Kriya Yoga and Kundalini Yoga are two distinct terms within the philosophical system of Yoga, each with different purposes. Kriya Yoga, a term coined by Paramahamsa Yogananda, author of Autobiography of a Yogi, focuses on achieving spiritual growth by regulating breath through intensive Pranayama sessions. This style of Yoga represents the method advocated by Yogananda and illustrates the various levels of Pranayama.
Key Takeaways
- Kriya Yoga aims for spiritual growth through regulated breathing and Pranayama sessions.
- Kundalini Yoga seeks to develop the purity of mind and body, leading to spiritual absorption, and is often referred to as the Yoga of awareness.
- While sage Patanjali, the founder of the Yoga system of philosophy, did not discuss Kriya Yoga or Kundalini Yoga specifically, he mainly emphasized Raja Yoga as a means to attain the highest state of bliss.
Kundalini Yoga, on the other hand, focuses on developing the purity of both the mind and body, leading to a state of spiritual absorption. This type of Yoga can be practiced through meditation techniques. Often referred to as the Yoga of awareness, Kundalini Yoga improves aspects of human consciousness, intuition, and self-knowledge, revealing the unlimited potential within each individual. This practice aims to activate the Kundalini Shakti in every person, resulting in the attainment of spiritual powers and a heightened ability to serve others, bringing practitioners closer to God.
Interestingly, sage Patanjali, the founder of the Yoga system of philosophy, did not specifically discuss Kriya Yoga or Kundalini Yoga in his teachings. Instead, he primarily focused on the practice of Raja Yoga as a means to attain the highest state of bliss. Kundalini Yoga also shares this ultimate goal of achieving the highest state of bliss. These are some of the key differences between Kriya Yoga and Kundalini Yoga.
