Muni's PlayKriya Yoga (Yoga in Action)
Kriya Yoga (the Yoga of action) represents the preliminary or practical steps of Yoga, as defined in Patanjali Yoga Sutra 2.1. It is designed to prepare the mind for deeper states of concentration and eventual Samadhi.
Components of Kriya Yoga
| Component | Sanskrit | Transliteration | Definition / Practice | Related Sutra |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austerity | तपः | Tapas | Mortification or disciplined practice of controlling the senses and body. | Patanjali Yoga Sutra 2.43 |
| Self-Study | स्वाध्याय | Svādhyāya | Study of scriptures that lead to liberation and repetition of Mantras (Japa). | Patanjali Yoga Sutra 2.44 |
| Dedication | ईश्वरप्रणिधान | Ishwarapraṇidhāna | Surrendering the fruits of all works to Ishwara (the Supreme Lord). | Patanjali Yoga Sutra 2.45 |
Purpose of Kriya Yoga
According to Patanjali Yoga Sutra 2.2, Kriya Yoga is practiced for two primary reasons:
- Cultivating Samādhi (Samādhi-bhāvanārthaḥ): To bring the mind into the state of absorption.
- Attenuating Afflictions (Klesha-tanūkaraṇārthaḥ): To minimize and weaken the five Kleshas (Ignorance, Egoism, etc.).
See also: