Sri M - Rules, Regulations and Theory of Kriya Yoga - Day 2 Satsang (2) Cynham Retreat 2018

Kriya Yoga Practice Introduction

In this section, the speaker introduces the practice of Kriya Yoga and emphasizes the importance of establishing a connection with the origin of the system through a guru mantra.

Guru Mantra Practice

• The guru mantra is essential before starting Kriya practice to establish a link with the system's origin. The speaker shares details on how to perform the guru mantra, encouraging openness in sharing this previously secretive practice.

• Instructions are given on finding a comfortable posture for the practice, highlighting various suitable sitting positions for practitioners.

• Sitting cross-legged is recommended over using a chair for practicing Kriya, although sitting on a chair is acceptable if necessary.

Hand Placement and Visualization

• Guidance is provided on hand placement options during the practice, allowing flexibility in positioning as long as hands are not held in specific ways.

• Practitioners are instructed to focus their attention on the anahata center in the middle of their chest during visualization exercises.

Lotus Visualization and Mantra Chanting

• Visualizing a white lotus at the anahata center and imagining footwear placed atop it symbolizes reverence towards spiritual teachers.

• The sacred mantra "Om Shri Guru" is introduced, emphasizing chanting it with humility and devotion for five minutes before commencing Kriya practice.

Rules and Regulations for Kriya Practice

This part covers essential rules and regulations to be followed by individuals engaging in Kriya Yoga practice, emphasizing consistency and dedication in daily routines.

Daily Practice Guidelines

• Emphasis is placed on daily practice as a fundamental aspect of Kriya Yoga, suggesting regularity with at least one session per day for optimal benefits.

• Four simple yet crucial rules are outlined for practitioners, focusing on regularity, timing (preferably early mornings), and avoiding food intake before practicing.

Kriya Yoga Practice Guidelines

In this section, the speaker provides guidelines for practicing Kriya yoga, emphasizing the importance of timing and cleanliness in the practice.

Best Time and Place for Kriya

• Practicing Kriya can be done at any time as long as two and a half hours have passed since a full meal.

• The best times for Kriya are in the morning or at midnight.

• Kriya can be practiced anywhere, such as temples or churches, but it is essential to ensure a clean environment free from bad smells.

Practice Recommendations

• Daily practice of Kriya is recommended without any restrictions based on gender or timing.

• Women can practice Kriya even during their menstrual cycles.

• Personal hygiene practices include using a fresh set of clothes specifically for Kriya sessions and washing them weekly.

• Comfortable clothing that allows flexibility is advised during practice.

Ethical Guidelines for Practicing Kriya Yoga

This section focuses on ethical considerations and guidelines when practicing Kriya yoga to maintain authenticity and integrity in teaching and personal conduct.

Ethical Conduct

• Avoid teaching Kriya yoga to others unless authorized by authentic sources like the speaker.

• Emphasizes not setting up teaching practices for financial gain or misrepresentation of teachings.

• Uphold truthfulness in all aspects of life, acknowledging challenges in maintaining honesty in a world filled with falsehoods due to advertising and societal norms.

Non-Harming Principle

• Encourages avoiding causing harm to living beings, including humans, through actions or words.

• Highlights the importance of compassion towards all living beings to cultivate a harmonious existence.

Importance of Mindful Speech

This part underscores the significance of mindful speech in interactions with others to prevent conflicts and promote peaceful coexistence.

Mindful Communication

• Stresses the impact of words on others' well-being, advocating for thoughtful speech before engaging in conversations.

New Section

In this section, the speaker discusses the importance of utilizing words effectively and following four rules to create a positive impact on one's life.

Importance of Utilizing Words Effectively

• Effective communication can make a significant difference in one's life.

• Following four simple rules can lead to positive outcomes.

• The rules may seem challenging at first but are essential for personal growth and development.

New Section

This part emphasizes the significance of practicing mindfulness and Kriya to manage emotions like irritation and anger effectively.

Practicing Mindfulness

• Practicing mindfulness helps in managing emotions like irritation and anger.

• Engaging in Kriya practice alongside acknowledging negative emotions can be beneficial.

• Consistent practice is key to reducing the impact of negative emotions on mental well-being.

New Section

The speaker highlights the importance of avoiding practicing Kriya immediately after consuming alcohol for optimal results.

Avoiding Alcohol Before Kriya Practice

• It is advised not to practice Kriya immediately after consuming alcohol.

• Acknowledging feelings of agitation or anger while practicing is crucial for effective results.

• Continuous practice is essential to overcome negative emotions gradually.

New Section

This segment emphasizes maintaining clarity and balance in practices such as Kriya, especially concerning alcohol consumption.

Maintaining Clarity in Practices

• Avoid practicing Kriya right after consuming alcohol for optimal effectiveness.

• Balancing personal choices with spiritual practices is important.

• Clarity and focus are crucial when engaging in practices that affect the central nervous system.

New Section

The discussion revolves around balancing personal choices, moderation, and prioritizing relationships over strict dietary restrictions.

Balancing Personal Choices

• Moderation in all aspects of life, including diet, sleep, and activities, is emphasized.

• Prioritizing relationships over strict dietary rules can be important at times.

New Section

In this section, the speaker explains the meaning of the chant "Oh Shri Guru Yamaha" and delves into the significance of each component in the chant.

