Kriya

Kriya, in Sanskrit, means "action," "deed," or "work." In various Indian spiritual and philosophical traditions, particularly in yoga and Hinduism, the term takes on a more specific meaning. It refers to a set of practices, often physical or mental, designed to achieve a particular outcome, often related to purification, healing, or spiritual development.

In yoga, kriyas are often understood as purification techniques. These can include practices like Neti (nasal cleansing), Dhauti (cleansing of the digestive tract), and Kapalabhati (a breathing technique). The aim of these yogic kriyas is to remove blockages in the body and mind, preparing the practitioner for deeper meditation or spiritual exploration. The concept of Shatkarmas also refers to six main yogic cleansing techniques.

Beyond physical purification, kriyas can also refer to sequences of asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing exercises), and meditation, practiced together as a cohesive unit. These more complex kriyas are often taught by experienced yoga teachers and are designed to address specific energetic patterns or states of being. For example, a kriya might be intended to balance the chakras, increase energy, or induce a state of calm.

In some tantric traditions, kriya refers to ritualistic actions or observances performed to invoke divine energies or achieve specific spiritual goals. This can involve mantras, yantras, and symbolic gestures. Ultimately, the essence of a kriya lies in its intentionality and its purpose to facilitate transformation, whether physical, mental, or spiritual.