kriya-yoga-secrets-revealed[144-201]

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LESSON I I - Y oni Mudra 
Although Lahiri did recommend practicing Y oni Mudra at night, many Kriyabans claim 
benefits from being able to practice whenever they wish, even during the day. 
Suggested Daily Routine 
In addition to this routine, at some point during your day, say l 08 repetitions of your 
mantra aloud. Mental ly chant your mantra during every free moment of your day. 
echnique Quantity 
Main Routine 
inimum Duration 50 minutes 
N adi Sodhana * 3 sets 
jjayi Pranayama* 3 sets 
Talabya Kriya 50 sets 
aha Mudra 3 sets 
Navi Kriya 4 sets 
riya Pranayama One 1 2-24 breaths 
Concentration 5+ minutes 
efore Going to Sleep 
Maha M udra 3 sets - 5 min. 
oni Mudra 1 -3 times 
Date Started 
* Optional . 1 To be practiced once weekly 
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Kriya Secrets Revealed 
Yogic Wisdom - The Five Sheaths 
A Jiva is said to be a soul, which is covered by one or more sheaths. Human beings are 
Jivas, which have five such coverings. The five sheaths allow us to interact with the three 
planes of dimensional existence (Physical, Astral and Causal) . 
1 . Annamaya Kosha - This is the physical body we all know too well . Anna means 
"food" because this sheath is built from our intake of food. 
2. Pranamaya Kosha - This is a body constructed along with the physical, which 
allows us (trans-dimensional . souls) to interface to the physical body. We know 
this body, from our work with Prana. When we are still enough, it can be easily 
sensed. Working with this body is the main focus of Kriya techniques, for it is by 
working with its energy that we overcome the physical . This body interfaces the 
physical and astral, and is made from higher-dimensional astral material, but 
bound to the physical dimension. 
3 . Manomaya Kosha - Contains our feelings and delusional thoughts. It is 
represented in the body by two chakras residing above Ajna (Chitta85 and Manas) . 
It is part of the Astral Body. 
4. Vijnanamaya Kosha - Part of Buddhi (Higher Mind) and Ahamkara (Ego). It is 
also represented by two chakras in the Subtle Body above Chitta and Manas. 
5 . Anandamaya Kosha - This i s the casual body. Its primary function i s to store our 
karmas from lifetime to lifetime. 
Upon physical death the Physical Body (Annamaya Kosha) and Subtle Body (Pranamaya 
Kosha) are slowly destroyed86. Upon astral death, the Manomaya and Vijnanamaya 
bodies are slowly destroyed. Then, in that state, only the Causal Body (Anandamaya 
Kosha) remains. When a new body is born in the astral, new Manomaya and Vijnanamaya 
sheaths are created. Then, when a Jiva is born in the physical cosmos, the Annamaya and 
Pranamaya sheaths are re-constructed in the womb. 
85 Not to be confused with the Chitta current running from the heart to the head, although the two are 
connected. 
86 The Subtle Body can be optionally retained by conscious beings. 
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LESSON 1 1 - Yoni Mudra 
Figure 29 - Sheaths of the Jiva 
The death of the Causal Body 
occurs upon final liberation when 
all karma has been neutralized. 
Without a body, the Jiva, by 
definition, is no longer spatially or 
temporally separate from anything. 
If a Jiva after this point incarnates 
into a new Causal Body, he or she 
takes on the karma of others ; and 
in doing so, is then an "Avatar87 ." 
It was recently revealed to me that 
Avatars are no longer uncommon, 
as they play an important role in 
mankind' s spiritual evolution. 
Most go unnoticed by the masses, 
and are even unaware that they are 
themselves Avatars. Avatars can 
seem outwardly good, evil , or 
anything in-between . Despite these appearances, however, their overall influence is 
always neutral izing, meaning that their net effect is to help souls become liberated (by 
taking karma upon themselves) . This karma transference occurs whether or not the Avatar 
is even consciously aware of the spiritual path, let alone his or her own true identity. 
The example of the Avatar further demonstrates that bodies exist around souls in order to 
separate them from other bodies, and in order to perform certain functions required to 
interact with the level of their current existence. Without a body, the Jiva cannot be 
separate, and is therefore a liberated soul. Our natural state is to be one with everything at 
all times; therefore, our natural state is to exist without a body. 
x? Avatar the word means "descent," because the being descends to Earth from having no karma to 
absorbing the karma of the Earth-born. Average Earth beings are ascending, because they were born on 
Earth, and have always existed within the laws of karma. 
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Kriya Secrets Revealed 
118 
LESSON 12 - Mantra Oapa Yoga) 
That which saves one from the mind or Manas, is called Mantra. 
REQUIREMENTS: None 
Although Shyama Charan Lahiri neither imparted mantras nor recommended them, I have 
included this extra lesson as an optional instruction, which could prove either extremely 
useful or distractive to the Kriyaban. I leave it up to you to weigh the benefits and decide 
for yourself. Even if you are already practicing a mantra, it would be good to review this 
section, including the Suggested Daily Routine for tips on making sure that you are using 
your mantra effectively. 
The repetition of a mantra or prayer of your choosing has been labeled Japa Yoga. Some 
students who practiced Kriya and failed to achieve significant results have claimed that 
once they introduced a mantra into their practices, the depth of their Kriya was suddenly 
brought to new heights within a short period of time. 
The power of Japa is found after practicing over one ' s lifetime; it helps us to slowly 
reshape our thoughts. The conscious and subconscious minds become, not only relieved 
of the burdens of random wanderings, but also rewired to become more peaceful upon 
demand. This peaceful state of mind is extremely useful when practicing your routine. 
You will find your Kriya practice goes deeper, and difficult tasks become quite natural . 
Japa Yoga is usually tied to a name of God and a particular belief system. However, this 
does not always need to be the case. The chanting of simple words, such as "love" or 
"peace," is sufficient to be labeled Japa Yoga. In this lesson we present many examples of 
suitable mantras ; a complete list of known ones would fill hundreds of pages. 
You are welcome to also use a mantra of your own choosing. You may even change it 
from time to time, and even say different ones in different situations . Allow yourself to try 
different mantras until you discover one that resonates with you. The one you keep going 
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Kriya Secrets Revealed 
back to is probably the one you should be repeating. Eventually you may find your inner 
Self guiding you to the one to use at .a particular moment in your life. 
The meaning of the mantra should be understood well by the person repeating it. Blind 
chanting of words of unknown meaning, even if practiced in such a powerful root 
language as Sanskrit, is not as effective as if you repeat the sounds with meaning in your 
heart. Even though the peace of simply repeating one phrase over and over again has 
tremendous benefits, when imbued with meaning, it becomes "explosive." 
The Mukti Mantra 
om namo bhagavate viisudeviiya 
This first mantra was Lahiri Mahasaya' s favorite, but by no means is it the only one, or 
necessarily the best for you. This is the liberation or Mukti Mantra, the Vasudeva Mantra 
- Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya, pronounced, "Ohhm Nah Moh Bha Ga Vah Tey 
Vaah Sue Day Vaah Yah." "Om Namo" is a typical salutation referencing the divine 
sound, where Bhagavate and Vasudevaya are both names of God with references to the 
story of Krishna. This mantra is the classic twelve-syllable mantra promised to help bring 
liberation upon all those who use it. The number of syllables proves to be useful when 
practiced during the higher Kriyas, as one entire roundto become accustomed to the energy flow after a 
few weeks. The most common problem can be blocked energy at Navi, Anahata, and 
Ajna. As long as you make sure to regularly apply Tongue Raising, Navi Kriya and Kriya 
Pranayama, you should be able to loosen those blocks . 
If practiced correctly, you will notice a wonderful tingling sensation going up the spine. 
The trick is to use the chakras as a magnet in order to carry that sensation all the way up 
to the center of the head. Once his sensation has reached the center of the head, you have 
successfully controlled the Kundalini . 
Suggested Daily Routine 
In addition to this routine, at some point during your day, say I 08 repetitions of your 
mantra aloud. Mental ly chant your mantra during every free moment of your day. 
Level 1 Level 2+ C u stom 
M i n . Dura t ion 3 0 m i n u tes 40 m i n u tes 
ad i Sodhana* 3 sets 3 sets 
Ujjay i Pranayama* 3 sets 3 sets 
'a labya Kr iya 50 sets 50 sets 
Maha M udra 3 sets 3 sets 
INav i Kri ya 4 sets 4 sets 
KP 1 1 2-24 brea t h s 1 2-24 brea t h s 
2 1 2-24 breaths 1 2-24 breaths 
KP " ' .) 1 2 b reath s 24 brea ths 
M ental Kr iya 6 rounds 6 rounds 
Yoni M udra 2 1 -3 t i mes 1 -3 t imes 
efore Going to S l eep 
M aha M udra 3 sets 3 sets 
S hort Breath Kriya 1 2 rounds 
Yon i M ud ra 1 -3 t i mes 
. a t e Started 
* Optional . 1 To be practiced one or more times weekly 2 Only at night 
Yogic Wisdom - Lahiri 's Chakras 
Lahiri is attributed to making an interesting analogy of the chakras by referring to the 
Sahasrara Chakra as a lake that spil l s out to form the river of the spinal cord. Each of the 
lower six chakras were l ikened to whirlpools along this flow. Therefore, the chakras have 
no correspondence to nerve bundles, but rather to these 'whirlpools ' . 
The chakras are also a reflection o f the whole universe inside the human body. Each 
chakra represents a different state of manifestation or matter where pure Static Prana, or 
consciousness, is vibrated or folded upon itself. 
1 . Sahasrara - beyond qualities and manifestation; God. 1 00% static . 
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Kriya Secrets Revealed 
2 . Ajna or Kutastha - beyond space and time; the Soul. 0 to 9 vibrations of Static 
Prana. 
3 . Vishuddha - space and time; ether. 1 0 vibrations. 
4. Anahata - gaseous state; air. 1 00 vibrations . 
5 . Manipura - plasma state; fire. 1 ,000 vibrations. 
