Kriya Yoga and Pranayama

Transcription

1 Naropa University, Traditional Eastern Arts, B.A. Yoga Thesis Kriya Yoga and Pranayama Integration of All Yogas By Krishna Brod Spring 2013

2 Whatsoever exists in the universe is dependent on thee, O Prana. Protect us as a mother protects her children. Grant us prosperity and grant us wisdom. 1 Patanjali tells us Kriya Yoga is, Tapas, Swadhya, Ishvara-pranidhana. Tapas svadhyaya-isvara-pranidhana kriya-yogah 2 Tapas, intense practice, is the engine of the chariot, the driving force behind purification and evolution. Swadhya is inspired by a longing to know, and becomes sacred study of texts and reflective inquiry. Who am I? Ishvara-pranidhana, is the fruit of Yoga, union with the Master. Together, here is a Trinity of ingredients that combine to invite luminous effulgence in the human being. Kriya is based on the Sanskrit root kri, to do, and indicates action with awareness. Kriya Yoga is therefore union (yoga) by action. The word karma is also based on the root kri, and indicates principals of causation and effect. Kriya Yoga is therefore the skillful use of active awareness towards liberation from the chain of karma, enabling union with God. Patanjali used the term Kriya Yoga at least a thousand years ago, and it was brought to contemporary association with Yoga traditions originated by the Himalayan Yogi Babaji Nagaraj, also known as Kriya Babaji. Among them, Lahiri Mahasaya received Kriya Yoga from Babaji in 1861, and he would become the radiant Polestar of Kriya Yoga, following instruction to disseminate transmission to house- holders, who would go on to share Kriya Yoga with the world through a large family tree of lineages. Others have since received darshan and initiation with Babaji, such as Yogi S.A.A. Ramaiah (in 1954), who was guided to found a Kriya Yoga tradition built upon 144 Kriyas, or techniques of Yoga. 3 What is Kriya Yoga? What action with awareness is Kriya Yoga? Yogananda, whose paramguru was Lahiri Mahasaya, tells us in his autobiography, Babaji is ever in communion with Christ; together they send out vibrations of 1 Prasna Upanishad, Prabhavananda and Manchester, Govindan, Kriya Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, 63, Verse II.1. 3 Babaji explained to Yogi Ramaiah of his own familial association with the 18 Siddha Yoga tradition of Tamil Nadu, among whom were his dhyana guru, Boganathar, and his pranayama guru, Agastyar.

3 redemption and have planned the spiritual technique of salvation for this age. 4 The technique Yogananda refers to is pranayama, which means control (yama), of life- force (prana). There are many types of Kriyas or methods, but the central practice of most Kriya Yoga traditions is pranayama. With the same inspiration we pose the profound Self- inquiry, Who am I?, we can collectively ask, Why pranayama? It is the dharma of this literary exploration to examine the central importance of Kriya Kundalini Pranayama in Kriya Yoga traditions. The path to this insight will entail a developing discovery of pranayama as a perfect expression of all other Yogas. There are numerous phases of Yoga presented through out Yoga history. Among the most widely engaged in philosophy and practice are the classical 8 Limbs (Ashtanga) of Patanjali s Kriya Yoga: yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana, and Samadhi. As well, the three primary Yogas of the Bhagavad Gita are Jnana Yoga, Karma Yoga, and Bhakti Yoga. There are also additional phases or classifications of Yoga: Hatha Yoga, Mantra or Japa Yoga, Laya Yoga, and Nada Yoga. And of course there is the term Kundalini Yoga, which refers to a wide variety of traditions and practices. Kriya Babaji himself has described Kriya Yoga, It is the Yoga of service, devotion and knowledge and is essential for Self- realizaiton. It helps and compliments all other yogas. 5 This essay endeavors to illustrate that Kriya Kundalini Pranayama is an entirely whole, integral embodiment of these other (labeled) aspects of Yoga. Breath of Life Breath is the engine of life. It is the golden link that both empowers our consciousness and simultaneously binds our mind to the body. It imbues us with life and animation through three dynamic threads of energy known as gunas: raja/action, tama/inertia, and sattva/balance. Cutting through the gunas or Maya, the field of cosmic universal energies, the breath is our Lifeline to the Divine, the 4 Yogananda, 347. Masters of Kriya Yoga have taught universality of religious faith, offering interpretations of the Bible, suggesting Jesus and his disciples practiced techniques similar to Kriya. 5 Neelakantan, Voice of Babaji, 170.

4 ineffable source of all creation. Breath is the primordial umbilical chord that feeds and nourishes the jivatman inhabiting panchakosha, the five sheaths of the human being. These sheaths or garments range from subtle form to dense physicality, and correspond to respective lokas, spheres or planes of existence. Brahman, Satchidananda, Siva, Christ, etc., the Source of Life, is said among Yoga traditions to be Luminous, Infinite and Unchanging. And within It, our subtle- most body originates, anandamayakosha, the Heart of Purusha. Yogananda s guru, Sri Yukteswar, in his profound work The Holy Science, explains, This Purusha, the Son of God, is screened by five coverings called the koshas or sheaths. The first of these five is Heart, Chitta, the Atom, composed of four ideas(word, time, space, atom), which feels or enjoys, and thus being the seat of bliss, ananda, is called Anandamaya Kosha. 6 From this Light- body of bliss, and its Life in God; Life- force, also known as Prana is inhaled through the koshas, drawn outward > unto the vijnanamayakosha, the luminous mind of buddhi or wisdom > unto manomayakosha, the mind directed unto maya, the creation > unto the pranamayakosha, the etheric vital body that directly sustains > the annamayakosha, the food body, the physical kosha. In this realization, the living experience of breath is commonly drawing energy from within, from inner to outer, from subtle to dense. However, this Ganga, the river of Life that is breath, can be swum upstream towards its Source, even as fish attracted to the flow instinctively trace a river to its headwaters. The mind can turn within upon the breath, and use it as the principal Chariot of awakening and Self- realization. It is the engine of Kriya Yoga, the dynamic force of intense practice, Self- study and Ishvara-pranidhana, union with God. Through breath mastery, both the personal and impersonal aspects of Godhead are realized. Prana is the soul of the universe, assuming all forms; he is the light that animates and illumines all: even as it is written The wise know him who assumes all forms, who is radiant, who is all knowing, who is the one light that gives light to all. He rises as the sun of a thousand rays, and abides in infinite places. 7 6 Yukteswar, Prasna Upanishad, Prabhavananda and Manchester,

