The Classic Kundalini Kriya for Elevation: A Path to Transformation
Kundalini Yoga is often referred to as the "yoga of awareness" because it awakens dormant energy, heightens consciousness, and strengthens the body’s systems. One of the most well-known practices within this tradition is the Kriya for Elevation, a powerful sequence designed to cleanse the energetic field, strengthen the nervous system, and uplift the spirit.
This kriya is not just a physical practice—it is a deeply transformative experience that balances the chakras, expands lung capacity, and fosters mental clarity. It incorporates breathwork (pranayama), movement (asana), and sacred sound (mantra) to elevate one's state of being.
Let’s explore how this kriya benefits different aspects of our body, mind, and spirit, followed by an in-depth look at the mantras used in the practice.
The Profound Benefits of the Kriya for Elevation
The Kriya for Elevation works holistically on multiple levels:
Strengthens the Nervous System
The kriya includes dynamic movements combined with Breath of Fire (rapid, rhythmic breathing), which helps stimulate and strengthen the nervous system. A strong nervous system is essential for managing stress, remaining calm under pressure, and maintaining emotional stability.
Why is this important? A weak nervous system makes us more prone to anxiety, overwhelm, and fatigue. Strengthening it builds resilience, allowing us to respond to challenges with steadiness and clarity.
Detoxifies the Body and Stimulates the Lymphatic System
Many of the movements in this kriya involve spinal flexes, twists, and deep breathing, which help stimulate the lymphatic system—the body’s natural detox system. This process:
Flushes toxins from the organs (especially the liver and kidneys).
Improves digestion and elimination, reducing bloating and sluggishness.
Supports healthy skin and circulation, giving a radiant glow.
Why is detoxification important? When toxins build up in the body, they can cause fatigue, brain fog, skin issues, and even mood imbalances. This kriya helps keep the body clean from the inside out.
Expands Lung Capacity and Improves Oxygen Flow
Many exercises in the Kriya for Elevation involve controlled breathing techniques such as Breath of Fire, deep inhales and exhales, and rhythmic chanting. These practices:
Increase oxygen intake, nourishing cells and enhancing energy levels.
Strengthen the lungs and diaphragm, improving endurance.
Support mental clarity, as increased oxygenation enhances cognitive function.
Why is this important? Many people have shallow breathing patterns, which can lead to fatigue, brain fog, and anxiety. Expanding lung capacity enhances vitality and overall well-being.
Aligns and Balances the Chakras
Kundalini Yoga views the body as an energetic system made up of chakras (energy centers). The Kriya for Elevation systematically stimulates and aligns these chakras, ensuring a smooth flow of energy from the base of the spine to the crown of the head.
Root Chakra (Muladhara): Builds a sense of security and grounding.
Sacral Chakra (Svadhisthana): Enhances creativity and emotional balance.
Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipura): Boosts confidence and personal power.
Heart Chakra (Anahata): Opens the heart for love and compassion.
Throat Chakra (Vishuddha): Strengthens communication and self-expression.
Third Eye Chakra (Ajna): Sharpens intuition and clarity.
Crown Chakra (Sahasrara): Connects to higher consciousness.
Why is chakra alignment important? Blocked chakras can manifest as emotional imbalances, health issues, or a feeling of being "stuck" in life. Keeping the chakras balanced allows for flow, harmony, and elevated consciousness.
Boosts Mood and Reduces Stress
One of the most immediate benefits of the kriya is the release of endorphins and serotonin, the brain’s natural feel-good chemicals. This results in:
A rapid uplift in mood, helping to combat anxiety and depression.
Reduced stress and mental chatter, leading to a calmer mind.
Increased emotional resilience, allowing practitioners to handle challenges with grace.
Why is this important? In today’s fast-paced world, stress and anxiety are common. This kriya serves as a reset button, allowing practitioners to experience deep relaxation and joy.
Strengthens the Aura and Protects Against Negativity
In Kundalini Yoga, the aura (electromagnetic field) is considered a shield that protects us from negative energies. The movements and breathwork in this kriya:
Expand and strengthen the aura, creating a sense of lightness and vitality.
Clear out negative energy, preventing emotional and energetic exhaustion.
Enhance personal magnetism, making one more radiant and attractive.
Why is this important? A weak aura can make one feel drained, uninspired, or susceptible to negativity. Strengthening it creates a powerful field of protection and confidence.
The Mantras Used in the Kriya for Elevation
Sound and vibration play a crucial role in Kundalini Yoga. In the Kriya for Elevation, three mantras are particularly important. Each mantra serves a unique purpose, from invoking divine wisdom to establishing inner stability.
Adi Mantra: "Ong Namo Guru Dev Namo"
Meaning:
Ong Namo – I bow to the Divine Creative Consciousness.
Guru Dev Namo – I bow to the Divine Teacher within.
Purpose:
This mantra is chanted at the beginning of every Kundalini Yoga session to tune into divine guidance and create a sacred space. It helps:
Open the heart and mind to higher wisdom.
Establish a protective field around the practitioner.
Strengthen the connection to intuition and inner guidance.
How to Chant:
Sit in a meditative posture, hands in prayer mudra.
Chant "Ong Namo Guru Dev Namo" three times, elongating each sound.
Mangala Charan Mantra: "Aad Guray Nameh"
Mantra:
Aad Guray Nameh, Jugaad Guray Nameh, Sat Guray Nameh, Siri Guru Devay Nameh.
Meaning:
I bow to the primal wisdom.
I bow to the wisdom through the ages.
I bow to the true wisdom.
I bow to the great unseen wisdom.
Purpose:
This is a powerful protection mantra that clears negativity and ensures safety during the practice. It:
Creates a shield of light around the practitioner.
Helps remove obstacles from one's path.
Encourages trust in divine intelligence.
Sat Kriya Mantra: "Sat Nam"
Meaning:
Sat – Truth
Nam – Identity or Name
Purpose:
"Sat Nam" is the seed mantra of Kundalini Yoga, aligning the practitioner with their true self. During Sat Kriya, chanting this mantra:
Awakens the Kundalini energy.
Balances the lower chakras.
Strengthens the core and energizes the body.
How to Chant:
Chant "Sat" as you pull in the navel.
Chant "Nam" as you release.
Maintain a steady rhythm to build and circulate energy.
The Kriya for Elevation is a deeply transformative practice that uplifts the body, mind, and soul. By strengthening the nervous system, balancing the chakras, detoxifying the body, and using sacred mantras, it creates clarity, vitality, and a deep sense of connection.
If you’re looking for a practice that clears negativity, expands consciousness, and energizes your entire being, this kriya is an excellent choice.
Sat Nam!