6. Svadhisthana - liquid state; water. 1 0,000 vibrations. 
7 . Muladhara - solid state; earth. 1 00,000 vibrations . 
Within this mode of perception, life and death are defined as the agitation of Static Prana 
into 1 00,000 vibrations of Dynamic Prana. A man trapped in the cycle of life and death 
simply oscillates between 1 00,000 arid 1 0 vibrations . The liberated man has achieved the 
state of zero vibrations, and has therefore fully merged with Static Prana and will never 
reemerge. 
The elements are actually manifestations of these vibrations, which become dissolved 
automatically as we practice Kriya in the correct order. Between 0 to 9 vibrations, 
everything beyond space and time is perceived. At ten vibrations, space and time become 
manifest. Increased vibrations reveal heavier elements or states of matter. 
This is true in science when observing material states. In the solid state, each particle is 
strongly bound to the other, and therefore vibrates heavily, constantly confined through 
this heavy interaction. The liquid state releases a degree of freedom, as the particles are 
allowed to travel somewhat before colliding with a neighbor. The plasma state is yet freer 
than the liquid, but not quite as free as an air molecule, which can move relatively vast 
distances before encountering a particle or ion upon which it interacts. So the level of 
interactions in the space-time dimension increases as the vibration increases . 
Consciousness likewise oscillates upon itself in the chakras, giving the appearance of 
different levels of reality or different perceptual "states" or "elements ." 
In advanced Kriya exercises you will learn to contact these different "elements" within 
the chakras . 
As we transcend the space-time barrier we move into a super void state where all 
dimensions begin to cross. As we lose our interaction on a local level, our interaction at a 
super reality level reveals itself 
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Additional Practices 
In addition to the basic lessons handed down by Lahiri Mahasaya as already presented, 
many Kriya Yoga experts today recommend additional practices that can enhance your 
practice and speed your spiritual progress. Lessons 1 9 through 24 are representative of 
several of these supplemental tips and techniques; I trust that you will find them valuable 
as well . 
Lesson 19 - Mula Bandha 
The additional practice of applying tension to the base of the spine and improving the 
results of several basic Kriya routines. 
Lesson 20 - Jalandhara Bandha 
A technique which describes closing off the energy coming out from the neck. 
Lesson 2 1 - Uddiyana Bandha 
The additional practice of pul ling in the abdomen in order to close off the energy of the 
Navel . 
Lesson 22 - Bhastrika Pranayama 
A technique that, when added to your routine, can perform something similar to Navi 
Kriya, but rather upon Anahata instead of Manipura. 
Lesson 23 - Sushumna Sodhana 
This describes a technique that can help you focus better upon the Sushumna, as well as 
achieve the breathless state. 
Lesson 24 - Walking Meditations 
Techniques you can practice at times other than in your normal sitting meditations . 
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Kriya Secrets Revealed 
162 
LESSON 19 - Mula Bandha 
The one dwelling within and the pure ones located around 
and about within the heart are all established in Muladhara. 99 
- Shyama Charan Lahiri 
OTHER NAMES: Moola Bandha, Root Lock, Perineum Contraction 
REQUIREMENTS : Asana 
Mula (Sanskrit: mu/a - �) n. Root; base. 
Bandha (Sanskrit: bandha - �) n. To contract and bind. 
This is the first of three locks, which we can place upon the body in order to trap or reflect 
Prana inwards. When applied during the practice of Y oni Mudra or Thokar Kriya (Lesson 
26), it provides a powerful assistance in being able to perceive Kutastha within Ajna. 
The technique by itself is very simple, as it basically involves the tensing and holding of 
muscles located within the perineum, which is that point between the rectum and genitals. 
The effect of Mula Bandha can be found in Siva Samhita (4 : 1 2- 1 5) and Hatha Yoga 
Pradipika (9 :62-68) : 
"By contracting the perineum, the downward moving Apana Vayu is 
forced to go upward. Yogis call this Mula Bandha. Press the heel firmly 
against the rectum and contract forcefully and repeatedly, so that the vital 
energy rises . There is no doubt that by practicing Mula Bandha, Prana and 
Apana, and Nada 1 00 and Bindu are united, and total perfection is attained. 
Through this, the sleeping Kundalini is aroused by the extreme heat, and it 
99 Bhagavad Gita for Kriya Yogis, Chapter I , Verse 1 8 . 
1 00 
Nada (Sanskrit: nada - OTIG) m. Sound. In Kriya Yoga, Nada refers to the sound within the body, 
including the sound of Om. 
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Kriya Secrets Revealed 
straightens itself just as a serpent beaten with a stick straightens and 
hisses." 
Historically, the exercise described above was performed while squatting. However, we 
modify this practice, so that it may be performed in any seated pose. 
Procedure 
1 . Sit in your standard meditation seat in a straight tall pose, and with fingers 
intertwined, placed on your lap. 
2 . Concentrate upon the perineum, which is also the Ksetram for Muladhara. Exhale. 
3 . Tense the muscle there by "pulling" i t up. At first it may be difficult to locate this 
muscle. In that case, tense the muscles around the perineum until you learn to 
isolate it. 
4. Inhale and relax. 
Technique Tips 
This movement can be added to variousKriya Yoga techniques, including Y oni Mudra, 
Navi Kriya, and Thokar Kriya. It must, however, be executed at the correct moment. It is 
not imperative in these cases to 
Graduation 
After you have taken the time to experiment with this position, move on to the next 
lesson. 
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LESSON 1 9 - Mula Bandha 
Yogic Wisdom - Evolution 
According to common Eastern belief, trillions of years ago, God (the unmanifested 
Absolute) desired to experience innumerable dualistic creations . Out of this desire arose 
the il lusionary principles necessary to maintain the structure of duality. The first was that 
of the Son, or the consciousness of God, which became reflected into creation and took 
upon the role of sentience. Next came the principles of the atom (i .e . individual units 
associated with matter) . In order to fulfill this principle, the four concepts of time, space, 
atom, and macrocosm were established. These atoms vibrated and started to gather and 
create patterns from what started as an undifferentiated soup, or, 'waters of creation ' . 
Thus, through a manifestation o f Universal Desire created forms, planets, stars, and, 
finally, living beings. These creations all arose, therefore, out of an evolutionary force; i .e . 
one form desiring to end its existence took on another form, thereby changing over time. 
The process occurred naturally, meaning that it resulted from interactions with its 
environment-i.e. the original desire of dual experience, and the contradictory desire to 
return to infiniteness. 
Indeed, 84,000,000 species of plants and animals evolved before the human form was 
brought into existence. With this development, not only did the physical human body 
evolve, but also the subtle bodies associated with it. Without the subtle bodies, the human 
evolutionary process could never have occurred, as matter has existed since the beginning 
of creation-matter capable of mutating. The causal body is then the primary entity which 
maintains the state of the subtle and physical bodies, in potential. These three bodies are 
often falsely identified as the true self. However, when all three are permanently 
neutralized, only then can we achieve full liberation. 
After finally obtaining the human form, another 1 0,000,000 years is said to pass before 
humans are capable of achieving liberation from material existence. This may seem a 
daunting number; however, a Kriyaban is expected to be at the end of this journey, with 
perhaps less than a million years left. (The knowledge of exactly how many years remain 
in your journey is accessed only through personal revelation . ) In any case, this 
overwhelming number is not meant as a death sentence, as the power of the Satguru or of 
the Om vibration to diminish this number cannot be underestimated. Your desire to return 
to God, the depth of your surrender, and your faith in His power ultimately determine how 
quickly you will reach liberation. 
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Kriya Secrets Revealed 
Y ogiraj was very scientific in his prescription of Kriya Yoga. A mere eight hours of Kriya 
is sufficient to advance the Kriyaban by one thousand years . To this end, Lahiri struggled 
for months to overcome and replace sleep with Kriya. Finally, he found the secret to 
achieving a deep state of consciousness where he could nonetheless remain conscious, 
performing excellent Kriya Pranayama or Mental Kriya. Achieving this sleepless sleep is 
an important milestone in a Kriyaban' s Sadhana. It combines both sleep and Kriya. 
So, take heart, there are no prescribed timelines, only changes which we must make using 
the combined tools of Kriya Yoga. Study and follow this guide up to at least the First 
Omkar Kriya, in order to have a sufficient number of techniques at your disposal to keep 
the Kriya path as an effective transformational tool. 
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LESSON 20 - Jalandhara Bandha 
If one can conquer Udana Vayu in the throat, then Vayu, in the upper part of the body, 
is stopped, which causes all the Vayus in the lower part of the body to stop also and this 
makes the body extremely light. Water, mud, thorns etc. cannot touch it, as one can 
easily jump over them. 101 
OTHER NAMES : Net-Bearer Bond 
REQUIREMENTS : Asana 
Jalandhara (Sanskrit : jiilandhara - �) n. Net-bearing. 
Jalandhara Bandha is a hatha yoga pose, which , in the context of Kriya Yoga, is usually 
performed for the purpose of closing off the energy usually directed to the neck, so that it 
can be redirected inwards towards a particular point, such as Bhrumadhya. Jalandhara 
Bandha can be combined with Y oni Mudra or the Higher Kriyas, such as the Thokar 
Kriyas. The exercise is optional, but considered highly useful. 
Hatha Yoga schools claim that this exercise, when performed properly, has the following 
physical benefits : 
1 . Blood circulation within the spine around the neck area is improved. 
2 . Due to pressure upon the Carotid Nerve and Artery, the blood supply to the brain 
is temporarily reduced, thus calming one' s thoughts . 
3 . Massages the thyroid gland. 
1 0 1 Kriya Yoga Sutras, Chapter 3 , Verse 3 9 
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Kriya Secrets Revealed 
This exercise should not be practiced if one is pregnant, has circulation or neck problems. 
As always, one should consult a medical professional before performing any new exercise 
that may seem potentially harmful . 
Procedure 
1 . Sit in your standard meditation pose with fingers intertwined, placed upon your 
lap. 
2 . While concentrating on pulling the top of the head upwards as though you were 
pulled by a string from above, bring your shoulder blades firmly together in order 
to bring your sternum to the fore. Do not apply too much tension. You should still 
be relaxed in this position. 