5 Ashtanga Yoga The word pranayama itself contains the first limb of Kriya Yoga propounded by Patanjali. Yama means control, discipline, and also represents the deity of death. Mirroring the Ashtanga Yoga of Patanjali, the great Siddha of Chidambaram, Tirumular, presents Siva yoga as such, Yama, Niyama and Asana numberless Pranayama wholesome and Pratyahara alike, Dharana, Dhyana and Samadhi to triumph These eight are the steely limbs of Yoga. 8 The Yamas are five, and govern how a person relates to other beings. Patanjali s version includes, ahimsa, satya, asteya, brahmacharya, and aparigraha; nonviolence, honesty, non- stealing, sexual restraint and ethics, renunciation of greed. Importantly, we learn that the yamas are the cornerstones upon which the entire practice of Yoga is based. There is a definite purpose to the order of the 8 limbs, which are intentionally progressive in a practical course. The sacrifice of the ego, and the awakening to unity of being and purpose, necessitates the arising of compassion and sensitivity towards other beings. This is the primary arena of karma, the cycle of cause and effect (that promotes ignorance), and therefore the yamas are the essential foundation of purification. Further, it is observed that the latter four yamas, namely, satya, asteya, brahmacharya and aparigraha are simply diverse manifestations of the first and primordial yama, Ahimsa. Nonviolence is thus the kumbha, or pot, that holds the entire practice of Yoga. Let it be known, pranayama is a vital empowerment of ahimsa. Desire, the cause of suffering, is grasping for that which is outside of one s person. Becoming whole from within by the practice of pranayama, dispersing waves of desire for other, adds capacity and potential to the practice of ahimsa, an aspiration of pure relationship to other suffering beings. Pranayama purifies and awakens vishuddhi chakra, the throat center, empowering speech and the divine seed potential of word as Satya, or truthfulness. By providing tranquility of the Heart, pranayama purifies Asteya, and the envy that leads to theft. 8 Ganapathy, The Yoga of Tirumular, 69.

6 The task of traditional Brahmacharya, or celibacy, may be too elusive for the average practitioner, but all through the 18 Siddha poetry of Tamil Nadu, there is explicit instruction in kundalini pranayama for channeling and transmuting the ojas of sexual life- force into bindu, spiritual energy, upwards through the nadis and chakras. Pranayama has a wide range of application towards sexuality, and can also be practiced during love- making. Anointing her body with unguents diverse Bedecking her tresses with flowers fragrant Do you enjoy the damsel in passion s union; If you but know how to shoot Prana breath through the Spinal Cavity Your enjoyment never ceases. 9 Another powerful tool of sexual restraint that can be practiced in conjunction with pranayama is the practice of bandha, muscular locks that facilitate consolidation of energy unto specific chakras, centers of light and vibration along the spine that contain unique psychic energies. Release of the bandha/tension causes a deeper relaxation, purification and opening of the chakra. Bandhas provide an integrated energetic support to the practice of sexual control, aligning all five koshas, and grounding vital awareness. Brahmacharya has a wide expression, from celibacy, to restraint during intercourse, to general ethics in sexuality. Whatever the orientation, pranayama is critical for purification and transformation of sexual energies and related karma. Last but not least of the yamas, the ideal of Aparigraha, renunciation, also described as greedlessness, marking the perfection of ahimsa, is made possible by the sustaining power of disciplined pranayama practice, which carries the grace of equipoise unto the mind. The Yogi need not envy and grasp when his mind is immersed in infinite bliss. The Self- realization of unity intrinsic to Kriya Yoga tradition and history is a Communal actualization of ahimsa. Patanjali agrees, This Great Vow is universal, not limited by class, place, time or circumstances. 10 As we will learn more about later, this Yama, the diety of death, is tamed and mastered by 9 Natarajan, Tirumandiram, verse Govindan, Kriya Yoga Sturas of Patanjali, 229, II.31.

