What is Kriya Yoga?
Kriya Yoga is an advanced technique for spiritual evolution that has been taught by enlightened sages for thousands of years. It is mentioned by Patanjali in his Sutras and by Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita. Kriya works by giving the practitioner control of the life force. Through life force control, the yogi is able to overcome all the obstacles preventing union with the divine.
According to Paramhansa Yogananda in Autobiography of a Yogi ― Kriya Yoga is the most effective technique for reaching the goal of Self-Realization; Self-Realization is knowing in all parts of body, mind, and soul that you are now in possession of the kingdom of God; that you do not have to pray that it come to you; that God’s omnipresence is your omnipresence; and that all you need to do is improve your knowing.
How to Learn Kriya Yoga as Taught by Paramhansa Yogananda?
Those wanting to learn the advanced Kriya Yoga Meditation techniques need first to develop a regular daily practice of Meditation and the Energization Exercises. Further steps include lessons and courses in discipleship that are available. It typically requires a minimum of 9 months to one year of daily practice of the energization exercises and the Hong-Sau technique before one receives Kriya Initiation.
You can learn all the practices of the path of Kriya Yoga at Ananda Sangha Delhi and at Ananda programs in various locations around India. Through our courses, you will be guided in your preparation for Kriya Yoga Initiation by Ananda Acharyas. Classes are held on a regular basis during the year, the details of which you can find on our Calendar
Learn to Meditate – The Path of Kriya Yoga (Level 1)
Paramhansa Yogananda taught two basic techniques that can be learned and practiced by anyone, of any faith, on any path. The Hong-Sau technique of concentration and Introduction to the Energisation Exercises. This course consists of Two in-person classes with guided meditations, lecture, and Q&A.
The practice of Kriya rests upon a foundation of daily meditation, service and devotion. You will be given tested techniques to still your body, free your mind from restless thoughts and direct your inner awareness upward to subtle spiritual realms within. These practical methods will quickly help you to relax the body and mind, focus your concentration, and expand your consciousness. Learn through direct experience what joy, peace, and deep calmness are really like and discover how quickly, through daily practice, these qualities can be yours in all aspects of your life!
Topics to be covered:
- How to reduce tension and stress at will
- How to concentrate more effectively
- Correct posture
- Introduction to Energisation Exercises
- How to establish a daily routine of sadhana
Starts on Sunday, 12 January 2025
Kriya Yoga Meditation – The Art & Science of Raja Yoga (Level 2)
Based on the book of the same title by Swami Kriyananda, this eight-class series focuses on integrating yogic teachings into daily life. Learn a practical, experiential approach to meditation, yoga philosophy, Energization Exercises, affirmations, diet, healing techniques, and many more.
The key component of this series is the learning of 39 Energization Exercises that were developed by Paramhansa Yogananda. These exercises will give you the ability to recharge your body at will by drawing in cosmic energy from the universe. During the series we will also cover the following topics:
- Principles of Energy, Will & Magnetism
- Overview of Yoga – Bhakti, Gyana, Karma and Raja
- Patanjali‘s Ashtanga Yoga & Yamas and Niyamas
- Affirmations
- Anatomy of Yoga, Chakras
- Applying Yoga Principles in Daily Life
- Signs of Spiritual Progress
- Healing Techniques
- Diet
- Yoga postures
All class will include guided meditation, Energization Exercises, pranayama and group discussion. The textbook for this course is The Art and Science of Raja Yoga by Swami Kriyananda.
Prerequisite: Learn to Meditate – The Path of Kriya Yoga (Level 1)
Kriya Preparation One – Part I
This 3-class series will take you deeper into your spiritual practices. With deepening meditations, we begin to shift our attention from the limited ego to our infinite soul nature. The series aims to cultivate your receptivity and attunement to receive divine grace and inner guidance. You’ll learn the importance of becoming a disciple of life, and also the essential attitudes of the timeless disciple-guru relationship. At the end of this series, those who feel to will have an opportunity to take the step of discipleship to Paramhansa Yogananda and our line of gurus.
Prerequisite: The Art and Science of Raja Yoga – Level 2
Kriya Preparation One – Part II
In this 3-class series, you will learn the AUM Meditation Technique as taught by Paramhansa Yogananda, which is the third technique in the path of Kriya Yoga. It is a tremendously powerful tool of God-realization. Through absorption in AUM, we soon come to realize that the AUM is the bridge between human consciousness and Cosmic Consciousness. You will also have an opportunity to dive deeper into the Chakras.
Prerequisites: Kriya Preparation One – Part 1 and Discipleship Initiation
Kriya Yoga Preparation II: Magnetizing the Spine and Preparing for Kriya (Level 4)
These classes include group sadhana, and deeper discussions about the history, purpose, and benefits of Kriya Yoga – as well as advanced instruction and practice of meditation using specific Kriya preparation techniques that magnetize the spine. The Kriya preparation techniques are practiced before one is eligible for Kriya Yoga initiation.
Prerequisite: Kriya Preparation One – Part 1 and 2, and strong, daily meditation practice
Kriya Initiation
Kriya Yoga Initiation is given in person through Ananda Sangha around India several times a year. After completion of all the previous courses, having established a regular daily spiritual practice using the techniques learned in this series and after receiving approval from a Kriyacharya, you will be able to receive Kriya initiation.
Ananda Sangha offers continued support to all its Kriya initiates through a monthly inspirational newsletter, individual guidance by phone, e-mail, or in person, as well as through guided Kriya meditations and retreats with Ananda Kriyacharyas. We also provide a kriyaban website updated regularly with a library of inspirational articles and streaming videos.