3 . Position your tongue into partial Kechari or full Kechari Mudra (Tongue 
Raising). (Normal Jalandhara Bandha only involves touching the roof of the 
mouth, but this modified form is for Kriya Yogis.) 
4. Inhale deeply to about 95% capacity. 
5 . Tilt your neck forward so that it comes halfway towards, or even touches, the 
sternum. This movement is performed best by pulling upwards on Medulla, so 
that the back of the neck extends and the chin drops down. Never force your neck 
to touch the sternum; instead, allow its movement to occur naturally. It is not the 
point of this exercise that the neck and sternum meet, but rather that the energy, 
which is normally coming out of the neck, is closed off. 
Graduation 
After you have taken the time to experiment with this position, move on to the next 
lesson. 
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LESSON 20 - Jalandhara Bandha 
Yogic Wisdom - The Holy Ghost 
h is my belief that the Guru-Principle is working the moment you start to practice Kriya 
Yoga, whether you call upon it or not. However, it is not the only mechanism operating to 
assist you in pulling the energy inward and upward. There is another force, or should I 
say, another aspect to the Guru, which is l ikewise present to assist this inward movement 
of energy. That other aspect is the Om vibration. The Om vibration is complex and rich 
and difficult to describe, but clearly understood when experienced. It is the sound of 
creation itself. One popular analogy for its description is to think of creation as a motor, 
and Om, its hum. Some people have difficulty conceiving of Om as invisible vibration, as 
we are conditioned to believe that creation is matter-centered and not consciousness­
centered. In a mattered-centered view of creation, matter arose first and then created 
consciousness. In a consciousness-centered view, consciousness existed first in a higher 
dimension, and then matter centered itself within the will of this consciousness. It is this 
second viewpoint that we take as Kriyabans . 
Another analogy for Om that I have found useful is that of a reed instrument. If the 
chakras run along the instrument, and the Prana provides the air or wind,then the Om 
vibration is the sound that it makes as this wind passes through. This sound can be easily 
perceived, even by beginners. If you cannot hear it within the first few months of Kriya 
practice, then do not worry, with continued practice you will. Once you do, focusing upon 
this sound has a hidden liberating effect whose true nature will reveal itself with time. 
This effect of the Om vibration has been written about in many religious and mystical 
texts . It has been sung about, such as with Kabir. It is often referred to as the word of 
God, the hum of creation, the Shabda or sound current, which brings all things into 
remembrance. Some call it the Holy Ghost. I for one noticed very little when I started 
listening to it. Indeed, to the conscious mind it seems as if nothing is really happening. 
Then, after a while I began to notice changes, as you will, in attitudes toward daily living. 
You will notice your intuition start to increase. Eventually, you will learn to enjoy the 
sound. The sound will also start to change, perhaps from the buzzing of a bee to that of a 
flute, and then harp, gong, and ocean, finally resolving into one of the many bell, wind, or 
water-like sounds which emanate from different parts of the head. The sounds will come 
from higher and higher locations in your body as your practices deepen. Also, do not 
worry if you hear the higher sounds before the lower ones; focus rather on the higher 
sounds. 
LESSON 21 - Uddiyana Bandha 
When Samana Vayu expands, the Supreme Person can be seen; performing Kriya with 
Prana Vayu, a taste like golden honey and ghee can be experienced in the throat. 192 
- Shyama Charan Lahiri 
OTHER NAMES: Abdominal Lock 
REQUIREMENTS : Asana 
Uddiyana (Sanskrit: Uflfliyiina - 3��'ll lCl"I) n. Upwards moving. 
The full hatha yoga version of this technique involves standing; however, I have also 
provided instruction in a variation which can be performed in the seated position. Both 
procedures are presented, because to truly understand thi s Bandha, one should perform it 
as it is usually practiced. The second variant is suitable for use with Kriya Yoga. 
This pose should only be performed on an empty stomach. 
Procedure while Standing 
1 . Stand with your feet slightly apart, eyes open, staring forward. 
2. Place your palms down on the thighs in the front of your body. In order to reach, 
you may slightly bend your back and your shoulders forward. 
3 . Inhale deeply through the nose to a count o f approximately five seconds. 
4. Now, exhale quickly and forcibly through the nose. As you do this, contract your 
abdominal muscles, pulling them in and up as comfortably as possible. Your 
abdomen should cave inwards. After you have finished exhaling, relax your 
abdominal muscles and let them return to their normal position . 
1 02 
Laws of Manufor Kriya Yogis, Chapter 2, Verse 29 
1 7 1 
Kriya Secrets Revealed 
5 . Now perform a "mock inhalation" by expanding the ribcage, as though you were 
inhaling, but without actually taking a breath. This action causes the abdomen to 
slightly "suck" up into the chest. 
6. At this point, when the breath is still exhaled, optionally practice Jalandhara 
Bandha. 
7 . Hold the entire pose with exhaled breath and mock-inhaled-expanded ribcage for 
approximately ten seconds. 
8 . Slowly release the abdominal grip and breathe normally. 
9. Take a moment to pause, perhaps even breathe a few times, before repeating steps 
3 through 8 . Most hatha yoga instructors recommend repeating this exercise 
between three to ten times. 
Procedure while Sitting 
1 . Sit in your standard meditation pose with fingers intertwined, placed on your lap. 
2. Inhale deeply through the nose to a count of approximately five seconds. 
3 . Now, exhale quickly and forcibly through the nose. A s you exhale, contract your 
abdominal muscles, pulling them in and up as comfortably as possible. Your 
abdomen should cave inwards. After you have finished exhaling, relax your 
abdominal muscles and let them return to their normal position. Optionally 
perform Mula Bandha. 
4. Now perform a "mock inhalation" by expanding the ribcage as though you were 
inhaling, but without actually taking a breath. This action causes the abdomen to 
slightly "suck" up into the chest. 
5 . At this point, when the breath is stil l exhaled, optionally practice Jalandhara 
Bandha. 
6. Hold the entire pose with exhaled breath and mock-inhaled-expanded ribcage for 
approximately ten seconds. 
7. Slowly release the abdominal grip and breathe normally. 
172is twelve steps. 
Christian Mantra 
In Aramaic, maranatha means "Come 
Lord" when pronounced "mara-natha," 
and "Lord is Come" when pronounced 
"maran-atha." 
Radhasoami Mantras 
� 21 
] II MnM pn - Mn Mnn 1. 1 marana' tha' or: maran 'atha' . 1 , �-··-······--··--··· . . --------· .. ·····-··-···------eti 
The "Paanch Nam" are the five names of God, and are used by those of the Sant Mat 
(Path of the Saints). 
1 . Y oniranjan - The first syllable sounds like "yo" as in "yoyo"; the second is 
pronounced "knee"; then "r" as in "rewind," followed by "an" as in "on"; and the last 
syllable "an" as in "John." Some branches of the Radhasoami path use Jyotiranjan in 
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LESSON 1 2 - Mantra (Japa Yoga) 
place of this mantra. Niranjan means "without blemishes," and Yoni is "the abode." 
This is the purest place. 
2 . Oangkar - "Ong" as in "song"; and "car" as in automobile. This refers to the sound of 
Om, the cosmic hum of the universe. 
3. Rarankar - "Rar" rhymes with "car"; "an" rhymes with "on"; and then ends with 
"car" as in automobile. The lord of Daswan Dwar (the tenth gate88) is Rarankar. 
Daswan Dwar is essentially what separates the temporal from the eternal realms. 
Appealing to this Lord opens up the possibility of l iberation . ) 
4 . Sohang - Pronounced ' so-hawng, ' which means "I am He" or "I am Spirit." 
5. Sat Nam - Pronounced ' sought nawm, ' which means "Truth is His name." 
Gayatri Mantra 
It is rumored that before Shyama Charan received Kriya, he practiced the Gayatri Mantra. 
This mantra comes in both long and short forms. It affirms energetically that the universe 
is connected to our own selves, and that it is divided into seven levels or "lokas." The 
short form acknowledges the lower three worlds or spheres or existence as the physical, 
astral and causal planes. And thus the mantra consists of: Om Bhur (the physical); 
Bhuvaha (the astral) ; and Svaha (the causal) . The long form appends the higher four 
spheres of existence: Maha (The mental world, or door between the spiritual and 
manifested); Janah (the abode of souls and world of pure knowledge); Tapah (the realm 
where all souls are one); and Satyam (the plane of the true reality) . The sounds are used to 
activate the chakras, and an application of their use is described in the Gaytri Omkar 
Kriya technique. The short form of the Gayatri Mantra: 
� �: "f=Cr: 1 arti�aaiuoti 1 " .:> - .:> 
� � �I I ��if� '1iil)_C\4iaJ I 
07!1 bhur bhuvab svalJ, tat savitur vare1J(i)yaf!1, 
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88 In Yoga, the tenth gate is Brahmarandhra. The nine gates are: the eyes (2) + ears (2) + nostrils (2) + 
mouth ( 1 ) + urethra ( 1 ) + rectum ( 1 ) = 9 gates or entrances into the body. The one gate that is normally 
closed is Brahmarandhra; passing through it leads to liberation. 
121 
Kriya Secrets Revealed 
Om Guru 
This is a simple mantra meaning, 'From darkness to light' . 
Literally gu means ' shadow' and ru means ' disperser' . So the Guru is one who disperses 
the darkness of soul ignorance. Some choose this mantra and think of their spiritual Guru 
when they say it. Some choose only to think of the spiritual light, such as what they 
experience at the Kutastha. 
Guru Stotra 
In the Battacharya-Sampradaya lineage, the following mantra is required to be chanted 
before and after Kriya practice: 
, 
Of!l akha1J4a- ma"f)4alakaram vyiiptam yena chariicharam 
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The Guru Stotra mantra may be translated literally as follows: Akhanda (urifi-agmented); 
Mandalakaram (one infinite whole); Vyaptam (pervades); Yena (by which) ; Characharam 
(movable and immovable); Tadpadam (that state); darshitam (has shown); Yena (by 
whom); Tasmai (to that); Shri (glorious); Guruve (guru, teacher); Namah (my 
salutations). 
