{"id":65703,"date":"2024-09-27T09:13:31","date_gmt":"2024-09-27T09:13:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/?p=65703"},"modified":"2024-09-27T09:13:31","modified_gmt":"2024-09-27T09:13:31","slug":"kriya-yoga","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/","title":{"rendered":"Kriya Yoga: A Journey to Spiritual Enlightenment"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_75 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/#What_Is_Kriya_Yoga\" >What Is Kriya Yoga?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/#The_Origins_of_Kriya_Yoga\" >The Origins of Kriya Yoga<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/#The_Philosophy_of_Kriya_Yoga\" >The Philosophy of Kriya Yoga<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/#How_to_Practice_Kriya_Yoga\" >How to Practice Kriya Yoga<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/#Hong_Sau_Technique\" >Hong Sau Technique<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/#Aum_Technique\" >Aum Technique<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/#Energization_Exercises\" >Energization Exercises<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/#Kriya_Yoga_Technique\" >Kriya Yoga Technique<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/#The_Benefits_of_Kriya_Yoga\" >The Benefits of Kriya Yoga<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/#1_Inner_Peace\" >1. Inner Peace<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/#2_Improved_Concentration\" >2. Improved Concentration<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/#3_Emotional_Balance\" >3. Emotional Balance<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/#4_Better_Relationships_with_Others\" >4. Better Relationships with Others<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/#5_Spiritual_Growth\" >5. Spiritual Growth<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/#6_Better_Stress_Management\" >6. Better Stress Management<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/#Challenges_and_Tips_for_Practicing_Kriya_Yoga\" >Challenges and Tips for Practicing Kriya Yoga<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/#FAQs\" >FAQs<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/#What_is_the_best_way_to_start_practicing_Kriya_yoga\" >What is the best way to start practicing Kriya yoga?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/#Can_anyone_practice_Kriya_yoga\" >Can anyone practice Kriya yoga?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/#How_does_Kriya_yoga_differ_from_other_forms_of_yoga\" >How does Kriya yoga differ from other forms of yoga?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/#What_should_I_expect_from_a_Kriya_yoga_session\" >What should I expect from a Kriya yoga session?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/#How_often_should_I_practice_Kriya_yoga\" >How often should I practice Kriya yoga?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/#The_Bottom_Line\" >The Bottom Line<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kriya yoga is &#8220;especially suited to the modern age because it does not ask anyone to believe dogmatically, but rather by practice of the proven techniques of Kriya Yoga to discover by personal realization the answer to the eternal question, \u2018What is truth?\u2019 \u2014 about oneself and God.&#8221;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These words from Paramhansa Yogananda, the father of Kriya yoga in the West, encapsulate the essence of this powerful spiritual practice (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/yssofindia.org\/programmes\/kriya-yoga\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2160&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Kriya_Yoga\" target=\"_blank\"><video autoplay=\"autoplay\" loop=\"loop\" muted=\"muted\" playsinline=\"playsinline\" width=\"777\"><source src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/ezgif.com-gif-to-mp4-1-2.mp4\" type=\"video\/mp4\" \/><\/video><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">He describes Kriya yoga as a practical, experiential path to understanding the ultimate truth of ourselves and our relationship with God. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">He compares it to a science, in which you perform experiments on yourself through meditation and breathing techniques to discover the truth for yourself. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">He contrasts it with other religions and spiritual practices that require blind faith, stating that Kriya yoga doesn\u2019t ask anyone to believe blindly, but to experience and realize for oneself.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here&#8217;s what you need to know about Kriya yoga and how you can start practicing it.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_Kriya_Yoga\"><\/span><b>What Is Kriya Yoga?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kriya yoga is an ancient spiritual practice that originated in India thousands of years ago. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The word &#8220;kriya&#8221; means action, movement, or effort, and &#8220;yoga&#8221; means union or connection. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Therefore, Kriya yoga can be translated as &#8220;the union achieved through action or effort&#8221;. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is a path to self-realization and God-realization through the use of specific techniques, mainly focused on breath control and meditation (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.kriya.org\/kriya-yoga\/en\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2160&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Kriya_Yoga\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-63092 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/10-4-1024x576.png\" alt=\"Kriya Yoga\" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/10-4.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/10-4-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/10-4.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/10-4-1636x920.png 1636w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Origins_of_Kriya_Yoga\"><\/span><b>The Origins of Kriya Yoga<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kriya yoga was first taught by the great sage Babaji to his disciple Lahiri Mahasaya in the 19th century. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lahiri then passed on this knowledge to his disciple, Swami Sri Yukteswar Giri, who taught it to Paramhansa Yogananda (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/yssofindia.org\/programmes\/kriya-yoga\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yogananda is credited with bringing Kriya yoga to the West through his popular book <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Autobiography of a Yogi<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and his teachings (<\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/yogananda\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/slow-flow-yoga\/\">Slow Flow Yoga for Beginners: A Mindful, Gentle Practice<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Philosophy_of_Kriya_Yoga\"><\/span><b>The Philosophy of Kriya Yoga<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kriya yoga is based on the ancient Vedic teachings and draws from the principles of Raja yoga, Bhakti yoga, and Jnana yoga. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Its philosophy is focused on the belief that our true nature is divine and that we can achieve union with God through self-realization (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/yogananda.org\/kriya-yoga-path-of-meditation-history\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The practice also emphasizes the importance of living a balanced life, incorporating both spiritual and material aspects. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In the dark ages, this practice was reserved for advanced yogis and sages who relinquished worldly attachments to dedicate their lives to spiritual pursuits.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, Yogananda believed that Kriya yoga could be beneficial for anyone in the modern world, regardless of their lifestyle or belief system.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2160&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Kriya_Yoga\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-62996 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/15-4-1024x576.png\" alt=\"Kriya Yoga\" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/15-4.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/15-4-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/15-4.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/15-4-1636x920.png 1636w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Practice_Kriya_Yoga\"><\/span><b>How to Practice Kriya Yoga<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The cornerstone of Kriya yoga is the practice of pranayama, or life-force control. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Through specific techniques, you can calm and focus the mind, purify the body, and ultimately awaken the inner spiritual energy (known as kundalini) that leads to self-realization. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The idea is to achieve inner stillness, despite the constant fluctuations of the external world.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The four main techniques of Kriya yoga are:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Hong-Sau technique <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2013 redirecting thoughts and energy from outward distractions to attain inner peace and tranquility (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ananda.org\/meditation\/meditation-support\/meditation-techniques\/the-hong-sau-technique-of-concentration\/an-overview-of-hong-sau-and-its-advanced-phases\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Aum technique<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 using the power of sound vibration to awaken spiritual consciousness (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.paramhansayogananda.com\/home\/kriya-yoga\/aum-technique\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Energization exercises<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 a series of physical, mental, and spiritual exercises that are designed to increase energy flow throughout the body (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ananda.org\/meditation\/meditation-support\/meditation-techniques\/the-energization-exercises-of-paramhansa-yogananda\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Kriya technique<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 a more advanced meditation practice that helps awaken kundalini energy and achieve higher states of consciousness (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/yssofindia.org\/programmes\/kriya-yoga\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2160&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Kriya_Yoga\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-62795 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/3-3-1024x576.png\" alt=\"Kriya Yoga\" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/3-3.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/3-3-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/3-3.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/3-3-1636x920.png 1636w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Hong_Sau_Technique\"><\/span><b>Hong Sau Technique<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hong means &#8220;I am&#8221; and Sau means &#8220;spirit&#8221;. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Hong-Sau technique involves mentally repeating the phrase &#8220;Hong-Sau&#8221; with each inhalation and exhalation. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This helps redirect the mind from external distractions and focus on your own inner spirit.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At its core, the Hong Sau technique aims to quiet the bustling chatter of the mind. It&#8217;s about redirecting thoughts from the myriad distractions of daily life to achieve a state of inner calm and clarity (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ananda.org\/meditation\/meditation-support\/meditation-techniques\/the-hong-sau-technique-of-concentration\/an-overview-of-hong-sau-and-its-advanced-phases\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This technique is particularly beneficial for those who are looking to problem solve, increase focus, and cultivate inner peace.