7 perfection of pranayama, resulting in divine union, the ultimate realization of ahimsa; which may also be known as Love. 11 The Niyamas are observances made in relation to one s self. Saucha, santosha, tapas, swadhya and ishvara-pranidhana. Patanjali says, Observances (niyamas) consist of purity, contentment, accepting but not causing pain, self- study and surrender to the Lord. 12 Purity refers to cleanliness and health of both mind and body. The intimate relationship of mind and breath, and their often rajasic/active and tamasic/fatigued movements, are made sattvic and still by pranayama, accomplishing purity of mind. This investigation into purity (hygiene) of the body is a good opportunity to study the physiological benefits of Kriya Yoga, thoroughly explained in sacred texts. Paramhamsa Yogananda, the great swan of yoga-bliss, explains in scientific detail, Kriya Yoga is a simple, psycho- physiological method by which human blood is decarbonated and recharged with oxygen. The atoms of this extra oxygen are transmuted into life current to rejuvenate the brain and spinal centers. By stopping the accumulation of venous blood, the yogi is able to lessen or prevent the decay of tissues. The advanced yogi transmutes his cells into energy. Elijah, Jesus, Kabir, and other prophets were past masters in the use of Kriya or a similar technique, by which they caused their bodies to materialize and dematerialize at will. The Yogi arrests decay in the body by securing an additional supply of prana (life force) through quieting the action of the lungs and heart. 13 While this account from Yogananda sounds rational and informed, and by nature supremely optimistic, this divinely inspired text An Autobiography of Yogi was written in the first part of the 20 th century. Medical wisdom has advanced some since then, so for contrast lets look at a more contemporary explanation offered by M.G. Satchidananda, himself a disciplined Kriya Yoga practitioner and scholar. Supplying oxygen to the cells of the body and ridding them of excess carbon dioxide resulting from oxidation are the main purposes of respiration. It also aids in the neutralization of the temperature of the body and the elimination of excess water. Respiration occurs internally and externally. Respiration that takes place in the lungs, with the passage of oxygen from the alveoli to the blood, is known as external respiration and the respiration that takes place in the cells of the body s tissues is known as internal respiration. The Siddha s science of longevity is mainly concerned 11 Nonviolence is Love. 12 Ibid. 229, II Yogananda, Autobiography of a Yogi,

8 with internal respiration. The secret of longevity lies in the technique of diverting the breathing to the subtle channels and centers. 14 (Govindan, Babaji, 154) Here we see Kriya kundalini pranayama as a powerful practice of Saucha/purity, even at the cellular level. Though the claims made in Kriya literature are often grandiose, the hypotheses presented are so dramatically optimistic as to warrant thorough experimentation in quest for corroboration divine. Santosha, contentment is largely made possible by the wellbeing of the body, as physical suffering is a primary deterrent to contentment. Therefore, pranayama as the chief mental and physical support of health and vitality, facilitates santosha: which may be viewed as equanimity and peace, even within all given circumstances of life. Mentally, contentment is a further development and stable integration of saucha; and these two fundamental niyamas, are essential kindling and fuel to the fire of Life. Tapas, intense practice, conveys the heart of Kriya Yoga. Any soul blessed to find it is graced by God. Whereas modern yoga practice has trended towards physical exercise, historically yoga practice has been contemplative in nature, and physical postures were based in stillness. In other words sitting. In this context, tapas largely refers to the discipline of sitting still; which is why Yoga texts such as the Hatha Yoga Pradipika present details of numerous meditation postures. Kriya Yoga traditions share this history of sitting practice, and have empowered the aspirant with breathing methods that are a perfect compliment to meditation. The word tapas has a strong yogic association with fire or Agni; which brings us to this mysterious question of, what exactly is Kundalini Shakti? How can we describe the life force that animates our existence? And why is it that practitioners often relate experiences of warmth and intense heat during yoga practice? Tapas has also been translated as to straighten by fire, which refers to the mystic fire of kundalini shakti, and its ascending course through the human being. M.G. Satchidananda offers more detail on this sublime topic. 14 Govindan, Babaji and the 18 Siddhas Kriya Yoga Tradition, 154.

9 The attributes of immortality are Saka-kal, Vekathalai, and Poka punal, which means the undying air (Vayu), the unburnable Ether (Akasa) and fire (Agni), each operating in the cervical, hypothalamus, and cardiac plexuses respectively. 15 Thus, more generally we use the term life- force or prana to describe living essence which has expression as (subtle) air, ether, and fire. As such, pranayama is the ancient yajna of the Vedas, the sacrifice of self unto God, by way of Agni. Kriya Yoga is the real fire rite oft extolled in the Gita. The Yogi casts his human longings into a monotheistic bonfire consecrated to the unparalleled God. This is indeed the true yogic fire ceremony, in which all past and present desires are fuel consumed by love divine. 16 This being true, where aspiration is lofty towards Divine union and resultant super- conscious evolution, tapas indicates an intense tempering of the jiva s metal. In practical terms, this means the student will be tested, and growth is made possible by initiation challenge and the necessity of overcoming obstacle. This characterizes generally the journey of kundalini awakening. Therefore, consistent practice or tapas is a prerequisite for the awesome transformation of jiva unto Siva. Practice that is not marked by consistency may result in obstacles that require further purification. M.G. Satchidananda elaborates, The 18 Siddhas have referred to kundalini, just awakened and difficult to control, as the goddess Kali Devi. When this kundalini power can be controlled and when it brings peace and beatitude, this has been referred to by the Siddhas as Durga, the beautiful goddess riding the tiger. Kundalini when awakened, manifests itself as creative energy, at different levels of refinement. She is then worshipped in various forms of goddesses: Lakshmi, Parvati, Saraswati and other forms of the Divine Mother. 17 Holding safety as an ideal, abhyasa or constant practice marks the successful attainment of tapas, a key ingredient in the savory recipe of Self- realization. This overall investigation is both scholastic and experiential; which brings us to Swadhya, using study of sacred texts to inspire inquiry and direct Self- knowledge. This very writing process is swadhya, as is the inner reflection inherent to the journey. Although kundalini shakti is often described as latent energy at the 15 Govindan, Babaji and the 18 Siddha Kriya Yoga Tradition, Yogananda, Autobiography of a Yogi, Govindan, Babaji and the 18 Siddha Kriya Yoga Tradition, 162.