A less literal translation might be: My Salutations to that Guru who revealed to me that 
Truth, which is un-fragmented, infinite, timeless divinity, and which pervades the entire 
universe -movable or unmovable. 
The purpose of this mantra is to invite God as Guru to be with us during our Kriya 
practice. The Guru Stotra mantras are not exclusive to the Kriya Yoga of Battacharya­
Sampradaya, but are practiced commonly throughout India. 
122 
LESSON 1 2 - Mantra (Japa Yoga) 
Hare Krishna 
There are several versions of this popular mantra. Many devotees understand Krishna as a 
man. However, those of true spiritual advancement understand that He is the True 
Oversoul of us all . Christ is synonymous with Krishna, for it was this same spirit which 
Hare Krishna Hare Krishna 
� crwr � crwr 1 
Krishna Krishna Hare Hare 
Hare Rama Hare Rama 
Rama Rama Hare Hare 
� � � � II 
�=============================� 
infused Jesus. You may have seen 
popularized paintings in India 
with a miniature Krishna being 
depicted in the heart of each 
person. This is because He is 
within each and every one of us. 
He is our true Higher-Self, the 
one Being who plays the i llusion 
of the many. We are the illusion: 
our minds; our history; our 
individuality. The consciousness 
of the Son is one, but spread out 
into the many. We (all beings 
within Creation) are Krishna. 
So the mantra uses three simple words : Hare, Krishna, and Rama. Hare could either mean 
the consort of Krishna or a manifestation of Vishnu who removes i llusion. Rama is 
another name for God. 
Your own mantra 
A whole book could be written about mantras, and many have been. In the end, you or 
your spiritual guide needs to decide which one is right for you. 
123 
Kriya Secrets Revealed 
Procedure 
1 . Start by repeating your newly chosen mantra aloud 1 08 times followed by 1 08 
times silently. Do this for a week. 
2. After a week (or sooner if you like), start repeating your mantra mentally when 
walking from place to place. Never forget to say the mantra aloud 1 08 times at 
some time during the day. 
3 . After another week, attempt to say your mantra at all times when your mind is 
free. Repeating your mantra while driving or operating heavy machinery is not 
necessary, and can be dangerous. The most important part of Japa is the fact that 
you are focused on something. Let that something be the task at hand only when it 
would be wise to do so. 
Suggested Daily Routine 
Technique Level 1 
Duration 2 1 minutes 
Mantra - Out Loud 5 minutes 
Mantra - Si lently 5 minutes 
Mantra - 24 hours 5% 
Nadi Sodhana* 3 sets 
Ujjayi Pranayama 3 sets 
Talabya Kriya 30 sets 
Maha Mudra 3 sets 
Navi Kriya 4 sets 
Om Japa* 6 rounds 
Kriya Pranayama 1 2-24 breaths 
Concentration 5+ minutes 
Y o:ni Mudra 2 1 -3 times 
124 
Level 2 
26 minutes 
5 minutes 
1 0 minutes 
50% 
3 sets 
3 sets 
30 sets 
4 sets 
6 rounds 
1 2-24 breaths 
5+ minutes 
Level 3 
26 minutes 
5 minutes 
* 
75%+ 
3 sets 
3 sets 
30 sets 
3 sets 
4 sets 
6 rounds 
1 2-24 breaths 
5+ minutes 
LESSON 1 2 - Mantra (Japa Yoga) 
Before going to sleep* 
Maha Mudra 
Yoni Mudra 
Date Started 
3 sets 
1 -3 times 
* Optional, 2 Only practice Y oni Mudra at night. 
This dai ly routine begins with saying your mantra out loud and then silently. You may 
have noticed that the mantra is repeated 24 hours 75% of the time. This is because , after 
some time repeating your mantra, a certain threshold is reached where the mantra 
becomes automatic . If your mind is not completely under your control, which it might not 
become until you have mastered Kriya, you may find that you are temporarily seized by 
problems of the day, and must bring it back through focusing on your mantra. When in 
doubt, either during dailyactivity or meditation, relax and repeat your mantra. If you are 
receptive and say the mantra with intention, your problem will become solved or your 
need fulfilled, either by being shown a way to help yourself, or through help from an 
unknown source. 
Graduation 
After you are able to repeat your mantra in the background of your mind, and are 
conscious of it during free time, you may move on to the next lesson. 
Yogic Wisdom - The Higher-Self 
I am blessed that I have experienced many events in my life that have proven to me that 
there is a power beyond my small l inear mind operating within its own agenda. Once, 
during my college years, while I was studying physics seated at my desk, I received a 
clear message, which I immediately recognized as coming from a divine source . 
However, the nature of the message was perhaps even ridiculous. Basically, it said very 
clearly, "Stop your studies, get up, and go to the corner market. Purchase one scratch-type 
lottery ticket and you will win exactly ten dollars ." 
This was a particularly odd message. As a yogi, I was opposed to any form of gambling. 
Skilled in mathematics (as a student of physics), I was further convinced that gambling 
could only result in a net loss; the house always wins. After all, anyone who had studied 
Game-Theory was familiar with this simple calculus . Still , I knew the voice to be genuine, 
and a certain peace and surety overcame my being. I obeyed the command, marking my 
125 
Kriya Secrets Revealed 
place in my physics book and exiting the small shack where I was domiciled. I walked to 
the comer market with one dollar and purchased a single lottery ticket. After scratching 
the ticket to reveal the hidden symbols, indeed, out of the six exposed, three were ten 
dollar ($ 1 0) marks, which meant a win. The shop owner was somewhat surprised, perhaps 
because of my non-emotional reaction as I passed the ticket back to him to be redeemed. 
After he handed me the ten dollars, I promptly returned to my shack, sitting back down 
and opening my book. 
At that moment, the meaning of the entire, albeit minor, experience hit me. I reflected 
upon the event before resuming by studies. Jokingly, I smiled, realizing that finally some 
of the money that had been promised for education from the State lottery program was 
being fulfilled ! I did apply the money towards my education, after all . 
Since that incident, I have had many similar experiences . And in each case, I was made 
clearly aware that a higher power was always in control, even over the Lottery. 
Although small examples, they demonstrate that the power of practicing Kriya Yoga 
raises our thinking to the Higher-Self, which begins as a hidden mysterious force, even 
seeming separate. As we progress with this understanding, we begin to identify more and 
more with the Supreme Being, and we start to see the little self (the natural man) as the 
separate being, or our false self. 
Indeed, the lower self is not capable of having the perfect intuition of the Higher-Self. 
However, it is capable of learning through the Higher-Self as teacher. My experience with 
the lottery ticket is an example of that ability which we all possess through the steady 
practice of Kriya Yoga. And so, the better lesson that day was not in mathematics, but of 
a more divine nature. 
126 
LESSON 13 - Mental Kriya 
Ignorance is the outward state of mind. 
Knowledge is the after-effect of Kriya. 
- Shyama Charan Lahiri 
OTHER NAMES: Mental Kriya Pranayama 
REQUIREMENTS : First Part of Kriya Pranayama 
Mental Kriya is similar to Om Japa; however, instead of being practiced before Kriya 
Pranayama, it should be practiced afterwards. Om Japa is also meant to stimulate the 
chakra, whereas Mental Kriya is meant to experience them. As with Om Japa, we focus 
on each chakra and chant Om; whereas, with Mental Kriya we spend a much longer time 
(between 1 0 to 20 seconds) on each chakra, attempting to intuitively feel it, and relax it. 
The chakras are constantly at work taking Prana and distributing it to the body. By calmly 
focusing on each one, after Kriya the chakra will naturally calm down. When this occurs, 
the breath will also slow down. However, do not make any attempt to even notice it, let 
alone control it. You are most likely to enter the breathless state, a necessary goal of the 
Kriya yogi, during the practice of Mental Kriya. Because the mind is occupied, this 
technique is superior to Dharana, which is used by some schools in place of Mental Kriya. 
Mental Kriya replaces both the need for Om Japa and Dharana. 
Procedure 
1 . After practicing Kriya Pranayama continue to sit in your Asana with your eyes 
towards Bhrumadhya. Allow the breath to flow naturally, and then forget it. 
2 . Start with focusing on the First Chakra and remain there for 1 0 to 20 seconds. Om 
can be mentally chanted, although optional . Remember to keep focus until you 
feel a release, which will be perceived as certain sweetness, or as radiating colors 
in your Kutastha. 
3. Repeat step 2 for the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th chakras. Repeat also for Bindu. 
1 2 7 
Kriya Secrets Revealed 
4. After ascending to Bindu, begin the descent, pausing in Medulla, 5th, 4th, 3rd, 2"d, 
and 1 st chakras. Om can be mentally chanted in each chakra, or you can simply 
pause for 1 0 to 20 seconds; however, never rush your practice or let your 
concentration lapse. 
5. One complete round lasts between 2 to 4 minutes . Continue this raising and 
lowering of energy for as long as it is comfortable. In order to completely relax, 
you do not need to bother keeping track of the number you are performing. Just 
repeat steps 2 through 4 for as long as it is comfortable. 
Technique Tips 
Sometimes a light is perceived in the upper part of the head. If this occurs, keep your 
awareness calmly focused there. Static Prana is experienced in the Seventh Chakra. This 
is the state that comes after Kriya, called Kriyar Paravastha89• Bring the remembrance of 
this state into your daily life as much as possible. If you are overwhelmed with bliss, or 
you start to experience euphoria or other experiences of a divine origin, you may pause 
your practice to merge your being into these manifestations. After the experience has 
subsided, simply complete your rounds. As always, the Kriyaban is detached from results, 
accepting them as they come, but not clinging onto any one in particular. Only in this way 
do we progress unto even higher experiences that we cannot at this particular time 
possibly imagine. 
Another way to vary this technique is to alter which side of the chakra to concentrate on. 
Most people experience a calming result when focusing on the backside, and an activating 
experience when focusing on the front. Traditionally, we can alternate by focusing on the 
front as we are ascending, and on the back when we are descending. 
