The Secrets Behind Kriya Yoga That You Should Know

By Oke Manueli

The appearance of Kriya yoga is tributary to a combination of yoga styles such as Bhakti, Jnana and Raja. The word kriya describes effort or transformation. Kriya yoga was introduced to the modern world by master Lahiri Mahasaya during the 19th century. Nevertheless, Kriya yoga is, according to some scriptures, much older than that.

It is said to appear in the Bhagavad-Gita which is considered to be more than 3000 years old. The practice of Kriya yoga demands a daily program of self-discipline of the mind and the body, and, most important than everything, a devotion to God. In order for a student to learn how to do this technique, the presence of a guru is a must-meet condition.

Kriya yoga can influence the existence of people in search of a deeper, more spiritual relationship with their essence. This style of yoga is kundalini oriented and, it involves a meditation technique theorized by a series of esoteric principles. Nevertheless, the stress falls onto the power within oneself and the necessity to be guided by an initiate on the journey inside. There are several goals identifiable in Kriya yoga, among which the breaking of the separation line between mind and body.

An analysis of the three styles that meet in Kriya yoga is necessary for an understanding of the history and underlying principles of the practice. Thus, Karma yoga focuses on the movement of the soul between inside and outside of the mind; Jnana yoga aims at conquering wisdom, liberating mind through knowledge, while Bhakti yoga focuses on love, and how it allows one to come to terms with everything around oneself. By the combined mechanisms of these principles mind and soul purity are achieved. Consequently, Kriya yoga practitioners believe they can achieve self-fulfillment this way rather than follow other disciplines.

There are some stages to go through before practicing Kriya yoga. First of all, the body needs to be ready, and Hatha yoga exercises are integrated in the practice for this very purpose. Then, the mind needs preparation too. Mantras are taught in Kriya yoga techniques in order to enhance the meditative experience. It is said in Bhagavad-Gita that the aim of one who practices Kriya yoga is to accomplish the Supreme Goal (Samahdi), by withdrawing from the external phenomena, by controlling one's sensory mind and intellect, and by banishing desire, fear and anger. - 31856

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