What Are Yogic Kriyas? A Deep Dive into Yogic Cleansing Techniques

If you've started exploring the deeper dimensions of yoga beyond asanas (postures) and pranayama (breath control), you've likely encountered the term kriyas. But what are yogic kriyas, really? Simply put, yogic kriyas are internal cleansing practices rooted in the ancient yogic system, aimed at purifying the body, mind, and energy pathways to facilitate spiritual growth and physical well-being.

Understanding the Term "Kriya"

In Sanskrit, kriya means "action" or "completed action." In the yogic context, it refers to a specific set of techniques designed to cleanse the internal organs, balance the body’s energies, and prepare the practitioner for deeper meditation and spiritual awareness. Unlike general yoga exercises, kriyas are more subtle and often target the nervous system, digestive system, and mental state.

The Purpose of Yogic Kriyas

So, what are yogic kriyas used for? Their primary goal is purification—both physical and energetic. According to yogic philosophy, impurities in the body and mind block the free flow of prana (life force energy). These blockages can manifest as illness, fatigue, mental fog, or emotional instability. Kriyas help remove these obstacles, creating a clear and balanced internal environment.

By incorporating kriyas into your yoga practice, you may experience benefits such as:

• Improved digestion and metabolism
  
  

• Enhanced concentration and mental clarity
  
  

• Increased energy levels
  
  

• Detoxification of internal organs
  
  

• Emotional stability and reduced anxiety
  
  

• A deeper connection to your spiritual self
  
  

The Six Classical Shatkriyas

Traditional yogic texts like the Hatha Yoga Pradipika and Gheranda Samhita describe six main kriyas, known collectively as Shatkarma or Shatkriyas. Each of these serves a specific cleansing function:

1. Neti – Nasal cleansing (e.g., using a neti pot) to remove mucus and clear the sinuses.
   
   

2. Dhauti – Internal cleansing of the digestive tract, sometimes involving saltwater.
   
   

3. Nauli – Abdominal massage using muscular contractions to stimulate digestion and detoxify.
   
   

4. Basti – Colon cleansing, often considered a yogic enema.
   
   

5. Kapalabhati – A form of breathwork that clears the lungs and energizes the mind.
   
   

6. Trataka – Concentrated gazing, usually at a candle flame, to improve focus and purify the mind.
   
   

These kriyas are not just physical techniques; they’re deeply tied to mental and energetic purification. Practiced under proper guidance, they can awaken dormant energies and bring profound changes in one's health and awareness.

Modern Adaptations and Cautions

While the traditional kriyas are powerful, they must be practiced with care—preferably under the guidance of a trained yoga teacher or therapist. Some methods, like Dhauti or Nauli, can be intense for beginners or those with certain medical conditions.

In modern yoga, some kriyas have been adapted or simplified for accessibility. For example, Kapalabhati is widely taught in yoga classes for its energizing and detoxifying effects, often without being labeled a kriya.

Final Thoughts: What Are Yogic Kriyas Really Offering?

So, what are yogic kriyas offering us in the modern world? Beyond their ancient roots, they provide a timeless system for resetting and revitalizing the entire being. Whether you're looking to boost your physical health, calm your mind, or deepen your spiritual practice, kriyas offer a powerful toolkit.

When integrated mindfully into a regular yoga practice, kriyas become more than just cleansing techniques—they serve as a bridge between the outer and inner self, guiding you toward balance, clarity, and transformation.