89 Paravastha (Bengali : "'ll�"lstate because 
the object, the observer, and the senses are all separate. However, in Samadhi we are 
merged with the qual ity, and not just simply observing it; it is non-dual. There is therefore 
always a sense of finding rest, as the "striving" state we normally experience is no longer 
present. Lahiri commented often about Samadhi as it pertained to Kriya Yoga. 
129 
Kriya Secrets Revealed 
In several of his original published works ( c. 1 885 Arya Mission Institute - Amritubindu 
Upanishad, verse 6) he wrote the following about how long it would take to reach 
Samadhi using Kriya: 
Pratyahara is achieved after 12 Kriya Pranayamas. Dhyana is reached 
with 1, 728 Kriya Pranayamas. Samadhi is attained with 20, 736 
Pranayamas. 90 
It is interesting to note that 20, 736 Pranayamas can be achieved within 20 days if 
practiced eight hours per day, or after six months of practicing one hour per day. 
The major categories of Samadhi are listed below: 
1 . Savikalpa (Sanskrit: savikalpa - flraCfl(>'4) adj . Temporary. Savikalpa Samadhi 
refers to a temporary state of Samadhi where the soul is perceived. It is also 
known as Samprajnata Samadhi or Bija Samadhi. 
2 . Nirvikalpa (Sanskrit: nirvikalapa - fa:lfclCfl(>'4) adj . Not wavenng. Nirvikalpa 
Samadhi is oneness with the Absolute without any disturbance. It is also called 
Asamprajnata Samadhi or Nirbija Samadhi. 
3 . Sahaja (Sanskrit : sahaja - �) adj . Natural. In this state the person can remain in 
Nirvikalpa Samadhi, but remain active in the world, and even act naturally. 
4. Mahasamadhi (Sanskrit: mahasamiidhi - tf"l(then simply take this lesson as 
time to stop and make a more earnest effort. 
1 3 3 
Kriya Secrets Revealed 
Beginning Procedure - Level 1 
Find your meditation seat and assume your Asana. Close your eyes and focus upon 
Bhrumadhya. Reach your tongue back so that the tip touches the uvula. If you cannot get 
this far, then go back to practicing Talabya Kriya more regularly. If you cannot make any 
more progress due to no fault of yours, then determine that you will have to learn to live 
with an easier form of Kechari Mudra. This is accomplished by simply reaching the 
tongue backwards so that the tip finds a comfortable spot to point upwards. This is called 
Limited Kechari Mudra. At least with the tongue pointing upwards, the energy will still 
be going in a better direction than if the tongue were allowed to sit where it normally lies. 
Intermediate Procedure - Level 2 
Find your meditation seat and prepare as if you were going to perform concentration. 
Reach your tongue as far back as possible . You should be able to easily reach the uvula. 
Now take your index finger and reach back, pushing the tongue back into the cavity. You 
should be able to have the tongue reach behind the uvula, but not holding it comfortably. 
Normal Position 
134 
Tongue 
Phase 1 
Figure 29 - First two phases of Kechari Mudra 
Phase 2 
LESSON 1 4 - Kechari Mudra 
Advanced Procedure - Level 3 
You are now able to reach the tongue behind the uvula without the help of your finger; 
however, the tongue does not stay there comfortably. Use your finger to gently see how 
much further your tongue can go up the nasopharynx. 
Final Procedure - Level 4 
If you made it to level 3 , you should eventually find yourself mastering Kechari Mudra. 
Your frenulum is now well stretched. This means that you can assume a deep and 
comfortable ' lock' of your tongue within the nasopharynx. Daily practice of Kechari 
Mudra will keep you at level 4. 
Tongue 
Phase 3 Phase 4 
Figure 30 - Kechari Mudra Final Positions 
135 
Kriya Secrets Revealed 
Suggested Daily Routine 
Technique 
Minimum Duration 
Nadi Sodhana* 
Ujjayi Pranayama* 
Talabya Kriya 
Om Japa mentally 
Kechari Mudra level 1 
Kechari Mudra level 2 
Kechari Mudra level 3 
Kechari Mudra level 4 
Kriya Pranayama I 
Mental Kriya 
Concentration with 
Kechari Mudra 
Mental Kriya 
Before going to sleep 
Maha Mudra 
Yoni Mudra 
* Optional 
Graduation 
-----..... 
Level 1 Level 2* 
1 6 minutes 1 7 minutes 
3-12 3-12 
6- 1 2 sets 6- 1 2 sets 
30 stretches 40 stretches 
6- 1 2 rounds 6- 1 2 rounds 
5 rounds 
5 rounds 
1 2-24 breaths 12-24 breaths 
6 rounds 6 rounds 
1 -3 rounds 
Level 3* Level 4* 
1 8 minutes 1 9 minutes 
3 - 1 2 3- 1 2 
6- 1 2 sets 6- 12 rounds 
50 stretches 50 stretches 
6- 1 2 rounds 6- 1 2 rounds 
5 rounds 
1 round 
12-24 breaths 1 2-24 breaths 
6 rounds 6 rounds 
5+ minutes 5+ minutes 
Mental Kriya 6 rounds ·� 
Yoni Mudra 1 -3 rounds 
After you have reached the highest level of Kechari Mudra possible, proceed to the next 
lesson. Even if you have not achieved past Phase One, please attempt Kriya 
Pranayama with Limited Kechari Mudra. 
LESSON 14 - Kechari Mudra 
Yogic Wisdom - Pranayama 
Pranayama is the fourth part of Patanjali ' s Eightfold Path. Yama in this context clearly 
means "control ." However, the term Prana is not normally understood. Many yogis say 
Prana means "breath," and others say it means "energy." The confusion lies in the fact 
that, as with many yogic terms, there really is no direct translation between English and 
Sanskrit, especially within the context of yoga. Here, as in all languages, the same word 
can have several different meanings. 
Prana is one of the 49 currents in the body that controls bodily functions from the 
subjective point of view of consciousness . Prana is the main current upon which all are 
derived. It is not a simple energy. It is intelligent, meaning that will power can direct it 
without knowing the details as to how; the proof of its existence is in the practice. Of 
these 49 currents, there are five primary ones: 
1 . Prana (Sanskrit: priilJa - �) m. Regulates breathing and heartbeat. Upward 
·
flow 
of energy. Associated with the air element. The principle energy by which the 
other currents derive their existence. 
2 . Apana (Sanskrit: apiina - 3ftfl01) m. Current responsible for the elimination of 
waste. Downward flow of energy. Associated with the earth element. 
3 . Samana (Sanskrit: samiina - �) m . Controls the abi lity to balance, hold, and 
contract. Inward spiral flow of energy. Associated with the fire element, and 
located primarily in the abdomen and stomach. 
4. Udana (Sanskrit: udiina - 3CJif) m. Controls sound within the body. Outward 
spiral flow of energy. Control ling it al lows you to bring both the Prana and Apana 
together, resulting in Samadhi or death. Associated with the ether elements. 
5. Vyana (Sanskrit: vyiina - &llif) m. Expansion and contraction within the body, 
which occurs primarily in the muscular system. This energy connects the physical 
and subtle bodies and is distributed overall . Associated with the water element. 
In this way, Prana is actually the energy regulating the breath. Controll ing the breath 
requires that you first control Prana, which you do without realizing it when you hold 
your breath or simply slow down your respiration. In this way, both definitions are 
correct; the act of willing our breath to become controlled invokes conscious control of 
Prana. 
137 
Kriya Secrets Revealed 
As Krishna said to Arjuna, "Take the exhaling breath as the inhaling, and the inhaling as 
the exhaling." He was talking about neutralizing the breath using Pranayama. Kriya 
Pranayama, which we have seen, is the basic Kriya technique. 
Due to the mystery surrounding Kriya techniques, many beginning students believe that 
Kriya ends with Kriya Pranayama. However, Pranayama is only one of the many tools 
required. The higher Kriyas are the Omkar Kriyas. Here the techniques rely primarily 
upon our focus on Om and a form of concentration, which Patanjali called Samyama. 
So, we use the term Pranayama when we are talking about techniques involving control of 
the breath. Other techniques which do. not utilize the breath are usually given other names 
that include the terms "Kriya" or "Mudra." Kriya simply means "action," and Mudra 
means "movement." The Omkar Kriyas, although involving some breath control , are 
more related to the later stages of the path. 
Of further interest, it is said that that Udanayama is the control of Udana Vayu and can be 
used to bring Prana and Apana together in the Sushumna, thus giving the yogi control 
over the state of Samadhi, or death. Kriya yogis therefore focus primarily on controlling 
the Prana, Apana, and Udana currents. 
LESSON 15 - Second Part of Kriya Pranayama 
If one remains always and constantly in the Omkar Sound then one is stilled and 
attains yoga. Therefore just listen to the Omkar Sound. 92 
- Shyama Charan Lahiri 
OTHER NAMES: KP2, Second Part of Kriya Pranayama 
REQUIREMENTS: Kriya Pranayama I 
The Second Part of Kriya Pranayama (KP2) represents the next level of interiorization to 
the First Part of Kriya Pranayama (KP l ) . It is an intermediate step to part three. Whereas 
part one interiorizes the energy to the level of the outer spine, part two brings to us an 
intuitive awareness of the location of the chakras. With this awareness, we can better 
locate the central channel of the Sushumna and thereby bring our Prana finally inside 
Brahma Nadi and up to the head. Part two simply stops at the head, not going all the way 
to Brahmarandhra. 
Another goal of the Second Part of Kriya Pranayama is to awaken the astral senses which 
are located within the occipital region in the back of the head, above Medulla, but below 
Bindu Visarga. With this faculty you will be able to see and hearthe chakras . We started 
in Lesson 6 with physically locating the chakras, followed by Lesson 7, where we 
attempted to awaken our intuitive localization of the chakras; and now, with the Second 
Part of Kriya Pranayama, we will strengthen intuition to the point where we can hear the 
Om sound emanating from each chakra, without the need of props. 
