In Kundalini Yoga, one of the most unique and powerful aspects is the use of kriyas. Unlike traditional yoga practices that focus on individual postures or breathwork, a kriya is a complete, sacred sequence — a set of postures (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama), mantras, and mudras — designed to produce a specific energetic and psychological effect.
The word kriya in Sanskrit means "action" or "completed action." In Kundalini Yoga, a kriya is an intentional combination of actions that guides energy flow, balances the chakras, strengthens the nervous system, and awakens higher states of awareness.
Each kriya acts like a spiritual recipe: when you follow the steps with discipline and devotion, a precise transformation happens within you — whether it's increased vitality, emotional healing, mental clarity, or spiritual elevation.
🌿 The Purpose of Kriyas
Kriyas are not random exercises. They have been passed down through ancient yogic lineages and scientifically structured to:
- Stimulate and balance specific organs, glands, or energy centers
- Cleanse subconscious patterns and emotional blocks
- Build resilience in the nervous system
- Elevate pranic (life-force) flow through the nadis (energy channels)
- Awaken Kundalini energy safely and steadily
In essence, kriyas help you prepare the body and mind for higher consciousness, while also supporting vibrant health and emotional balance.
🧘♀️ What Happens During a Kriya?
A typical kriya may include:
- Dynamic or static postures (asana)
- Rhythmic breath patterns (pranayama)
- Focused hand gestures (mudras)
- Eye focus (drishti)
- Mantra chanting to raise vibration
- Specific timing — each exercise within the kriya often has a set duration
Together, these elements create an energetic alchemy in the body and mind.
Most kriyas end with deep relaxation (savasana) and meditation, allowing the awakened energy to integrate and stabilize.
🕊️ Approaching Kriyas with Respect
Because kriyas work deeply — not just physically but energetically and emotionally — it’s important to:
- Practice them exactly as taught (no random mixing or modifying)
- Honor the timing and sequence
- Build up gradually if you are new to Kundalini Yoga
- Listen to your body, and rest when needed
- Approach each kriya with intention, humility, and trust
Over time, kriyas can transform your entire being — making you stronger, clearer, more vibrant, and more connected to your true Self.