29/06/2024
The word kriya comes from the Sanskrit root ' kri ' which means action, and yoga means union, so the action which helps in spiritual union is called as kriya yoga.
Kriya Yoga is a spiritual practice that encompasses a set of techniques aimed at spiritual advancement and self-realization. It's often associated with Paramahansa Yogananda and his organization, Self-Realization Fellowship. Kriya Yoga involves various meditation practices, pranayama (breathing exercises), and specific mental techniques designed to accelerate spiritual growth. It's known for its systematic approach to calming the mind, cultivating inner peace, and deepening self-awareness.
Kriya yoga as per patanjali
Kriya Yoga as per Patanjali refers to a specific aspect of yoga outlined in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, a foundational text of classical yoga philosophy. In the Yoga Sutras, Kriya Yoga is described as a path of yoga that consists of three main components:
Tapas (austerity or discipline): Refers to the practice of self-discipline, austerity, or effort. It involves cultivating the ability to resist distractions and maintain focus on spiritual goals.
Svadhyaya (self-study or study of scriptures): Involves the study of oneself and introspection, as well as the study of sacred texts. It encompasses both self-reflection and the study of spiritual teachings to deepen understanding.
Ishvara Pranidhana (devotion to the Lord): This component emphasizes surrender to a higher power or the divine. It involves cultivating a sense of humility, devotion, and surrender to the ultimate reality or divine consciousness.
These three practices—Tapas, Svadhyaya, and Ishvara Pranidhana—are collectively referred to as Kriya Yoga according to Patanjali. They are considered foundational practices that purify the mind and cultivate the necessary qualities for progressing on the path of yoga and spiritual realization.
How to practice-
1)Tapas - pranayama - Anulom vilom
Rules for Anulom vilom
1) Increase the duration
2) Increase the depth of prana
3) Reduce the force
2)Svadhyaya- om chanting
Rules for om chanting -
1)Varaha Upanishad says, "Tailadharamivacchinnam deergha ghanta ninadavat"
Meaning - should be chanted very smoothly and continuously like smooth fall of oil (without interruption) like a resonance of a (Church) bell
2) Feeling the origin of om from nevel region and reaching to head region. Producing the vibrations.
3)Ishvara Pranidhana-
Gayatri mantra chanting as in the audio
It's Vedic chanting, which creates a specific spiritual vibration within.