of the energy channels (nadis) in the body to ensure a smooth flow of Kundalini energy. Through regular practice, blockages and impurities in the subtle energy pathways are removed, allowing the Kundalini to ascend freely.
Chakra Activation: Both Kriya Yoga and Kundalini teachings acknowledge the existence of chakras, which are energy centres aligned along the spine. Kriya Yoga aims to activate and balance the chakras as the Kundalini energy rises through each of them. Each chakra represents different aspects of human experience, and their activation leads to various psychological and spiritual benefits.
Spiritual Evolution: The ultimate goal of both Kriya Yoga and Kundalini practices is spiritual evolution and self-realization. By awakening and guiding the Kundalini energy, practitioners aim to achieve higher states of consciousness, profound insights, and a direct experience of their true nature.
Intense Experiences: Both practices can lead to intense experiences during the Kundalini awakening process. Practitioners may encounter powerful energy sensations, heightened awareness, and periods of bliss. However, it is essential to approach the process with caution and proper guidance to avoid potential challenges that can arise due to uncontrolled energy movements.
Importance of a Guru: In both Kriya Yoga and Kundalini traditions, the role of a qualified and experienced guru (spiritual teacher) is considered crucial. A guru guides the practitioner through the awakening process, ensures the safe and balanced progression of Kundalini energy, and provides insights into the spiritual journey.
Conclusion:
Kriya Yoga is a profound spiritual practice with a rich history that has influenced countless lives around the world. From its ancient roots to its contemporary popularity, Kriya Yoga continues to offer a transformative path for seekers in pursuit of spiritual growth and self-realization. With its numerous benefits for the mind, body, and spirit, Kriya Yoga stands as a timeless and powerful method to attain inner peace, self-awareness, and unity with the divine.
As with any profound spiritual practice, it is recommended to approach Kriya Yoga and Kundalini awakening with mindfulness, respect, and guidance from experienced teachers to ensure a safe and transformative journey. If you are interested in learning Kriyas or have already awakened Kundalini and need some guidance and support then get in touch by emailing carla@carla-yoga.com
