Yoga is more than just a physical practice—it is a holistic lifestyle that integrates the body, mind, and spirit. Among the various aspects of yoga, one of the most powerful yet often overlooked elements is the practice of kriyas. These are yogic cleansing techniques designed to purify the internal systems of the body and prepare practitioners for deeper meditation and self-realization.
A common question that arises among yoga enthusiasts is: how many types of kriyas in yoga are there, and what purpose do they serve? In this article, we will explore the different types of kriyas, their benefits, and how they are practiced in traditional yoga systems.
What Are Kriyas?
The term “kriya” comes from the Sanskrit root “kri”, which means to do or to act. In the yogic context, kriyas are specific techniques or actions meant to cleanse the body and mind. They are often considered preliminary practices that help remove physical and energetic blockages, making the body a suitable vessel for higher spiritual experiences.
Kriyas are often part of Hatha Yoga and Kundalini Yoga, where they serve as purification techniques or sequences of movements, breathwork, and sounds that help awaken the body’s energy centers, or chakras.
So, How Many Types of Kriyas in Yoga Are There?
In classical Hatha Yoga, there are six major types of kriyas, known collectively as the Shatkarma or Shatkriyas. These six kriyas are designed to purify different systems of the body and are considered essential for serious yogic practitioners. Here’s a breakdown of each:
1. Neti (Nasal Cleansing)
Neti is a technique used to clean the nasal passages. There are two main types:
- Jala Neti – using warm saline water.
- Sutra Neti – using a waxed cotton thread.
Benefits: Improves breathing, removes sinus blockages, and enhances mental clarity.
2. Dhauti (Cleansing of the Digestive Tract)
Dhauti involves cleaning the alimentary canal using different methods such as:
- Vamana Dhauti – induced vomiting with saltwater.
- Vastra Dhauti – swallowing a long strip of cloth and pulling it back.
- Danta Dhauti – oral hygiene practices.
Benefits: Removes toxins, improves digestion, and balances the stomach’s pH.
3. Nauli (Abdominal Massage)
Nauli involves the churning of abdominal muscles to massage internal organs.
Benefits: Stimulates digestion, strengthens core muscles, and balances the solar plexus chakra.
4. Basti (Colon Cleansing)
Basti is a yogic enema technique used to clean the colon.
- Jala Basti – using water.
- Sthala Basti – dry method using air.
Benefits: Detoxifies the colon, improves bowel health, and boosts immunity.
5. Kapalabhati (Skull Shining Breath)
Though often considered a pranayama (breathwork) practice, Kapalabhati is also a kriya due to its cleansing nature.
Benefits: Clears nasal passages, energizes the mind, and detoxifies the lungs.
6. Trataka (Concentrated Gazing)
Trataka involves gazing steadily at a fixed object, often a candle flame, without blinking.
Benefits: Improves concentration, cleanses the eyes, and enhances mental focus.
Kriyas in Kundalini Yoga
Apart from the traditional Shatkarmas, Kundalini Yoga also incorporates kriyas, but in a broader sense. In this tradition, kriya refers to a complete set of practices combining:
- Asanas (postures)
- Pranayama (breathing techniques)
- Mudras (hand gestures)
- Bandhas (energy locks)
- Mantras (chants)
These kriyas are used to awaken kundalini energy and bring balance to the chakras. There are hundreds of kriyas in Kundalini Yoga, each designed for a specific physical, emotional, or spiritual purpose.
Importance of Practicing Kriyas Safely
While kriyas offer numerous health and spiritual benefits, they should always be practiced under the guidance of a qualified yoga teacher, especially the more intense cleansing techniques like Dhauti or Basti. Improper practice can lead to discomfort or even harm, so proper instruction is essential.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever wondered how many types of kriyas in yoga exist, the answer varies depending on the tradition. In classical Hatha Yoga, there are six foundational kriyas known as the Shatkarmas, while in Kundalini Yoga, the term encompasses a wide array of energetic practices. Regardless of the style, kriyas play a vital role in detoxifying the body, balancing energy, and preparing the practitioner for higher states of consciousness.
By incorporating kriyas into your practice with mindfulness and discipline, you can unlock deeper levels of vitality, clarity, and spiritual growth.