10 base of the spine, it is my own experience and belief that kundalini shakti is what we are. It is not just some hidden energy lying dormant, but rather, it is the totality of our life force, mind, and consciousness. The Divine Light within us, and all around us, manifests as kundalini shakti, the coil of individuation. In this respect, it is not viewed as something mysterious or unknown to us. It is our very essence, that living presence we experience consciously every day. It is what empowers and animates our ten indriyas, the five subtle organs of knowledge and their respective five senses. In this respect, we can engage kundalini shakti without so much mystery and fear. Kriya Yoga provides us with a clear blueprint and pragmatic tools of self- control and Self- awareness. The awakening of kundalini shakti in the human being, is an expression of one s connection to the infinite reservoir of Life Divine. Ease or difficulty of mystical awakening is related to one s degree of preparedness to receive within a localized body energy of the infinite. Kriya Yoga prepares the nadis, chakras, and all five sheaths for this psycho- physiological transformation; wherein the descent of Grace can be met with a harmonious ascent of individuated consciousness unto Union with Siva. All manner of Yoga practice and experience, both good and bad, light and dark, is accomplished through Grace, or Divine Will. This is a personal experiential belief, and it is supported by sacred texts. 18 In direct experience of Kriya Yoga arose these words, Kriya Yoga is union with Ishvara. Patanjali explains, Ishvara is the special Self, untouched by any afflictions, actions, fruits of actions or by any inner impressions of desires. 19 The culmination of the niyamas is Ishvara-pranidhana, complete surrender. Ishvara represents one s higher Self or true nature, but it also represents the chosen personal Godhead, Ishta Deva, Sat-Guru. Ishvara is the Master. The idea of complete surrender indicates spiritual maturation, and development of the ability to intuitively receive and follow guidance from the Guru. But it means more than that. Kriya Yoga, and specifically, Kriya Kundalini Pranayama, serves to prepare the yogic aspirant for direct communion with the Celestial Yogi or Yogini. 18 Godman, Be as You Are, The Teachings of Ramana Maharshi, Ch. 7, Surrender. 19 Govindan, Kriya Sutras of Patanjali, 226. I.24.

11 The secret of its attainment is a complete self- surrender to the descent of the transforming Divinity. It is for this reason, that surrender to God is the highest ideal of the Siddhas. Those who attain such surrender become virtual shrines of God. The Divinity radiates from them in all of its glory and greatness. 20 Kriya Yoga taught by Yogi Ramaiah and M.G. Satchidananda in the tradition, Babaji s Kriya Yoga, 21 which is associated with the 18 Siddha Yoga tradition of S. India, shares a potent Divine Seal with the Kriya Yoga traditions descended from Lahiri Mahasaya. Siva. Kriya Yoga is Siva Yoga. Babaji is seen as the incarnation of Lord Muruga, who is mythically known as the first son of Siva, the King of Yogis. Siva is the Divine Archetype of humanity. Both the personal Sat-Guru and the boundless impersonal Sivam, Siva is the Eternal Grand- Father of Kriya Yoga. Therefore, inherent to the practice is an invitation to the Maha Siddha, Come Siva. The correct practice of breathing is known in the 18 siddhas science of longevity as Vashi yoga. If one repeats the word vashi several times, it will resound as Shiva, Shiva, the great mantra and name of God. 22 In this practice of Kriya Kundalini Pranayama, we observe the Integral aspects of devotion or Bhakti Yoga, Mantra or Japa Yoga, the repetition of Divine names, and Nada Yoga, union through Divine Sound. Tantra Yoga is the complete integration of Divinity upon the physical basis. This ideal is a fixture of Kriya Yoga philosophy, both of Lahiri Mahasaya and within the vast literature of 18 Siddha poetry. Even the apparent dualism and separation of spirit, mind, and body is welcomed and received in the traditions of Kriya Yoga. The body is viewed as the temple of God, and practical preparations are made to wholly receive the unlimited power of Grace within it. This brings us to the third limb of Ashtanga Yoga, Asana. In modern yoga classes, asana refers to various physical postures, and has become a popularized form of exercise. And although this is a narrow presentation of Yoga, often absent of the essential philosophical basis, this commercialization has advanced knowledge 20 Govindan, Babaji and the 18 Siddha Kriya Yoga Tradition, Additional information is available at 22 Govindan, Babaji and the 18 Siddha Kriya Yoga Tradition, 159. This mental repetition is performed in conjunction with the breath, va during inhalation, shi during exhalation.