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Practicing the Hong Sau technique involves a series of simple, mindful steps:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Find Your Center<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Start by sitting comfortably with your spine straight. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths to settle in.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Focus on the Breath<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Bring your attention to your natural breathing rhythm. Don\u2019t force it\u2014just observe.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Use the Mantra<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: As you inhale, mentally chant &#8220;Hong&#8221;, and as you exhale, chant &#8220;Sau&#8221;. These sacred syllables help anchor your mind to the breath.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Stay Present<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Whenever you notice your mind wandering, gently bring your focus back to the breath and the mantra.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Practice Patience<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Even if it feels challenging at first, maintain a gentle persistence. Over time, you&#8217;ll find it easier to maintain focus.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Aum_Technique\"><\/span><b>Aum Technique<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Aum technique is a powerful meditation practice that uses sound vibrations to awaken inner spiritual consciousness (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.paramhansayogananda.com\/home\/kriya-yoga\/aum-technique\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Typically, the practitioner will chant the sacred syllable &#8220;Aum&#8221; (also spelled &#8220;Om&#8221;) repeatedly until it becomes a constant hum in their mind. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This humming vibration helps to quiet the mind and bring about a sense of union with all creation.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It can also lead to deeper states of meditation, where you can experience the divine presence within and beyond yourself (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.paramhansayogananda.com\/home\/kriya-yoga\/aum-technique\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Practicing the Aum technique involves deep concentration and listening:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Prepare Your Space<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Find a quiet place where you won&#8217;t be disturbed. Sit comfortably with your spine straight.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Calm Your Mind<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Start with deep breathing or practice the Hong Sau technique to achieve a state of calmness and focus.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Listen Inwardly<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Close your eyes and focus on the inner sounds. You may initially hear your heartbeat or the sound of your breath. Gradually, try to tune into the subtle sound of Aum within.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Stay Present<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Let your mind rest on this sound. If your thoughts wander, gently bring your focus back to the sound of Aum.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Deepen the Experience<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: With practice, the sound of Aum will become clearer, leading to a deeper sense of peace and connection.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Energization_Exercises\"><\/span><b>Energization Exercises<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Developed by Paramhansa Yogananda, the energization exercises of Kriya yoga are a series of physical, mental, and spiritual exercises that help increase energy flow throughout the body (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ananda.org\/meditation\/meditation-support\/meditation-techniques\/the-energization-exercises-of-paramhansa-yogananda\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These exercises aim to help you gain control over your subtle energy, or prana. They teach you to consciously draw cosmic energy into the body and direct it to specific areas.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This process revitalizes the body, sharpens mental focus, and cultivates a positive mindset. These exercises are designed to prepare your body and mind for deeper meditation and spiritual growth (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ananda.org\/meditation\/meditation-support\/meditation-techniques\/the-energization-exercises-of-paramhansa-yogananda\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Want to spring-clean your diet, skyrocket your self-confidence, and shatter your insecurities? <a class=\"in-cell-link\" href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2160&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Kriya_Yoga\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Check out the BetterMe: Health Coaching app<\/a> and set this plan in motion!<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The full set of Energization Exercises consists of 39 individual movements. Here&#8217;s a simplified version to start with:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Focus and Willpower<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Start by using your will to tense a specific body part, directing energy there. Then relax that body part completely and feel the life force flowing within.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Tensing and Relaxing<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Gradually tense and relax from low to high tension, then back to low. This trains you to control the flow of energy.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Double Breathing<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: For certain exercises, use double breathing\u2014inhale sharply through the nose, followed by a long inhalation, then exhale through the mouth and nose in the same pattern. This helps detoxify and oxygenate the blood.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Isolation<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Focus on tensing only the specific body parts you&#8217;re working on, enhancing concentration and control.