Ananda teaches Kriya Yoga as a comprehensive spiritual path – which includes meditation techniques, discipleship, and study of the teachings of Paramhansa Yogananda and Swami Kriyananda. Yogananda taught four central techniques on the path of Kriya Yoga. The four work together to maximize the effectiveness of the Kriya technique.
Also fundamental to successful practice of Kriya is the understanding and experience of discipleship. The power of the Kriya technique comes through the blessings of the Guru.
We are noticing that some sincere seekers, after reading about Kriya in Autobiography of a Yogi, decide to see if the Kriya technique is now available online, which it is. This is unfortunate. As Yogananda says in the Autobiography:
“Because of certain ancient yogic injunctions, I cannot give a full explanation of Kriya Yoga in the pages of a book intended for the general public. The actual technique must be learned from a Kriyaban or Kriya Yogi; here a broad reference must suffice.”Paramhansa Yogananda
In Autobiography of a Yogi we also have the example of how Kriya Yoga was first introduced in this modern age. It was given through a sacred initiation. This tradition is carried on even today.
Kriya is not a “magic pill” that involves simply following a technique. The depth of Kriya comes from careful preparation, using the techniques given by Yogananda, as well as a deep understanding of the attitudes of discipleship and willingness to attune with the Guru.
We have seen that when people practice Kriya without proper instruction, they often practice this subtle technique incorrectly and don’t gain the benefits. If people practice without trying to attune to the Guru’s grace, again, they don’t feel the full results and often lose interest in the practice. By preparing more completely, people usually embark on a lifelong commitment.
Swami Kriyananda has said, “I’ve seen that people who try to do the path on their own, ‘going directly’ to Master, don’t show the same purity and depth as those who connect with the direct disciples of the Guru.”
Kriya is a technique that works with our inner energies. Our nervous system needs to be properly prepared for it—not only in terms of outward practices, but especially in terms of the right understanding, humility, and devotion in our attunement to the Guru. These are subtle qualities that take time to develop.
Preparation for Kriya Initiation
Over the years, Ananda has helped thousands of truth seekers around the world prepare for initiation into Kriya Yoga. We’ve seen that the practice of Kriya is infinitely more effective after the proper preparation and study of the Kriya teachings.
This process takes about a year, but also depends on each individual. How quickly a person moves forward with the material depends on personal interest and life circumstances. The instructors work with each individual, according to their needs and realities.
