Kriyā Yoga: A Beginner’s Guide to Inner Calm

When most people think of yoga, the first thing that comes to mind is moving through postures on a mat. But yoga is much more than physical movement. One of the quieter, more meditative branches of yoga is Kriyā Yoga—a practice designed to calm the mind, balance your energy, and help you connect more deeply with yourself.

What is Kriyā Yoga?

Kriyā Yoga uses a combination of breathing techniques, hand gestures, sound, and visualization to turn the focus inward. Instead of stretching the muscles, this practice gently stretches the mind—teaching it to let go of distractions and rest in stillness.

It may sound mysterious, but at its heart Kriyā Yoga is very simple: use the breath and body to quiet the mind, and from there, you naturally drop into a deeper meditation.

The Building Blocks of Kriyā Yoga

Here are a few of the main tools used in practice:

• Breathwork (Pranayama): Focused breathing that calms the nervous system and clears the mind.

• Mudras: Hand gestures or simple body positions that help direct energy and attention.

• Visualization: Guided awareness of energy moving along the spine and through the chakras (energy centers).

• Chanting: The use of sound and vibration to create focus and inner harmony.

Each of these can be practiced on their own, but when woven together, they form the heart of Kriyā Yoga.

Why Practice Kriyā Yoga?

Kriyā Yoga offers benefits for both body and mind:

• Less stress and more calm

• Sharper focus and mental clarity

• A natural boost of energy

• A deeper meditation practice

• A growing sense of connection with your inner self

Getting Started

Join Breathe Yoga for its upcoming workshop Introduction to Kriya Yoga. with Breathe Instructor Riva to  learn the basics and explore its wide benefits.