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These exercises can be completed in approximately 10-15 minutes once you\u2019re familiar with them. They&#8217;re best practiced before meditation but can also be done at other times to recharge your energy.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2160&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Kriya_Yoga\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-61677 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/8-1024x576.png\" alt=\"BetterMe\" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/8.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/8-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/8.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/8-1636x920.png 1636w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Kriya_Yoga_Technique\"><\/span><b>Kriya Yoga Technique<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Kriya yoga technique is a more advanced meditation practice that directly works with the subtle energies of the body, aiming to awaken kundalini energy and achieve higher states of consciousness (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/yssofindia.org\/programmes\/kriya-yoga\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It involves a specific sequence of breathwork, visualization, and mantra repetition directed at various energy centers in the body.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This technique helps purify and balance the physical, emotional, and mental bodies, clearing any blockages that may hinder spiritual growth. It also leads to intense stillness and clarity of mind (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/yssofindia.org\/programmes\/kriya-yoga\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kriya yoga should only be practiced under the guidance of an experienced teacher who has been authorized by an established lineage.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It isn\u2019t recommended for beginners as it requires a certain level of physical, emotional, and mental readiness.\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, for those ready to embark on this path, Kriya yoga can be a powerful tool for spiritual transformation and awakening. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s said that the regular practice of Kriya yoga can lead to complete liberation from the cycle of birth and death.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Benefits_of_Kriya_Yoga\"><\/span><b>The Benefits of Kriya Yoga<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Regularly practicing Kriya yoga can unlock multiple benefits for the body and mind. These benefits aren&#8217;t instant; they unfold gradually with consistent practice. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Specific research on Kriya yoga is limited, but studies on other forms of yoga and <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-meditation\/\">meditation<\/a> have shown potential benefits (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC3193654\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">7<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). There are also anecdotal evidence and personal experiences that attest to the positive effects of Kriya yoga, including:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Inner_Peace\"><\/span><b>1. Inner Peace<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Day-to-day life can feel relentlessly chaotic. This is particularly true in an age where capitalism and consumerism dictate your daily schedule.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The hyperconnected world we live in often leaves us feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from ourselves. Kriya yoga helps quiet the mind, dissolve <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/stress-awareness-month\/\">stress<\/a>, and cultivate inner peace amidst external chaos (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/yogananda.org\/kriya-yoga-path-of-meditation-benefits\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">8<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Improved_Concentration\"><\/span><b>2. Improved Concentration<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kriya yoga teaches you to focus your attention on specific energy centers in the body while holding specific breath patterns. This intense concentration can help improve overall focus, which makes it easier to concentrate on work and other tasks (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/magazines.odisha.gov.in\/Orissareview\/2019\/Nov\/engpdf\/85-89.pdf\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">9<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Emotional_Balance\"><\/span><b>3. Emotional Balance<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Through <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/somatic-breathwork\/\">breathwork<\/a>, visualization, and mantra repetition, Kriya yoga helps balance emotions and create a more positive mindset. This can be particularly beneficial for those who are struggling with anxiety or depression (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC8079176\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/chair-yoga-plan\/\">28-Day Chair Yoga Plan: Build A Healthy Habit With These 10 Chair Yoga Poses<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Better_Relationships_with_Others\"><\/span><b>4. Better Relationships with Others<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As Kriya yoga helps cultivate inner peace, emotional balance, and improved concentration, it can also lead to better relationships with others. You may find yourself more patient, understanding, and compassionate toward those around you.