by Fern Watson
Kriya Yoga is an ancient technique that brings all round development of one’s body, mind, intellect and life. In the age that we currently live in, there is an increasing number of external distractions, pollutants and stressful demands that are not conducive to a healthy and harmonious life. It is clear a system that restores balance and equanimity is needed to cope in todays somewhat abrasive society.
We all want to live comfortably in the home we always carry with us, our body. In order to do so we have to simultaneously develop the mind and intellect. Drive the body and drive the mind, don’t let them drive you; learn to be a master, rather than a slave to your senses, habits and thought patterns. Good health constitutes not only a strong, maintained body but also a positive and controlled mind.
Kriya Yoga is a science that vitalises every cell in the body, stimulating the brain and giving strength. Unhealthy mental impressions held deep in the subconscious are overcome by the practice of Kriya yoga.
There are references to this yoga in the Bhagavad Gita as the science that Krishna taught to Arjuna. It was also known to Patanjali, and to Christ and his disciples. Though lost in the dark ages, it was most recently revived in 1861 by Lahiri Mahasaya who was taught the technique by his Guru Babaji Maharaj. This knowledge has been preserved and passed down a line of enlightened masters to this day.
The beauty of Kriya lies in its simple and easy techniques which allow a practical option for householders with busy schedules. Those who practice the systems of breath control prescribed in Kriya Yoga find it restores lost equilibrium. Strength and youth is felt in the body, memory improves and intellect is enhanced. The technique purifies and cleanses on both physical and energetic levels without need for dietary restrictions.
Whether or not we are conscious of it, each and every one of us are moving towards the same goal. We will eventually realise the futility of external pursuits in order to fulfil the hearts three longings of existence, consciousness and bliss.
In order to fulfil these longings it is necessary to expand the consciousness that resides in every cell of the body and brain. The science of Kriya is the quickest way to clear and stimulate the brain, magnetize the body and saturate its every physical cell with undecaying light. The technique brings brilliance to the mind, and allows one to percieve the divine power latent within. Life can then be experienced in a totally different way.
Kriya can be practiced by anyone irrespective of religion, race, creed, or sex. It may be practiced by any boy or girl above the age of thirteen; even those who have crossed into their seventies or eighties can still derive a good deal of benefit from it. It is an easy, but vitalizing process.
To learn more about Kriya Yoga there is a number of things one can do. “Autobiography of a Yogi” by Paramahansa Yogananda is a wonderful book that was first published in 1950 and has since attracted countless people to the practice of Kriya. It should be easily found in the library. You can also visit the websites below for more information.
In order to learn the authentic technique of Royal Yoga though, one must be initiated either by the current living master Paramahamsa Prajnananandaji or a designated and authorised teacher.