12 and care of the physical human body; having created a wide range of innovation and progressive postural evolution. As well, Yoga has reached many millions of people through innumerable practice studios and dozens of magazine publications. Therefore, critical skepticism about the diluting of essential Yoga-knowledge may be tempered by the realization that humanity needs healing en- masse. However, it serves us to understand the traditional view of asana, and its context within the 8- limbs of Yoga. My favorite definition of asana, from oral transmission of Patanjali s Yoga Sutras is, Asana is steadfast sitting, with ease. We can best understand the traditionally held value of asana in terms of facilitating the successive limbs of Yoga, namely, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana and Samadhi. That is, sitting still is fundamental to developing proficiency in these other limbs. This nuanced oral transmission matches closely what is found in text, and the verses that immediately follow shine clear Light on the import of asana. Asana is a steady comfortable posture. From the relaxation of tension an endless unity (Samadhi is established). Thereafter one is invulnerable to the dualities. With regard to (these postures) breath control is the control of the motions of inhalation and exhalation. Breath control is external, internal or stationary. It is perceived according to time, space and number and (becomes long and subtle). There is a fourth during withdrawal (between) internal and external conditions (of breathing). As a result, the veil over (the inner) Light is destroyed. And the mind becomes fit for concentration. 23 It is optimistically suggested by Patanjali that simply performing asana, or sitting still, provides express access to Samadhi. An encouraging thought! Grounding this optimism in the necessity of practical stages, Patanjali makes a direct connection between asana and Pranayama, the fourth limb of Ashtanga Yoga. We see here that control of the breath is the basis of pranayama; and that mastery of breath control is instrumental in removing the veil that obscures our awareness of inner Light, the boundless ocean of Being. While this entire essay is devoted to the 4th limb of Ashtanga Yoga, the art and mastery of breathing, let us use this space to examine some more fundamental attributes of respiration, and their importance to pranayama. Integral to the experience of breathing is the periodic alternation in dominant flow between the 23 Govindan, Kriya Yoga Sutras of Babaji, 230. Verses II

13 nostrils; sometimes the left nostril predominates and at other times, the right. And about every three hours this trend changes sides. In doing so, the body is able to maintain its normal body temperature at about 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. 24 This corresponds to our understanding of two primary nadis: the idakalai, or the lunar/feminine channel along the left side of the body, and the pingalai, the solar/masculine side. The left nostril emphasizes the ida nadi, which predominating, a cooling is effected; the right nostril emphasizes the pingala nadi, which predominating, a warming occurs. Therefore, the nostrils serve as the body s principal thermostat, ensuring hyper- accuracy in regulation of temperature. Hatha Yoga is the Yoga of sun and moon therefore pranayama is its ideal expression. The hemispheres of the brain correspond to the opposing side of the body, which includes the opposite nostril. Thus, when the right nostril is widely open, the left side of the brain governs; which is associated with logic, reason, and assertive masculinity. When the left nostril is open wide, the right brain encourages intuition, creativity, receptivity and other feminine qualities. This yogic discovery has led to the popular and powerful pranayama known as Nadi Shodana, wherein a practitioner intentionally alternates the breath between the two nostrils. In this respect, pranayama has diverse and dynamic application, and can be intentionally used to shape a person s physical and mental experience towards favorable circumstances. It is said that with practice, the alternation of flow between the nostrils can be accomplished simply by mental concentration. One may also learn to breathe through both nostrils equally, bringing about an integration and synthesis of the two major aspects of our personality. When this is done, it is said that the energy of the breath flows through the central shushumna nadi, producing a feeling of well- being, serenity and profound understanding. This is an ideal state for the practice of meditation. 25 (Govindan, Babaji, 158) It becomes increasingly apparent just how important pranayama is to the practice of meditation. It is the perfect compliment. The breath and mind are so deeply connected, that to control one s breath directly corresponds to controlling one s mind. Imbalanced mental states such as anger and fear inherently include 24 Govindan, Babaji and the 18 Siddha Kriya Yoga Tradition, Govindan, Babaji and the 18 Siddha Kriya Yoga Tradition, 158.

14 short, a- rhythmic breathing. Bringing awareness, stability and relaxation to the breath causes these qualities to be imparted upon the mind. Whereas pranayama is viewed as control of the breath, meditation may be viewed as control of the mind. As we are learning, they are each essential and integral to the other. Yogananda explains, The ancient Yogic technique converts the breath into mind- stuff. By spiritual advancement, one is able to cognize the breath as a mental concept, and act of mind: a dream breath. 26 For the physical person, the breath and mind are one. Having established a comfortable asana or meditation posture, and a natural course of breath, the 5 th limb of Ashtanga Yoga to be mastered is Pratyahara. This is typically understood as sense withdrawal, or withdrawing awareness from the five physical senses. But additional nuance of understanding is required. In the cosmic order, Rta, of Samkhya and Yoga philosophy, there are described ten indriyas: the jnanendriyas, the five sense organs of perception or knowledge, and the karmendriyas, the five motor organs of action. The jnanendriyas receive energy, whereas the karmendriyas express or act it out. 27 They arise concurrently and are potentials of experience that manifest through all five sheaths. Thus the sense of sight for example, is possible through inner planes or lokas that correspond to the inner koshas or subtle bodies; this subtle sense faculty is exercised in the practice of dream yoga or visualization. Therefore, pratyahara is not simply shutting the five senses off, but rather, turning them inward towards the Source of their origination. Yoga enables the devotee to switch off or on, at will, life current to the five sense telephones of sight, sound, smell, taste and touch. Attaining this power of sense disconnection, the yogi finds it simple to unite his mind at will with divine realms or with the world of matter. No longer is he unwillingly brought back by the life force to the mundane sphere of rowdy sensations and restless thoughts. 28 Whereas modern physical science tends to try and explain causation of life in the senses by virtue of the physical body, Yoga views Life and sense experience to be of an inner Divine origin. Yogananda illustrates the critical importance of gaining control of desire that grasps through the five physical senses. His Master, Sri 26 Yogananda, Autobiography of a Yogi, Frawley, Yoga and Ayurveda, Yogananda, Autobiography of a Yogi, 282.