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Spiritual_Growth\"><\/span><b>5. Spiritual Growth<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The ultimate goal of Kriya yoga is spiritual evolution and union with the divine. Regular practice can bring about a deeper sense of connection with yourself and all creation. It can also lead to profound insights and realizations regarding the nature of existence (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/magazines.odisha.gov.in\/Orissareview\/2019\/Nov\/engpdf\/85-89.pdf\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">9<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Better_Stress_Management\"><\/span><b>6. Better Stress Management<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stress is linked to numerous physical and mental health issues. Poor stress management can lead to weight gain, high blood pressure, heart disease, depression, and more. Kriya yoga teaches you how to quiet the mind and release tension from the body, which makes it a powerful tool for stress management. By extension, this can also lead to improved physical and mental health (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/journals.lww.com\/indianjpsychiatry\/fulltext\/2024\/66070\/quantitative_eeg_correlates_of__kriya_yoga_.8.aspx\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">11<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2160&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Kriya_Yoga\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-61565 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/5-3-1024x576.png\" alt=\"Kriya Yoga\" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/5-3.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/5-3-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/5-3.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/5-3-1636x920.png 1636w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Challenges_and_Tips_for_Practicing_Kriya_Yoga\"><\/span><b>Challenges and Tips for Practicing Kriya Yoga<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As with any other spiritual practice, Kriya yoga comes with its own set of challenges. These can include physical discomfort, resistance from the mind, or difficulty finding a regular routine. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A common challenge for many is finding information about this ancient practice. Kriya isn&#8217;t as accessible as other forms of <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/yoga-chair-exercises-2\/\">yoga<\/a> and finding a qualified teacher can be quite challenging.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re interested in exploring Kriya yoga, here are a few tips to help you get started:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Research the practice and its lineage thoroughly before you start.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Find an experienced and authorized teacher to guide you.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Start with simple techniques and gradually work your way up to more advanced practices.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Have realistic expectations and be patient with yourself; spiritual growth takes time.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Practice regularly, even if it&#8217;s just for a few minutes each day.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Listen to your body and mind &#8211; if something doesn&#8217;t feel right, adjust or take a break.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2160&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Kriya_Yoga\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-61549 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/2-2-1-1024x576.png\" alt=\"Kriya Yoga\" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/2-2-1.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/2-2-1-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/2-2-1.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/2-2-1-1636x920.png 1636w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs\"><\/span><b>FAQs<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2><ul><li><h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_best_way_to_start_practicing_Kriya_yoga\"><\/span><strong>What is the best way to start practicing Kriya yoga?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The best way to start practicing Kriya yoga is by enrolling in a structured course that is offered by certified organizations. These courses provide comprehensive lessons that include preliminary practices, such as the Energization Exercises, and guidance on the foundational meditation techniques. It&#8217;s important to receive proper initiation from a qualified teacher to ensure you practice the techniques correctly and safely.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li><h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_anyone_practice_Kriya_yoga\"><\/span><strong>Can anyone practice Kriya yoga?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, anyone with sincere interest and dedication can practice Kriya yoga. It&#8217;s suitable for individuals of all ages and backgrounds. However, it requires a commitment to regular practice and an openness to spiritual growth. Beginners are encouraged to start with basic meditation practices and gradually progress to more advanced techniques as they become ready.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li><h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_does_Kriya_yoga_differ_from_other_forms_of_yoga\"><\/span><strong>How does Kriya yoga differ from other forms of yoga?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kriya yoga is distinct from other forms of yoga due to its emphasis on pranayama, or life-force control. Unlike many yoga styles that focus primarily on physical postures, Kriya yoga concentrates on the movement of energy through the spine and brain to accelerate spiritual growth. It integrates meditation, breath control, and energy awareness to harmonize the mind, body, and spirit.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li><h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_should_I_expect_from_a_Kriya_yoga_session\"><\/span><strong>What should I expect from a Kriya yoga session?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In a Kriya yoga session, you can expect a combination of preliminary exercises, focused breathing techniques, and deep meditation. The session usually starts with the Energization Exercises to prepare the body, followed by specific pranayama practices that help direct energy within. The primary goal is to achieve a state of inner stillness and heightened awareness, fostering a deeper connection with the soul.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li><h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_often_should_I_practice_Kriya_yoga\"><\/span><strong>How often should I practice Kriya yoga?