What does Kriya Yoga aim at? 

 

Not all of us get to experience the higher spheres of consciousness. Most of us don’t even know that they exist. Why are so many people unhappy in the world? Why are they dissatisfied? Why are some people not even sure of what is lacking in their life?

The very basic reason for any unhappiness or dissatisfaction is our attachment to the material planes of existence. Once we achieve even a glimpse of higher level of consciousness, then our unhappiness and discontent will automatically fade away.

Various systems of yoga- such as Raja Yoga, Kundalini Yoga etc which are popular across the world are all aiming at transcendental states where one starts to unite with one’s inner being. Most of these systems rely on the technique of concentration as a means of withdrawing consciousness from surroundings and directing it inwards within yourself.

Lets understand what is meant by concentration. Concentration implies the focusing of one’s consciousness towards one point, either external or internal and exclude all other subjects and thoughts. Now this is not as easy as it sounds. Our consciousness in connection with our mind has a tendency to move from one point to another. The more we attempt to subjugate the consciousness and make it dwell on one point the more it will wander. Also this process is likely it impose strain on mind resulting in tension and frustration.

After all our consciousness is a never ending stream of thoughts, some of them may seem related to each other and others may seem to be totally unconnected.

Many systems of Yoga teach you to place an external object in front of you or to visualize an internal image and concentrate on it. Although the method is correct it does not address the tendency of mind to wander from one thought to other.

In order to concentrate, a person should be in a completely relaxed state physically and mentally. For most people concentration is a daunting task. If they try to concentrate, they end up suppressing the disturbing thoughts and create more tension in themselves.

Concentration is something that occurs spontaneously in a very deep and relaxed state. A system is necessary which progressively leads a person to deeper states of relaxation until concentration becomes a spontaneous activity of the conscious. This system is called Kriya Yoga.

Aditi is a certified Yoga Instructor for Power Yoga from Akshar Power Yoga. She teaches Hatha yoga, Power Yoga, Meditative Yoga and Yoga Therapy. She has experience in teaching and practicing yoga for about 4 years.