15 Yukteswar, describes keenly the two poles of the mind, one turned within and the other without. Being thus magnetized, it has two poles, one of which attracts it toward the Real Substance, Sat, and the other repels it from the same. The former is called Sattva or Buddhi, the Intelligence, which determines what is Truth; and the latter, being a particle of Repulsion, the Almighty Force spiritualized as aforesaid, produces the ideal world for enjoyment (ananda) and is called Anandatwa or Manas, the Mind. 29 In this way, pratyahara, empowered by asana and pranayama, is the Yoga of turning away from desire and ignorance inherent to the sense experience of gross physical Maya towards the Real Substance, Sat. Most commonly, this is supported by sitting still in yogasana, and closing the eyes; though the real aim is turning the mind inwards, which can be accomplished while the physical senses still operate. When successful, pratyahara is the efficacious prelude to Dharana, the 6 th limb of Ashtanga Yoga. The basic practice of Yoga meditation may be described as continuous concentration, with relaxation ; or relaxation with awareness. This is accomplished by the yogi concentrating upon an object. As dharana implies a sense of effort or force of concentration, it also connotes an aspiration of relaxation, releasing the tension of mental focus. Some widely used traditional objects of meditation are mantras or sacred sounds, AUM, a candle flame, a lingam or divine phallus, and an image of the Ishta Deva or chosen Sat-Guru. Absolutely any object, physical or mental, that the mind can focus upon, can serve as the instrument of dharana. The breath is such an object, and in fact, effective practice of pranayama powerfully stimulates both pratyahara and dharana. A life- long practitioner of Kriya Yoga tells us, After some practice, the student of yogic breathing can actually feel the flow of energy through out the network of nadis during each breath. 30 That is, turning within (pratyahara) upon the breath as the object of dharana, is inherent to the skillful use of pranayama. Dharana is the phase of Yoga that precedes and empowers Dhyana, the continuous absorption of concentration upon an object. In this 7 th limb of Ashtanga 29 Yukteswar, The Holy Science, Govindan, Babaji and the 18 Siddha Kriya Yoga Tradition, 156.

16 Yoga, mind as the subject identifies with the object, and true knowledge is gained. The term dhyana implies that the practice of dharana has been purified of excessive raja/action and tamas/inertia: the mental awareness of the object has become sattvic, balanced, stable and without effort or fatigue. In dhyana, the subject and object become one, even as Yogananda previously explained that by the practice of pranayama, the mind and the breath become one and the same. The Maha-Siddha Tirumular, author of the epic Siva-Yoga treatise, Tirumandiram, says, Let Prana merge in Mind And together the two be stilled Then no more shall birth and death be; Therefore, learn to direct breath In streams alternating left and right; Then shall you taste the nectar of life. 31 Once again we learn that for jivatman, the individuated consciousness seeking divine union, pranayama is the perfect vehicle of dhyana. Samadhi The equilibrium produced in the breathing between the right side and the left side, as well as between the inner and outer air pressure leads to the breathless state of communion with God, known as Samadhi in yoga. 32 Our next topic, Samadhi, the 8 th and final Limb of Ashtanga Yoga, is a sublime and spiritual concept that must be experienced to be genuinely known. Samadhi is also known as Yoga. Union. Union of Siva and Shakti, male and female, subject and object, seer and seen, solar and lunar, pingala and ida; It is also the union of jiva and Siva, the Ishvara-pranidhana or complete surrender Patanjali says is the culmination of Kriya Yoga. It has been said by a Kriya siddha, Samadhi is literally not what you think. 33 But it is our task here, in a sacrificial act of scholasticism, to intuitively feel the Source of knowledge, and to draw out from the inner, Divine wisdom in the form of thought and word. Much has been said and written about Samadhi. Kriya Yoga 31 Natarajan, Tirumandiram, Verse 567, Volume Govindan, Babaji and the 18 Siddha Kriya Yoga Tradition, Oral transmission.

17 traditions in particular shed colorful insight on the idea, in the form of a detailed map. May the references offered here serve to deepen our knowledge about how Samadhi is experienced directly, in a safe and progressive manner. Kriya Yoga traditions make bold claims about how Kriya Kundalini Pranayam directly facilitates Samadhi, and we are going to research why. So lets go back to our initial inquiry, Why pranayama? Kriya Kundalini Pranayama is the most potential technique in Babaji s Kriya Yoga. The techniques or kriyas are the hypotheses. The student s consciousness is the laboratory. The purpose of these kriyas or techniques is the awakening of the chakras, the purification of the nadis, and finally the awakening of the kundalini shakti, leading to God or Self- realization. The kriyas are designed and taught so as to bring about an awakening of this kundalini in stages, rather than abruptly. 34 The operative concepts here are empiricism and safety. There is so much propaganda in Yoga traditions about the dangers of premature kundalini awakening, any intention towards pragmatism and reason (while also promoting efficiency), is welcomed. Though Kriya Kundalini Pranayama is a potent tool of awakening, it also provides regulation and control of one s transformative experience. In other words, *mastery of the breath may be the safest manner in which to awaken kundalini and subsequently attain Samadhi. And though pranayama is the central practice of Kriya Yoga schools, there are complimentary Kriyas or yogic tools that additionally promote integration and safety. The asana kriyas, mudras and bandhas were developed by the Siddhas and practiced to strengthen the psycho- physical centers and channels (nadis), to eliminate blockages, to permit the transmission of gradually increasing amounts of pranic energy, as well as to keep the body free from impurities, functional disorders and diseases. 35 As students of Yoga we often become enamored with descriptions of Samadhi, and the attainment of siddhis, perfections or powers. There is a degree of mystery surrounding the whole subject, thus we carefully examine the guidance and wisdom of Masters who have pioneered the pilgrimage unto God. As the kundalini passes through the chakras, these dormant areas and all of our latent faculties and 34 Govindan, Babaji and the 18 Siddha Kriya Yoga Tradition, Govindan, Babaji and the 18 Siddha Kriya Yoga Tradition, 156.

