Learn about the ancient, secretive practice of kriya yoga, and how you can utilize kriya meditations to achieve balance and spiritual growth.

What is {{name}}?

Kriya yoga is a meditation practice and spiritual path that uses breathing techniques, mantras, and mudras to control the flow of life energy and achieve spiritual growth. It’s an ancient practice that has been handed down from guru to disciple throughout centuries. There is a long tradition of direct initiation in kriya yoga, which is why you won’t find very much information about kriya techniques unless you consult an authorized teacher.

Kriya yoga became well-known in the West through mention of the practice in Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda. He described kriya yoga as an integration of the breath and the mind that purifies the blood and controls the inner flow of life energy, drawing the practitioner closer to self-realization and enlightenment. However, he did not publish details about kriya yoga techniques, and anyone seeking to master the practice must go through a period of preparation and initiation.

Who it’s for

Anyone seeking to achieve self-realization
Anyone looking to relieve stress and calm the mind
Intermediate/Advanced meditators

Who it’s not for

Kriya yoga is for everyone

How it will help you

Accelerates personal growth
Increased ability to concentrate
Brings balance and stability to everyday life
Union with the Divine

How it will not help you

Kriya yoga is for everyone

Enjoy a Free 1-on-1 Session with a Coach!

Receive personalized guidance tailored to your unique fitness goals, live with a dedicated coach—no credit card required.

Claim your free session

Questions about {{name}}

What is Sudarshan Kriya and how is it done?

Sudarshan Kriya is a meditative breathing technique that utilizes the natural rhythm of the breath to focus the mind. Studies have shown that the technique can be effective in treating stress, anxiety, PTSD, depression, substance abuse, and other stress-related issues. Sudarshan Kriya involves four steps, beginning with Ujjayi or “ocean breath,” followed by Bhastrika (“bellows breath”). Then, “om” is chanted three times before the sudarshan kriya is performed—a cyclical practice of breathing that increases in pace from slow, to medium, to fast.

What is Isha kriya yoga?

Isha kriya is a meditation that is designed to connect you with your higher self. The practice is offered in three steps—the first involves slowly breathing in and out, and repeating silently to yourself, “I am not this body” (inhale), and “I am not even this mind” (exhale). The second step requires vocalizing the sound “Aa” as you exhale, repeating this exercise 7 times. Last, meditate silently for 5-6 minutes with your focus between your eyebrows, or on your third eye.

Is kriya yoga good for beginners?

Traditionally, Kriya yoga has not been recommended for beginner meditators, as it can be intense and even uncomfortable. However, every yogi who seeks to learn about kriya yoga must approach the practice with a beginner’s mind, after a period of preparation and initiation.

What is kriya yoga meditation?

Kriya yoga is an ancient meditative practice that combines breathing techniques and energy control to progress further on a path of self-realization. Kriya yoga meditation shares many of the same benefits as other meditation practices, such as relief from stress and anxiety, increased focus and inner enlightenment.

What is a kriya in kundalini yoga?

While kundalini yoga is different than kriya yoga, the word “kriya” is often used in kundalini practice as a term to reference a series of movements and breath patterns. These “kriyas” are designed to create specific changes in the body.

What are some examples of kriya yoga poses?

Very little is known about the specific poses used in traditional kriya yoga, due to its requirement of direct initiation between teacher and student. The few techniques that have been shared with the public are meditative in nature, and do not require asanas (poses).