After you have expanded your awareness over the occipital region, you will basically 
perform Spinal Breathing as before; however, this -time silently chant Om at each of the 
chakras. As with Om Japa, we wil l be using the 'ong ' as in ' song ' version of the Om. The 
goal with chanting Om here is actually to awaken our perception of the chakras, and not 
to just chant robotically. Perception involves not only sound, but also light and a feeling. 
We must infuse each Om with the intention of receiving the true essence of the chakra. 
92 Bhagavad Gita for Kriya Yogis - Chapter 2, Verse 53 
1 3 9 
Kriya Secrets Revealed 
Om is chanted in the following places, and in the given order: 1 ) Muladhara; 2) 
Svadhisthana; 3) Manipura; 4) Anahata; 5) Vishuddha; 6) Bhrumadhya; 7) Medulla; 8) 
Vishuddha; 9) Anahata; 1 0) Manipura; 1 1 ) Svadhisthana; 1 2) Muladhara. 
140 
( 6) Bhrumadhya 
Continuous Bell 
Close-up of a chakra 
within Sushumna 
Figure 31 - Second Part - Om at the Chakras 
Occipital Region 
(7) Medulla 
Medley 
(5 & 8) 
Vishuddha 
Rushing Water 
(4 & 9) 
Anahata 
Deep Gong 
(3 & 1 0) 
Manipura 
Harp 
(2 & 1 1 ) 
Svadhisthana 
Flute 
( 1 & 1 2) 
Muladhara 
Bumble Bee 
LESSON 1 5 - Second Part of Kriya Pranayam"""""�� 
Procedure 
1 . Precede this practice with at least twelve rounds of the First Part of Kriya 
Pranayama. Attempt Kechari Mudra. Keep the eyes gently raised towards 
Bhrumadhya; however, "sense" with the entire occipital region between Medulla 
and Bindu Visarga. 
2. Start by taking a Kriya Pranayama breath. As soon as you do this, mentally chant 
Om once at the Muladhara. Imagine that this si lent Om sound is activating the 
chakra, causing it to open up and release its sound and qualities. The occipital ' 
region is used as a "microphone" to hear this sound, which will be the actual 
unique sound of Om emanating from this particular chakra. In the case of 
Muladhara, this sound is like that of a bumble bee. At the same time you are doing 
this, think of the breath as moving up the Sushumna and piercing the chakra in the 
very center93 of it. 
3 . Continue to breathe in, drawing the cool energy up the spine, repeating step 2 at 
the 2"d, 3rd, 4th, and 5th chakras. After chanting Om at the 5 th chakra, bring the 
energy up to Bindu, but chant Om with your intent focused on Bhrumadhya. The 
total time of inhalation should be 1 0 to 1 5 seconds for novices, and 1 5 to 20 for 
advanced students, making the amount of time spent at each chakra only between 
2 and 3 seconds . 
4 . Hold the breath at Bindu for 2 to 4 seconds. 
5 . Now move to Medulla while maintaining your focus at the occipital region. Chant 
Om here at Medulla. Continue to hold the breath for another few seconds. 
6. Now exhale, mentally chanting Om at the 5 th, 4•h , 3rd, 2"d and 1 st chakras. The 
total time of exhalation should be between 1 0 to 1 5 seconds for novices and 1 5 to 
20 for advanced students . Think of the Prana as moving along the backside of the 
Sushumna as you move downward. 
7. Start with twelve repetitions of steps 2 through 6. After mastering this number, 
you should increase this practice to 24 steps. 
93 This center point of a chakra is also called Bindu. 
141 
Kriya Secrets Revealed 
Technique Tips 
Figure 32 - Shiva with Trident 
The technique can be improved by 
imagining that a needle is actually piercing 
the root (Bindu) of each chakra. Each 
chakra is like a point within Sushumna, 
which projects its rays outwards in the 
forwards direction. This method of 
piercing of the chakra is called Shat­
Chakra Bheda. Usually the Kriyaban 
imagines that one of the points of Shiva's 
trident is the one doing the piercing. 
There are several variants to this technique. 
The first involves pausing at each chakra, 
which you can do with a smooth breath or 
a broken breath, "AA-AA-AA." The 
second variation makes no pauses, but 
rather passes over the chakra, attempting to 
perform the transition from chakra to 
chakra in the smoothest way possible. It is said that this smoother version 1s more 
conducive to instilling a sense of peace and producing a state of Samadhi. 
The reason why you cannot effortlessly hear the Om sound is the same reason all truth is 
hidden from the average human. The body has simply become accustomed to tuning out 
this vibration. Our concentration upon the material world has gone on since before we can 
remember. This has conditioned our senses to only be aware of the external, material 
reality. We have been drawn out, coaxed and convinced by instinct and society that it is 
more important to be aware of the external world than of the subtle Om sound. 
Through Kriya, we learn the complete falsehood of these external perceptions. The Om 
sound is the source of the material world. As you hear it, you will understand that it will 
"bring all things to your remembrance."94 Although perhaps hard to believe at first, its 
awareness can give you power over the material world, but at the same time such 
contentment that you will not wish to even use that power except to help others. 
94 John 1 4 :26, Holy Bible, King James version 
142 
Obviously, such righteous power is of far greater value than any conceivable outward 
activity. A human being can only do so much. When you locate the Om, only then will 
you find yourself, the true Self you have always sought. 
The sound of Om will at first appear distant, subtler than the other sounds of the body. 
Keep focusing on it as often as you can. Perhaps you will only hear the lower sounds, and 
then others will appear. Switch your focus to the newer sounds as they surface. You could 
even hear a medley or combination of sounds . 
The lower six chakras are said to emanate the following sounds: 
1 . Muladhara - bumblebee 
2. Svadhisthana - flute 
3 . Manipura - harp 
4. Anahata - deep gong 
5 . Vishuddha - rushing water 
6 . Medulla - a combination of the other five sounds 
7 . Bhrumadhya - Continuously ringing bell 
Some say that Om manifests first as sound, because sound is the simplest to 
locate; however, in my experience peace is the first and most important manifestation of 
the Om vibration. Om can also manifest as light, joy, beauty, power, love, and wisdom. It 
is not just that it has a light, but it is Light itself; it is not that it contains joy, but it is 
Joy itself; Beauty itself; Love itself; Wisdom itself. 
Therefore, when you feel peace surround you like ' steel ' , causing you to become very 
still, then know that you are in the middle of an experience of spirit, and that the Om 
experience is not far behind. Never lose faith. Your resolve will be tested, but if you 
persist, you will overcome. It is all part of the process. 
143 
Kriya Secrets Revealed 
Suggested Daily Routine 
In addition to this routine, at some point during your day, speak 1 08 repetitions of your 
mantra aloud. Mentally chant your mantra during every free moment of your day. 
Technique Level 1 Level 2 Custom 
Duration 2 1 minutes 26 minutes 
Nadi Sodhana* 3 
Ujjayi Pranayama* 3 3 
Talabya Kriya 50 50 
Maha Mudra 3 sets 3 sets 
Om Japa* 6 rounds 6 rounds 
KP 1 1 2-24 breaths 1 2-24 breaths 
KP 2 1 2 breaths 24 breaths 
Mental Kriya 6 rounds 
Before going to s leep 
Maha Mudra 3 sets 
Yoni Mudra 1 -3 rounds 
* Optional 
Graduation 
After you are able to perform this technique without referencing this lesson (one week to 
one month), continue to the next lesson. 
Yogic Wisdom - The Sushumna 
The Sushumna is generally thought of as tube running from Muladharato Brahmarandhra 
(Bregma); however, this definition is not entirely accurate. The Sushumna is actually 
layered. Only the innermost layers of the Brahma Nadi and Chitrini Nadi actually 
terminate at Brahmarandhra. The outermost layer of the Sushumna does run from 
Muladhara, but it stops at the level of the medulla oblongata. Another layer, between 
Chitrini Nadi and Sushumna, is called Vajra Nadi. Anatomically speaking, Vajra Nadi is 
the White Matter in the spine whereas Chitrini Nadi is the Grey Matter. Brahma Nadi is 
the void in the center where the Cerebral Spinal Fluid flows. It is beyond the scope of this 
book to discuss the exact internal anatomy of the physical and astral organs, so I will 
present only the traditional visualization concepts : 
144 
Brahmarandhra 
Chitrini Nadi 
Ajna 
Sushumna 
covenng 
Figure 33 - Sushumna through the Brain 
three of the petals of Sahasrara. All six of 
the petals of Svadhisthana connect as well , 
as do all ten petals of Manipura, twelve 
petals of Anahata, sixteen petals of 
Vishuddha, and three petals of Ajna, for a 
total of 50 petals . (3 + 6 + 1 0 + 1 2 + 1 6 + 3 
= 50 petals) 
The normal restless flow of Prana in man 
The primary chakras are all contained 
within the Chitrini Nadi . The Chitrini Nadi, 
connects these chakras with the petals of 
Sahasrara. There are 50 active petals of the 
chakras, which connect to the 50 petals of 
20 layers of Sahasrara: 50 x 20 = 1 000 
petals altogether. This is why Sahasrara is 
called the "thousand-petalled lotus." The 
four-petalled Muladhara only connects to 
1-- Brahma Nadi 
p::� 
Chitrini Nadi 
� 
� I'll 
Vajra Nadi 
� Sushumna Nadi 
Figure 34 - Internal Structure of Sushumna 
can be visualized as such (please do not follow along) : 
( l ) First we breathe in through the nose or mouth. This causes the Prana to move 
down through Ida and Pingala. It is unobstructed. The induced pressure on the 
Sushumna is downward due to the influence of the downward-moving Prana. 
(2) The Prana reaches Muladhara and binds with it. The Kundalini is resting here, 
because it is a special form of Prana which· can only return to Sahasrara, and the 
only return pathway (Sushumna) is blocked. 
(3) Muladhara, having stored the Prana from the breath (lda/Pingala) , now releases it 
into its many Nadi channels. 
(4) The main channels are Ida and Pingala. When exhaling, the Prana now becomes 
Apana as it rises through them. 