18 divine potentialities are awakened. 36 The latent faculties M.G. Satchidananda speaks of correspond to the power of Buddhi expressing itself skillfully through Manas, utilizing the indriyas or sense experience in progressively evolved manners. For example, the sense of sight can be awakened into clairvoyance or Divine vision; or the sense of hearing can expand unto clairaudience or Divine hearing. The extraordinary powers attributed to advanced Siddhas is largely due to the knowledge and intelligent use of this stored- up energy. This prana not only supplies electric force to the nerves, but it magnetizes the iron in the system and produces the aura as a natural emanation. 37 The concept of magnetism is found through out the Kriya literature, and is worth contemplating. Sri Yukteswar has said that the causal body, karana, is the body of magnetic- aura electricities. 38 Yogananda too mentions magnetism often. The Kriya Yogi uses his technique to saturate and feed all his physical cells with undecayable light and thus to keep them in a spiritually magnetized condition. 39 Thus, we may infer there is a pervasive constituency of magnetic electricity within life- force, prana, kundalini shakti; even as there is mystic fire. Mastery over these existential constituents causes siddhi. The term siddhi is commonly presented as supernatural power. Common warnings are offered against motivation towards attaining siddhi, as attachment to them creates obstacles in the form of samskaras, subconscious habitual tendencies. Yet we see that siddhis are an entirely natural development of consciousness made possible by Yoga. Even as our attachment to the senses must be transcended, so too must we not be attached to the sensory experience of siddhis. It is often these stories of Samadhi and siddhi that inspire within us deep intuition of our true nature, and a longing for Life as Spirit; and so we should honor are relationship with them as a necessary part of the journey unto God. With the sword of viveka, discernment, we study the yogic map of Being and 36 Ibid, Govindan, Babaji and the 18 Siddha Kriya Yoga Tradition, Yukteswar, The Holy Science, Yogananda, Autobiography of a Yogi, 281.

19 prepare our bodies and minds for union with the Divine. For the Kriya Yogi, pranayama is the secret. Samadhi is often said to be marked by cessation of respiration, and at a higher stage this includes cessation of the heart. In this way the yogi is able to practice dying, literally. However, rather than cessation we might say that the rhythms of breath and heart are suspended by Divine Grace. This suspension of breath is referred to as kaivalya kumbhaka, and with proper preparation it occurs without effort. However, common in Yoga history and practice is the intentional retention of breath at the top of inhalation (kumbhaka), and at the bottom of exhalation (rechaka). While this technique forcefully simulates the inevitable state of Samadhi and corresponding breathlessness, it is controversial in that it may over time cause unnecessary stress on the heart, depleting the body s cells of oxygen (hypoxia), a primary cause of inflammation. Through effective Kriya Kundalini Pranayama practice, kumbhaka arises with balance and ease. Attempts to hold breath forcibly in the lungs are unnatural and decidedly unpleasant. Kriya practice, on the other hand, is accompanied from the very beginning by feelings of peace and by soothing sensations of regenerative effect in the spine. 40 Whereas inflammation is the chief cause of physical injury and aging, pranayama hyper- oxygenates the cells, empowering wellbeing, vitality and contentment. Pranayama yogis skillfully utilize ratios of inhalation and exhalation; such as 1:0:1:0 ( 0 representing no breath retention), 2:0:2:0 (indicating longer duration), 1:0:2:0 (maximizing prana absorption), or 2:0:1:0 (inducing sleep, as this ratio is normal in a state of sleep). And these yogis value highly reduction of the average number of breaths taken per minute. Yogi S.A.A. Ramaiah, a direct disciple of Kriya Babaji, formulated a principal noting that the slower one breathes on average, the longer that person will live by nature. He explained the 18 Siddhas held contemplative awareness of other animals, from whom They gleaned Kriyas or skillful means. This has been referred to as the Law of Inverse Proportions by Yogi S.A.A. Ramaiah, who noted that the span of life is inversely related to the rate of breathing. And if the 40 Yogananda, Autobiography of a Yogi, 280.

20 rate of breathing is reduced to zero, the life span will become infinity. Yogi Ramaiah has pointed to examples from the study of modern zoology which confirm the law of inverse proportions : the sea turtle lives to an age of more than 300 ears and breathes at a rate of four to five respirations per minute. Other animals such as frogs, mice, bears, go into hibernation during the winter and their breathing is drastically reduced during that time. 41 Yogananda corroborated this theory in his autobiography. Jai Tortoises! How then does one achieve victory in this endeavor of slowing the breath? Even as Kriya Kundalini Pranayama is the central practice of all Kriya Yoga traditions, Ujaayi, the victory breath, is the central nucleus of Kriya Kundalini Pranayama. It consists of closing (in part) the epiglottis, which prevents food and water from entering your lungs; the epiglottis is contracted, thereby minimizing the volume of air moving across the threshold; this results in a naturally longer course of breath. Ujaayi produces a smooth sound similar to waves of the ocean, which serves as an excellent point of concentration for the mind; there is a textural sensation of wind in the technique, which is an additional mental support. As the breath is comfortably slowed, the heartbeat is also slowed, and a powerful relaxation is made possible. Guided by sacred texts, it is my own experience and belief that Ujaayi is the core mechanism of prana absorption in the brain, specifically in the region known as medulla oblongata, which happens to be the nervous centre that regulates rhythmic muscular contractions involved with breathing. 42 There is additionally common to Kriya Yoga the powerful mudra Kechari, wherein the tongue is curled up, contacting the roof of the mouth (as far back as is comfortable). This directs flow of prana into Sushumna, the central nadi that is a direct pipeline to the Sahasrara, the 1008 petal crown chakra, the doorway to Brahman. Together, Ujaayi and Kechari comprise the Shakti and Siva of Kriya Kundalini Pranayam, the dynamic receptivity and piercing stability. They serve as the integral mechanisms that allow the yogi to die by Divine Grace. Each unique description of Samadhi conveys subtly and nuance of experience that may yet provide important clues to the experimenting sadhak. May the 41 Govindan, Babaji and the 18 Siddha Kriya Yoga Tradition, Ibid, 151.