Understanding the Chant "Oh Shri Guru Yamaha"

• The chant begins with "Sri Sri," a respectful term for a guru or teacher.

• "Sri" is a shortened form of "Shriman," meaning mister, while "guru" signifies teacher.

• The term "namaha" is used to offer respect or homage.

• The speaker emphasizes activating energy through sound, specifically mentioning the importance of the sound "dream."

• Explains that chanting the mantra helps in understanding spiritual states and reaching higher energy levels.

New Section

This segment focuses on elaborating on the activation of energy through specific sounds and their significance in spiritual practices.

Activation of Energy Through Sound

• Energy within humans, referred to as Shakti, is predominantly female and can be activated by specific sounds like "dream."

• The addition of 'haim' to the mantra aids in activating energy levels during chanting.

• Understanding the deeper meanings behind mantras assists individuals in spiritual growth and connecting with higher energies.

New Section

Here, discussions revolve around faith, practice, and individual beliefs concerning spiritual practices like Kriya yoga.

Faith, Practice, and Beliefs

• Emphasizes that having faith or belief in one's practice is crucial for consistency.

• Acknowledges varying beliefs regarding God but encourages engaging in spiritual practices regardless.

• Mentions upcoming book titled "Yoga for the godless," catering to those who wish to engage in yoga without strong religious beliefs.

New Section

This part highlights practical aspects of engaging in meditation and breathing exercises amidst daily life challenges.

Practical Meditation Practices

• Suggests simple meditation practices that can be done quietly without disturbing others.

• Encourages consistent practice even during challenging times or when physically unwell.

Detailed Explanation of Energy Channels in Yoga

In this section, the speaker delves into the concept of energy channels in yoga, focusing on the three main nadis and their significance for yogis.

Understanding the Three Main Nadis

• The three main nadis are Ida, Pingala, and Sushumna.

• These nadis converge at a point known as Triveni Sangam, crucial for yogis.

• Most individuals have energy flowing through hundreds of channels, with Ida and Pingala being prominent.

• Balancing the energies of Ida and Pingala is essential in yoga practice.

Balancing Energies: Prana and Apana

This part discusses balancing prana and apana energies to achieve equilibrium and enhance spiritual growth.

Achieving Balance

• Balancing prana and apana involves aligning positive and negative charges akin to anode and cathode.

• Through yogic practices like Kriya, generating a spark between prana and apana leads to spiritual elevation.

Journey Towards Spiritual Expansion

Exploring how yogic practices facilitate spiritual growth by channeling energy along the central path towards higher dimensions.

Spiritual Progression

• By directing energy upwards through yogic techniques, one embarks on a journey towards expanded consciousness.

• The gradual process of Kriya aids individuals in ascending step by step towards higher realms beyond sensory experiences.

Understanding Chakras: Mooladhara & Swadisthana

Delving into the significance of Mooladhara as the foundational chakra followed by insights on Swadisthana's symbolism.

Chakra Insights

• Mooladhara represents the root center responsible for basic functions like eating, drinking, and sexuality.

• Symbolically explained as where prana resides coiled like a snake awaiting awakening.

Symbolism Behind Swadisthana Chakra

Unpacking the symbolism behind Swadisthana chakra through color associations representing elements like water and fire.

Symbolism Decoded

• Swadisthana symbolizes one's own place between Mooladhara (earth element represented by yellow color) and Manipura (fire element depicted in red).

Anahat Chakra: Gateway to Higher Consciousness

Exploring Anahat chakra's significance as it signifies transcendence from animalistic tendencies towards higher awareness.

Transcendence Signified

Blue Knot and Pure Wish

In this section, the speaker discusses the significance of a blue knot, sound in silence, and the concept of purity in wishes.

Blue Knot Symbolism

• The blue color represents a knot known as "a knot now," symbolizing being unstuck.

• Sound is emphasized as essential, even in silence, with references to sounds heard at night without wind.

• The absence of sound signifies purity in wishes and the purification process.

Chakras and Energy Centers

This part delves into chakras, focusing on their shapes, colors, and locations within the body.

Chakra Descriptions

• Descriptions of chakras include oval-shaped centers like sky blue and indigo deep purple violet.

• Reference to the agnya center located in front of the pineal gland inside an egg-shaped structure.

• Details about symbolic black stone neck with eye ear symbols and white petals associated with chakras.

Sahasrara Chakra and Spiritual Expansion

Exploring the sahasrara chakra as a destination for spiritual growth and expansion of consciousness.

Sahasrara Chakra Significance

• The sahasrara chakra atop the crown is considered the thousand-petal Lotus representing spiritual attainment.

• Varanasi city symbolizes reaching this center for ultimate realization.

• Unity of Shakti and Shiva leads to blissful experiences enhancing awareness and tranquility.

Balancing Prana through Yoga Practices

Discussing yogic practices aimed at balancing prana energy flow for heightened awareness.

Yogic Practices

• Yogi's goal is to balance prana (life force energy) by harmonizing apana through specific techniques.

• Process involves activating energy centers by moving spark along sushumna nadi via triangular path for expanded consciousness.

Activation through Sounds and Energy Movement

Exploring how sounds activate energy centers leading to enhanced vitality and spiritual progress.

Sound Activation

• Utilizing sounds centered on specific energy points activates corresponding centers for energy movement.