145 
Kriya Secrets Revealed 
(5) As Apana rises, several blocks are encountered, meaning points which prevent the 
current from travelling through the Sushumna. The main knots are at Muladhara, 
Manipura, Anahata, and Ajna. These points are where the three central Nadis 
meet. 
( 6) Every chakra is regenerated with Prana and Apana current from the Ida and 
Pingala, and to a minimal degree from Sushumna. But through a combination of 
these three channels, they remain energized. Sahasrara, however, is hardly 
involved. 
(7) Finally, the Apana is released through the nose or mouth, and another inhalation 
occurs. This represents the movement from birth to death, unless you can reach the 
breathless state and learn to exist on Prana without breath. 
When performing a Kriya breath, the above effect is reversed. We imagine the energy 
moving up the spine when we breathe in, and moving back down when we breathe out. 
This movement slowly clears out the Sushumna, and entices it to become more active. 
The Sushumna can now be used as the principle channel of carrying Prana. When the 
breathless state happens, this is proof that it is working. However, clearing the channel 
from Muladhara to Ajna is not always enough to raise the Kundalini if the block at Ajna is 
still present. 
Partial Kundalini rising occurs sometimes during the intermediate phases of Kriya. This is 
noticeable by wonderful sensations rising up and illuminating chakras (turning the petals 
upwards) temporarily. It is temporary, because Kundalini must keep moving upwards in 
order to keep the chakra pointed up. Finally, in the end, more and more glimpses of the 
light at Sahasrara occur, as the Kundalini begins to raise our awareness to that point. A 
full awakening of Kundalini takes place when all the blocks in Sushumna are removed. 
Then the Brahma Nadi is active, and we are pulling in Prana directly from Brahman. 
LESSON 16 - Short Breath Kriya Pranayama 
I remain present near one who practices Kriya. 
- Shyama Charan Lahiri 
OTHER NAMES : Kriya Pranayama with Short Breath 
REQUIREMENTS : First Part of Kriya Pranayama 
Kriya Pranayama with Short Breath is a way of naturally moving the energy up and down 
the spine at its own rate in an interactive way, as opposed to the 'brute force ' method of 
Kriya Pranayama. Whereas Kriya Pranayama is a way of 'blazing a trail ' through the 
Sushumna, this short breath variant waits to make sure energy moves before continuing 
on; Kriya Pranayama makes no such guarantee. In my experience, the combination of the 
two different methods is essential to making serious progress. 
The usefulness of this routine is especially beneficial when a movement of energy is 
needed to be completed and directed, even if it is just a short distance. This technique also 
exercises the energy pathway in a more organic way, much like a massage. Short Breath 
Kriya is an excellent preparation for Y oni Mudra. When preceded by Maha Mudra this 
practice completes the movement of energy from the Muladhara to the Kutastha. 
Procedure 
1 . Focus your attention on the First Chakra (Muladhara) . 
2. Wait until you feel the need to start to inhale. 
3. Immediately upon feeling the need to inhale, do so for approximately one second, 
then pause at the Second Chakra (Svadhisthana) . 
4 . Again, when it feels natural to inhale, inhale for one second, and pause on the 
Third Chakra (Manipura) . 
5. When you exhale, exhale only as long as it feels natural , and then return the 
energy back down to the First Chakra, and pause until it feels natural to inhale 
agam. 
147 
Kriya Secrets Revealed 
6. Inhale again, and pull the energy quickly up to the Fourth Chakra (Anahata), and 
pause until it feels natural to exhale, bringing the energy back down to the First 
Chakra (Muladhara), and pause. 
7. Inhale again, and pull the energy quickly up to the Fifth Chakra (Vishuddha), and 
pause until it feels natural to exhale, bringing the energy back down to the First 
Chakra (Muladhara), and pause. 
8. Inhale again, and pull the energy quickly up to the Bindu, and pause until it feels 
natural to exhale, bringing the energy back down to the First Chakra (Muladhara), 
and pause. 
9. Inhale again, and pull the energy quickly up to Medulla, and pause until it feels 
natural to exhale, bringing the energy back down to the First Chakra (Muladhara), 
and pause. 
1 0 . Inhale again, and pull the energy quickly up to the Fifth Chakra (Vishuddha), and 
pause until it feels natural to exhale, bringing the energy back down to the First 
Chakra (Muladhara), and pause. 
1 1 . Repeat step 1 0, stopping as you go down the spine, from Fifth to Fourth, and 
Third to Second Chakras. 
1 2 . Repeat steps 1 through 1 1 until your breath becomes very calm, almost 
imperceptible. 
Technique Tips 
When performed correctly, one cycle comprises ten breaths. Note how much calmer your 
breathing is before and after this exercise. 
Suggested Daily Routine 
In addition to this routine, at some point during your day, say 1 08 repetitions of your 
mantra aloud. Mentally chant your mantra during every free moment of your day. 
echnique Quantity 
Main Routi ne 
inimum Duration 50 minutes 
N adi Sodhana* 3 sets 
Ujjayi Pranayama* 3 sets 
Talabya Kriya 50 sets 
aha Mudra 3 sets 
N avi Kri ya 4 sets 
P l 1 2-24 breaths 
K P 2 1 1 2-24 rounds 
ental Kriya 6 rounds 
Before Going to S leep 
Maha Mudra 3 sets 
Short B reath Kriya 
oni Mudra2 
DateS tarted 
1 2 sets 
Custom 
*Optional. 1 To be practiced once weekly. 2 To be practiced only at night. 
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Kriya Secrets Revealed 
Yogic Wisdom - Kundalini 
If you have had any previous experience with yoga, then surely you have heard of 
the Kundalini . But what is it really? By now you should be somewhat familiar with pranic 
energy. The Kundalini is essentially a coiled reserve of pranic energy (sometimes depicted 
as a serpent) . Usually the Kundalini is trapped at the Muladhara Chakra. An important 
goal of Kriya Yoga is to allow this energy to retreat back to the Sahasrara Chakra from 
where it originated. 
Because the subtle body overlaps the physical, it is located spatially within this 
dimension. The main difference between the physical and subtle, is that the subtle body is 
made from astral material. The second difference is that the subtle body distributes Prana 
instead of blood. It does this through channels called nadis. Of these nadis, there are three 
major channels: the Ida, the Pingala, and the Sushumna. These three nadis run along the 
length of the spine. The Ida runs primarily along the left side, and the Pingala along the 
right side; they also cross each other at certain points along the spine called "knots" (or 
granthi) . Normally, Prana and Apana currents run within these two nadis; however, 
during the day the movement alternates as to which current is located in which nadi. You 
can know which of these two nadis is active at any particular time by checking which side 
of your nose is more dominant (freer) than the other. The knowledge of the nadis does not 
require faith, but only sensitivity, which you will gain through practicing Kriya. 
The Sushumna is a mostly dormant nadi, located in the exact middle of the spine, running 
all the way from the Sahasrara to the Muladhara. The Sushumna is not the only nadi. 
There are said to be over 72,000 nadis in the human body. Through misuse they become 
out of balance, distributing either too much or too little Prana. Prana is a necessary part of 
the metabolic process of the human body; without it, no function could be animated, and 
death would result. 95 
Kriya Yoga is the process of purifying and repairing these nadis. Once they have become 
healed, the abnormal state of the human condition is automatically removed and health 
improves . More importantly, the trapped Kundalini energy is allowed to return to its 
source at Sahasrara. 
95 There are two types of Prana: Dynamic and Static Prana. During Samadhi, Static Prana is activated, 
which keeps the cells of the body alive, but resting in the breathless state. 
150 
How this process works is to think of the nadis as being clogged and/or knotted, and then 
cleared, allowing energy to return to spirit or descend back to matter, as you wish. 
Essentially, you wil l have control over life and death. 
Normally when an inhaling breath is taken, Prana descends through the Ida-Pingala, 
crossing over each other at the primary knots unti l reaching the Muladhara. As we exhale, 
this Prana becomes Apana as it reverses course and returns upward, this time passing 
through each chakra, distributing energy to other nadis through its 'petals ' . However, 
when applying a Kriya Breath, the Prana rises during an inhale, and lowers the Apana 
current during an exhale. This is the opposite of what normally occurs in the Ida-Pingala, 
and what is (in actuality) the function of the Sushumna.96 Only the Sushumna can take the 
Prana back to its source at the Sahasrara. Accordingly, this simple process of reversing 
the breaths awakens the central nadi, bypassing the metabolically activating channels of 
the Ida and Pingala, causing the breath and heartbeat to slow down, and even appear to 
stop. 
Simple Kriya Pranayama alone is sufficient to entice the Sushumna to open. However, it 
is not the quickest way, and in some cases, may cease to work. There are also specific 
exercises Lahiri gave his disciples in order to remove blockages. These blockages are 
called knots (granthi), which are points where the Ida, Pingala and Sushumna cross. This 
crossing tends to occur at Muladhara, Manipura, Anahata and the Ajna (the tongue). 
Maha Mudra can open the knot at Muladhara; Navi Kriya at the navel; and Kechari 
Mudra at Ajna. Standard Kriya Pranayama can be used to clear the knot at Anahata. Once 
these knots are cleared, the energy is able to take the straight path of the Sushumna. The 
first three Omkar Kriyas (Kriyas 2, 3 and 4) can also help clear the Anahata knot and 
interiorize the energy to the Sushumna. Additionally, when you are ready, the Sixth Kriya 
directly raises the Kundalini energy, while the Seventh Kriya stabilizes it. 
Ordering your techniques during each session also accentuates the effects of Kriya. If you 
start at the bottom and move your way to the top during your routine, you can coax the' 
energy to rise within the duration of your meditation session. For example, starting the 
routine with Maha Mudra, followed by Navi Kriya, then Kriya Pranayama, and ending 
with Y oni Mudra, can help raise the energy to Ajna, thus giving you a good chance of 
96 Specifically, the Brahma Nadi actually performs this function; however, in the West, the term Sushumna 
has been used to refer to any of the interior Nadis, which run from Muladhara to Brahmarandhra. 
