Before we talk about Kriya Yoga Meditation, let’s first define Yoga as a broader topic. Yoga, an ancient Indian tradition, is more than just a series of postures or breathing exercises. It is a deep and intricate philosophy that seeks to bring about a union of the body, mind, and soul. One particular branch of yoga that has gained prominence in recent years for its deep spiritual and philosophical foundations is Kriya Yoga. Let’s delve into the rich tapestry of Kriya Yoga and its underpinnings.
Historical roots of Kriya Yoga meditation
Kriya Yoga traces its roots back to ancient India, as detailed in the revered text, the Bhagavad Gita. Later, it was reintroduced to the modern world by the great Indian yogi Paramahansa Yogananda, particularly through his seminal work, “Autobiography of a Yogi”. Yogananda’s teachings elucidated the profound depths of Kriya Yoga, making it accessible to spiritual seekers globally.
Philosophical foundations of Kriya Yoga meditation
The term ‘Kriya’ is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Kri’, meaning ‘to do’ or ‘action’. Kriya Yoga, thus, is a union (yoga) through action. But what kind of action? It’s not just any physical movement, but rather, a series of refined techniques aimed at accelerating one’s spiritual evolution.
- Self-Realisation: Central to Kriya Yoga’s philosophy is the idea of Self-realisation, the notion of understanding one’s true nature beyond the physical, emotional, and mental selves. Through dedicated practice, one strives to realise the divine self or Atman, the pure consciousness that resides within all beings.
- The Subtle Energies: Kriya Yoga recognises the existence of the ‘subtle body’ – a layer of energy that coexists alongside our physical body. Through certain techniques, practitioners aim to harness and refine these energies, bringing about spiritual growth.
- Balancing Dualities: A significant philosophical tenet of Kriya Yoga is the harmonisation of dualities. Whether it’s the balance between ida and pingala (the two primary energy channels in yogic thought), or the harmonising of the mind’s tendencies, Kriya Yoga seeks equilibrium, creating a conducive environment for spiritual awakening.
Spiritual foundations of Kriya Yoga meditation
Kriya Yoga is grounded in deep spiritual practices. The techniques are not merely physical exercises but are, instead, pathways to the divine.
- Meditation: Kriya Yoga places strong emphasis on meditation, particularly techniques that focus on the spine and the deep-seated energy centres or ‘chakras’. By activating these centres, one can tap into higher states of consciousness.
- Breath Control (Pranayama): Breath, or ‘prana’, is considered the life force in many Eastern philosophies. Kriya Yoga includes specific pranayama techniques designed to control and harness this energy, leading to spiritual awakening.
- Dedication and Devotion: Like many spiritual paths, Kriya Yoga stresses the importance of dedication, discipline, and devotion. It’s not merely a practice to be done in isolation but a way of life, seeking a deeper connection with the divine.
In Summary
Kriya Yoga Meditation, deeply rooted in ancient Indian philosophy, offers a transformative journey towards spiritual awakening and self-realisation. It’s not merely a set of physical exercises but a harmonisation of body, mind, and soul, guiding practitioners to tap into the profound depths of their inner being. Through its structured techniques, like meditation and pranayama, Kriya Yoga harnesses the subtle energies, aligning one’s self with the universal consciousness. More than just a practice, it is a dedicated way of life, beckoning individuals to find balance, purpose, and a deeper connection with the divine. For those seeking more than just physical well-being, Kriya Yoga provides a pathway to the profound mysteries of existence, promising inner peace and clarity. It stands as a testament to the timeless wisdom of ancient sages, relevant as ever in today’s world.
Learn Kriya Yoga
At Bhakti Marga, we provide diverse yoga and meditation sessions. One such program is Atma Kriya Yoga, an all-encompassing spiritual regimen that covers asana, mudra, pranayama, meditation, and mantra. The intent of this course is to rejuvenate the energetic essence, activate the Kundalini, and steer individuals towards self-discovery. Atma Kriya Yoga nurtures a deep, loving connection with the Divine. Curious? We invite you to participate in our no-cost online Atma Kriya Yoga class.