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s recommended to practice Kriya yoga daily. Regular practice helps cultivate consistency and depth in meditation, which facilitates spiritual progress. Devotees often practice twice a day, in the morning and evening, to maintain a balanced and mindful state throughout the day.<\/span><\/p>\n\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated-gender?flow=2160&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Kriya_Yoga\" target=\"_blank\"><video autoplay=\"autoplay\" loop=\"loop\" muted=\"muted\" playsinline=\"playsinline\" width=\"777\"><source src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/ezgif.com-gif-to-mp4-1-2.mp4\" type=\"video\/mp4\" \/><\/video><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Bottom_Line\"><\/span><b>The Bottom Line<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kriya yoga is a powerful and transformative spiritual practice that can lead you to discover the truth about yourself and your connection with God.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It doesn\u2019t require blind faith or adherence to any specific religion and allows individuals to experience and realize their own truth through dedicated practice.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re seeking a practical, experiential path to self-realization, Kriya yoga may be worth exploring.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Kriya yoga is &#8220;especially suited to the modern age because it does not ask anyone to believe dogmatically, but rather by practice of the proven techniques of Kriya Yoga to discover by personal realization the answer to the eternal question, \u2018What is truth?\u2019 \u2014 about oneself and God.&#8221; These words from Paramhansa Yogananda, the father [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":51,"featured_media":65744,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[203],"tags":[],"coauthors":[125,221],"class_list":["post-65703","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-chair-yoga"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v20.2.1 (Yoast SEO v25.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Kriya Yoga: A Journey to Spiritual Enlightenment - BetterMe<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"\u2605 KRIYA YOGA \u27a4 is a powerful spiritual practice that can help you achieve physical, mental, and emotional balance. Find out more about its benefits and challenges in this guide.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Kriya Yoga: A Journey to Spiritual Enlightenment\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"\u2605 KRIYA YOGA \u27a4 is a powerful spiritual practice that can help you achieve physical, mental, and emotional balance. Find out more about its benefits and challenges in this guide.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"BetterMe Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/betterme.health.coaching\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/shutterstock_1543733852-scaled.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"2560\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1706\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Eve Chalicha, Troy Hurst, PT, DPT\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@betterme\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@betterme\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Eve Chalicha, Troy Hurst, PT, DPT\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"11 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Eve Chalicha\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#\/schema\/person\/2dc77d79cc70e1b64bfccc1fee3a46a4\"},\"headline\":\"Kriya Yoga: A Journey to Spiritual Enlightenment\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/\"},\"wordCount\":2074,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/shutterstock_1543733852-scaled.jpg\",\"articleSection\":[\"Chair Yoga\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"articleBody\":\"<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Kriya yoga is \\\"especially suited to the modern age because it does not ask anyone to believe dogmatically, but rather by practice of the proven techniques of Kriya Yoga to discover by personal realization the answer to the eternal question, \u2018What is truth?\u2019 \u2014 about oneself and God.\\\"<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">These words from Paramhansa Yogananda, the father of Kriya yoga in the West, encapsulate the essence of this powerful spiritual practice (<\/span><a href=\\\"https:\/\/yssofindia.org\/programmes\/kriya-yoga\\\"><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">1<\/span><\/a><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">).<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span data-sheets-root=\\\"1\\\"><\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">He describes Kriya yoga as a practical, experiential path to understanding the ultimate truth of ourselves and our relationship with God. <\/span><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">He compares it to a science, in which you perform experiments on yourself through meditation and breathing techniques to discover the truth for yourself. <\/span><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">He contrasts it with other religions and spiritual practices that require blind faith, stating that Kriya yoga doesn\u2019t ask anyone to believe blindly, but to experience and realize for oneself.<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Here's what you need to know about Kriya yoga and how you can start practicing it.<\/span>\\r\\n<h2 style=\\\"text-align: center;\\\"><b>What Is Kriya Yoga?<\/b><\/h2>\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Kriya yoga is an ancient spiritual practice that originated in India thousands of years ago. <\/span><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">The word \\\"kriya\\\" means action, movement, or effort, and \\\"yoga\\\" means union or connection. <\/span><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Therefore, Kriya yoga can be translated as \\\"the union achieved through action or effort\\\". <\/span><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">It is a path to self-realization and God-realization through the use of specific techniques, ...\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/kriya-yoga\/\",\"name\":\"Kriya Yoga: A Journey to Spiritual Enlightenment - 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