151 
Kriya Secrets Revealed 
perceiving Kutastha. The basic four techniques of the First Kriya were actually designed 
with the four knots in mind. 
Many of us have heard that a "premature awakening" of the Kundalini can be dangerous. 
I don't believe this is accurate . What is happening is that the awakening is bringing to fore 
all our weaknesses, in order that we can be given a choice whether to overcome them or 
not. If we resist, then it is as if we are sending mixed messages to our self. On one hand 
we are asking for purification and liberation and on the other hand we are denying it. The 
secret to overcoming any of these is to practice more Pranayama. 
The heat associated with a Kundalini awakening is the actual trapped energy rising up the 
spine. When it gets stuck at a knot, such as at the navel or dorsal centers, this can become 
uncomfortable. However, the remedy is to apply more Kriya. If a feeling of heat settles at 
the navel, then practice Navi Kriya. The block, however, is sometimes lower down than 
where it is perceived. So, it could be at Anahata. If this is the case, then apply more Kriya 
Pranayama, Bhastrika Pranayama, Sushumna Sodhana, or any of the Omkar Kriyas. 
When the energy in the Ida and Pingala are balanced, then the Prana more naturally 
travels through the Sushumna. Therefore Nadi Sodhana Pranayama can also provide 
general help against stuck Kundalini energy. 
Fortunately, the Kriya Yoga techniques provide a gentler, more natural form of Kundalini 
awakening, than found in the Tantric or Kundalini Yoga paths. 
152 
LESSON 17 - Shambhavi Mudra 
Gazing at the middle of the forehead, above the nose and eyebrows, 
is a bit difficult. If one stabilizes upon this, 
then he attains the state of Samadhi. - Shyama Charan Lahiri 
OTHER NAMES : Eyebrow center gazing 
REQUIREMENTS: Concentration 
Shambhavi is one of the recommended Mudras that promises to "grant success in this 
world to yogis . 'm Its position is presented here as an option for normal Kriya Practice, but 
is highly recommended for Part Three of Kriya Pranayama. You may find it difficult at 
first, but beneficial after you have become accustomed to the position. As usual, always 
consider any of your physical limitations when attempting any Kriya technique . 
Procedure 
1 . Sit in your standard meditation pose with fingers intertwined, placed on your lap. 
2. Concentrate upon the Bhrumadhya, the point between the eyebrows, with eyes 
open. This time, however, you should slightly wrinkle the region between the 
eyebrows.Technique Tips 
This is the total lesson to Shambhavi Mudra. A more advanced form is to use closed or 
half-closed eyes, such as with the only existing picture of Lahiri as seen on page 29. With 
practice, the light tension in the eyes gradually disappears, and the position can be 
maintained more easily. 
97 Geranda Samhita (I 7'h century), p. 60; James Mall ison Translation Yoga Vidya.com 
1 5 3 
Kriya Secrets Revealed 
While practicing this pose, yogis can keep full concentration on the top of the head, 
thereby putting pressure on raising the Kundalini energy. This is a powerful meditation 
technique all on its own. Later, you will learn how to combine Shambhavi Mudra in Part 
Three of Kriya Pranayama. 
Graduation 
After you have taken the time to experiment with this position, move on to the next 
lesson. 
Yogic Wisdom - Pulling Praml 
Brahma Nadi 
Ida Pingala 
Chitrini 
Figure 35 - Knot Close-up 
Pranic nadis in the Subtle Body arise early in 
the development of the human fetus. They 
start thin and small and remain relatively so, 
even if their function is spread out to 
neighboring physical organs. The chakras 
themselves are also rather small . In fact, they 
sit within Chitrini Nadi, which sits within 
Vajra Nadi, which sits within the shell of the 
Sushumna. The Bindu or center of the chakra 
sits within Brahma Nadi . The petals extend 
out into Chitrini and connect to other nadis. 
As Kriya Yogis, we are more interested in 
the posterior Ksetram, rather than the 
anterior, which acts as the "door" of the 
chakra. The back of the body tends more to 
lead towards Brahma Nadi, the nadi we are 
trying to activate. Once this nadi is activated, we can reconnect Brahmarandhra with 
Muladhara. In truth, Brahma Nadi is directly in the center of the spine and difficult to 
arrive at. (However, there are many techniques we can employ to get here.) 
Why Brahma Nadi is difficult to travel along is principally due to the magnetic pull of the 
outer nadis, especially Ida and Pingala. These two channels run close to the Sushumna, all 
the way from Ajna down to Muladhara. At these points where the two nadis connect to 
the chakra petals it tends to pull the energy away from the center Brahma Nadi . Pingala is 
154 
LESSON 1 7 - Shambhavi Mudra 
Rajasic and Ida is Tamasic. The chakra petals connect to Ida and Pingala at Ajna, 
Anahata, Manipura, and Muladhara. 
The center of the 
body along the 
entire front-side 
from the top of 
the forehead to 
Muladhara is the 
anterior ksetram 
of the chakras 
lying within the 
Sushumna 
(Chitrini) . 
Figure 36 - The Three Meridians 
The center of the 
body along the 
entire back-side 
from Bindu 
Visarga to 
Muladhara is the 
posterior 
ksetram, or the 
interiorizing 
source of the 
chakras and the 
Brahma-Nadi 
within the 
Sushumna. 
Therefore, one of the principle goals of the Kriyaban is to redirect the flow of Prana 
through the center of the chakra. This is basically what most of the techniques are doing 
for us. Maha Mudra attempts to bypass the connection of the Ida and Pingala on the 
bottom petal of Muladhara and, instead, connect to Brahma Nadi up to Manipura. At 
Manipura, Navi Kriya will bypass the connection here as well. At Anahata, Kriya 
Pranayama is employed until the Second, Third, and Fourth Kriya can be used. The knot 
155 
Kriya Secrets Revealed 
at Ajna is defeated through Kechari Mudra, as well as with the Sixth Kriya. To some 
extent, Kriya Pranayama can defeat any of the knots . 
Once Brahma Nadi is cleaned and activated, yogis easily enter the breathless state, or the 
"Tranquil Breath" state, every time that they meditate. This is because, of course, the 
Prana flows from Spirit, and not from breath. Most ordinary humans are dealing only with 
a small bit of Prana which has been trapped in the body. The being with a clear Sushumna 
has access to the infinite reservoir of spirit coming in from Sahasrara. Anything is 
possible at that point. 
Bindu 
Concentration 
on back of 
chakra pulls 
towards Bindu. 
Vajra Nadi 
Chitrini Nadi 
Concentration 
on front of 
chakra tends 
to pull more 
towards petals 
and out into 
_.....,. the body. 
Figure 37 - Chakra Pulling in the Sushumna 
I refer to the act of focusing on the meridians as "Pulling Prana," because by doing so, we 
can balance the energy and pull it inwards and upwards to the higher centers . The trick is 
to figure out how to pass the energy through Brahma Nadi and not inadvertently through 
Ida and Pingala - a common mistake among Kriyabans. 
LESSON 18 -Third Part of Kriya Pranayama 
For great sages, a Kriya breath (pull and drop) occurs one thousand times during the 
day and one thousand times at night. Those who live in that way are called "Brahmin. " 
One such breath generally takes about 44 seconds. 98 
- Shyama Charan Lahiri 
OTHER NAMES: KP3 , Kriya Pranayama III 
REQUIREMENTS: A Minimum of 1 2 First Part of Kriya Pranayamas, and 
1 2 Second Part of Kriya Pranayamas 
The Third Part of Kriya Pranayama (KP3) is identical to the Second Part, except that 
instead of keeping our focus on the occipital region, we move it up to top of the head. We 
do this for two reasons : ( 1 ) in order to sense the chakras with Sahasrara; and (2) to pull 
the energy more forcefully through the Sushumna (Brahma Nadi) . However, we only 
perform this after the first and second part, because we must ensure that the energy will 
go through the Sushumna and not through the Ida and Pingala nadis . 
The 50 petals of Sahasrara are said to be connected to the 50 petals of the lower six 
chakras. By concentrating on Sahasrara, we create a magnet which forces the Kundalini 
Energy through the central channel of the Sushumna while turning the petals upwards . 
Procedure 
1 . The Third Part should always be immediately preceded by at least one round ( 1 2 
breaths) of the Second Part of Kriya Pranayama. 
2. Assume Shambhavi Mudra. Place all of your energy into the crown chakra, 
Sahasrara, the disk-shaped chakra on the top of your head. (Some prefer to 
visualize this image as a downward facing lotus flower, which acts like a cap on 
the brain. However, the disk shape is much more simplistic, freeing one from 
getting lost in unnecessary imaginations, which could hinder actual practice.) 
9 M Bhagavad Gita for Kriya Yogis, Chapter 8, Verse 1 7. 
1 5 7 
Kriya Secrets Revealed 
3 . Perform the Second Part o f Kriya Pranayama chanting in the prescribed places. 
Again, the sequence is 1 , 2 , 3, 4, 5, Bhrumadhya, Medulla, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 . 
4 . Start with 12 repetitions of steps 2 and 3 . Only after you are sure of your practice 
should you add another 1 2 . 
Technique Tips 
As with the Second Part of Kriya Pranayama, the Third Part may add the visualization of 
seeing the center of the chakra within the center of the Sushumna as being pierced by a 
tiny needle when the energy rises from Muladhara. This needle can be seen as cleaning 
out the blocks which lie along the Sushumna. You may either visualize this needle as also 
piercing the chakra on the way down, or simply bring the current down the back side of 
the chakras. 
The breath may pause at each chakra along with your attention, in order to bring more 
pressure upon it. Or you may apply a smooth breath. Some people swear by the smooth 
breath, while others swear by the broken breath ( 'AA . . . AA . . . AA') . 
The other way to visualize this technique is to feel that you are "hitting" the chakra with 
your mental chanting of "Om," and it is reacting like a bell with the actual Om sound. 
For some Kriyabans, this technique may awaken the Kundalini energy very quickly. 
Therefore, practice it just once each week in the beginning, and at your own level of 
comfort. Some say the technique is dangerous. I did experience a rapid awakening at first; 
however, I did not find it too difficult