21 guidance of these Masters illuminate our inquiry. Swami Sri Yukteswar enlightens us with a view of Samadhi as a powerful type of rest for the body and mind. If man can control these involuntary nerves by the aforesaid Pranayama, he can stop the natural decay of the material body and put the involuntary nerves (of the heart, lungs, and other vital organs) to rest periodically, as he does with his voluntary nerves in sleep. After such rest by Pranayama the involuntary nerves become refreshed and work with newly replenished life. If man can die, that is, consciously put his entire system, voluntary and involuntary, to rest each day by practice of Pranayama, his whole physical system works with great vigor. Life and death come under the control of the yogi who perseveres in the practice of Pranayama. In that way, he saves his body from premature decay that overtakes most men, and can remain as long as he wishes in his present physical form, thus having time to work out his karma in one body and to fulfill (and so get rid of) all the various desires of his heart. Finally purified, he is no longer required to come again into this world under the influence of Maya, Darkness. 43 Regarding the why of pranayama, that s clear and straight to the point! We have things to do in this world, but we also need to rest. Sri Yukteswar s description of profound rest accomplished by Kriya pranayama, resembles closely the description of Yoga Nidra, or yogic sleep; a powerful Yoga practice where the yogi transforms sleep into an experience of enlightenment. If as Sri Yukteswar indicates, it is our inherent dharma to transcend the cycle of reincarnation unto bhuloka, the gross physical sphere, what then awaits us in Self- realization? Though indescribable, these great Masters left inspiring glimpses. Untying the cord of breath that binds the soul to the body, Kriya serves to prolong life and to enlarge the consciousness to infinity. The Yoga technique overcomes the tug- of- war between the mind and the matter entangled senses, and frees the devotee to re- inherit his eternal kingdom. He knows then that his real being is bound neither by physical encasement nor by breath symbol of mortal man s enslavement to air, nor to Nature s elemental compulsions. 44 (Yogananda, 282) Yogananda here signifies that man is a spiritual being at Heart, ultimately freed from ignorance and suffering by the power and Grace of pranayama. As we have observed, an important golden thread through the Kriya literature is the central importance of Sushumna Nadi in the attainment of Samadhi, Self- realization and God- union. We have read that when the ida and pingala become purified of blockages and brought into balance, the breath flows through this central 43 Yukteswar, The Holy Science, Yogananda, Autobiography of a Yogi, 282.

22 channel of Life. But remember that Yogananda has showed us the breath and mind are One. Therefore, the mind itself is focused within Sushumna, which is the quintessential act of pratyahara or turning within. When man directs all his organs of sense toward their common center, the sensorium or Sushumnadwara, the door of the internal world, he perceives his God- sent luminous body of Radha or John the Baptist, and hears the peculiar knocking sound, Pranava Sabda, the Word of God. 45 This elegant testimony from Sri Yukteswar holds Divine mystery, and inspires deep intuitive inquiry. He may be referring to one s conscious perception of his/her own Heart or anandamayakosha, and the luminous attributes of Purusha. We may also infer from Radha or John the Baptist, forms of Isvara with whom we may unite in complete surrender, Isvara-pranidhana 46. Radha, as the Divine Mother, showers Grace upon Her children. John the Baptist bore witness to the Divine Light and served in the sacred role of baptizing Jesus, wherein the Holy Spirit descended upon him like a dove. Maybe here, these effulgent Devas serve in the role of Sat-Guru, bestowing Liberation upon the individuated consciousness. As well, here is a lovely illustration of the realization of Nada Yoga, union with God through Divine Sound, Pranava Sabda, or AUM. Proponents of Nada Yoga share a view that the ineffable Brahman, Sivam, or God, which is by nature Luminous, Silent, and Unchanging, also produces a vibration as the sound of AUM, from which all manifestation arises. They advocate meditation on the Divine Sound as the principal vehicle of God- realization. Here again we observe the practice of Vaashi Yoga, Kriya Kundalini Pranayama, and the absorption within Sushumna Nadi, as the perfect realization of Nada Yoga. Meditation on AUM is a primary thread through all Kriya Yoga tradition, and is even incorporated into Kriya Kundalini Pranayama, and other Kriyas, such as Omkar Kriya. As the actual techniques of Kriya Yoga are generally kept secret and only taught to qualified aspirants, certain details have to be omitted from this 45 Yukteswar, The Holy Science, Not dissimilar to the practice of yidam in Tibetan Buddhism. The meditator unites with Deities such as Tara and Avalokiteshvara.