Ananda Bangalore, Information about The Path of Kriya Yoga Course

Paramhansa Yogananda

Yogananda said that when a student is interested on the spiritual path, a book or inspiration comes to his way and when the student is fully ready, a teacher comes to him.

Those who want to take meditation lessons from Ananda are advised to read the following books first:

- Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramhansa Yogananda
- The New Path, by Nayaswami Kriyananda

Here are the excerpts taken from these books describing the Science of Kriya Yoga.

The Kriya Yogi mentally directs his life energy to revolve, upward and downward, around the six spinal centers (medullary, cervical, dorsal, lumbar, sacral, and coccygeal plexuses) which correspond to the twelve astral signs of the zodiac, the symbolic Cosmic Man. One-half minute of revolution of energy around the sensitive spinal cord of man effects subtle progress in his evolution; that half minute of Kriya equals one year of natural spiritual unfoldment.

—Paramhansa Yogananda, Autobiography of a Yogi,1946 Original Edition

Kriya Yoga directs energy lengthwise around the spine, gradually neutralizing the eddies of chitta. At the same time it strengthens the nerves in the spine and brain to receive cosmic currents of energy and consciousness. Yogananda called Kriya  the supreme science of yoga.

—Nayaswami Kriyananda, The New Path

Level 1: Basic Meditation Techniques

Yoganandaji taught two basic techniques that can be learned and practiced by anyone, of any faith, on any path.  The Hong-Sau technique of concentration and the Energisation Exercises.

Duration: Normally one day course.

Level 2: Raja Yoga

Involves a series of lessons each one half-day long.  Each lesson is designated as L2 - A, B, C and D and all four parts are normally arranged separately in sequence. One can start anywhere in the cycle and complete all Level 2 over a period of time. Level 2 covers the contents of the book The Art and Science of Raja Yoga by Nayaswami Kriyananda. Completion of level 1 and a regular practice are pre-requisites for taking Level 2.

Duration: Half-day for each of the four parts

Level 3: Discipleship & the AUM Technique

Involves learning AUM technique and understanding and accepting Guru-disciple relationship. Completing Level 2 and a regular practice of techniques previously learnt is a pre-requisite to take up level 3.

Duration: Half-day. 

Level 4: Preparation for Kriya Yoga  

This level contains the preparatory exercises and specific techniques to prepare for Kriya initiation. Classes include the history of Kriya, the astral spine, and how to bring the benefits of Kriya into daily life. 

Duration: Half-day.

The Kriya Yoga Technique: 

Once the student has completed all the levels and after about one year of preparation and upon approval by an Ananda Kriyacharya, one can take initiation. The technique is given in an initiation ceremony.

Duration: Half-day.

A Kriya technique review, checking, and question and answer session is held after the initiation for the Kriyabans(one who receives Kriya Initiation). Continued support is provided through a monthly inspirational newsletter, individual guidance by phone, e-mail or in person, as well as through guided Kriya meditations and retreats.

Schedules for various courses are announced from time to time and are available on http://www.anandabangalore.blogspot.com or http://www.anandaindia.org/sangha2/bangalore/index.php

‘Repeat to each of your disciples this majestic promise from the Bhagavad Gita:“Swalpamasya dharmasya, trayata mahato bhoyat”—“Even a little bit of the practice of this religion will save you from dire fears and colossal sufferings.”’