Psychophysiological analysis of Kriya Yoga as per Patanjala Yoga Sutra
Yoga Mimamsa January 1, 2016 DOI: 10.4103/0044-0507.198701 (opens in new tab)
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractKriya Yoga, as described in the Patanjala Yoga Sutra, consists of three components—Tapas (austerity), Svadhyaya (self-study), and Ishwara pranidhana (surrender to the divine)—that appear both as the initial practice in the Sadhana Pada and as one of the Niyamas. This analysis argues that the repetition is significant because these three steps, when examined from a psychophysiological perspective, bring about internal bodily control and prepare the mind (chitta) by removing inner resistance, thereby enabling the practitioner to enter Samadhi. The process transforms an ordinary person into a yogi.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key finding | Argues that Kriya Yoga's three steps—Tapas, Svadhyaya, and Ishwara pranidhana—produce psychophysiological changes that enable control of internal bodily functions and surrender to the inner supreme existence, thereby preparing the mind for Samadhi. |
Abstract
Background: Kriya Yoga that includes Tapas,vadhyaya, and Ishwara pranidhana as given by Patanjala Yoga Sutra finds its mention twice in the text as Kriya Yoga and as Niyama. The double occurrence has significance. Aim: The aim of this work is to carry out an analysis of what Kriya Yoga is, what is the purpose of repeating three components of Kriya Yoga, i.e., Tapas,vadhyaya, and Ishwara pranidhana in Sadhana pada. Method: The three steps of Tapas,Svadhyaya, and Ishwara pranidhana were analyzed in detail. The important difference of this analysis from other commentators is to analyze the first two steps of Kriya Yoga from the psychophysiological point of view. Analysis: The Kriya Yoga brings psychophysiological changes leading to the total control of the body, i.e., internal functions of the body. It also leads to surrender to the internal supreme existence of one's own being. The process of Tapas, Svadhyaya, and Ishwara pranidhana, as per Kriya Yoga, converts a common person into a yogi. Conclusion: The process of Kriya Yoga facilitates the removal of resistance within i.e. preparing condition of chitta which is necessary for entering into Samadhi is fulfilled.