Yoga is much more than just physical postures and breathwork—it's a comprehensive system designed to harmonize the body, mind, and spirit. One of the lesser-known but incredibly powerful aspects of yoga is the practice of kriyas, also referred to as shatkarmas or shatkriyas. These are cleansing techniques used to purify the internal organs and prepare the body for higher states of consciousness. But how many types of kriyas in yoga are there, and what purpose do they serve?
What Are Kriyas in Yoga?
The term kriya comes from the Sanskrit root kri, meaning “to do” or “to act.” In yogic terminology, kriyas are specific internal cleansing techniques used to eliminate toxins, clear energy pathways, and maintain physical and mental health. These practices are foundational in Hatha Yoga, especially as described in ancient texts like the Hatha Yoga Pradipika and Gheranda Samhita.
How Many Types of Kriyas in Yoga?
If you're asking how many types of kriyas in yoga are recognized traditionally, the answer lies in the six classical purification techniques known as the Shatkarma or Shatkriyas. “Shat” means six, and “karma” refers to action—together, they represent six yogic actions for cleansing the body.
Here are the 6 types of kriyas in yoga:
- Neti (Nasal Cleansing)
Neti is a technique used to cleanse the nasal passages. The two main types are Jala Neti (using water) and Sutra Neti (using a waxed string). This practice helps remove mucus and blockages from the nasal cavity, improving breathing and mental clarity. - Dhauti (Digestive Tract Cleansing)
Dhauti is aimed at cleansing the digestive tract. There are several subtypes, such as Vamana Dhauti (voluntary vomiting) and Vastra Dhauti (swallowing a cloth). These techniques are believed to detoxify the stomach and esophagus. - Nauli (Abdominal Churning)
Nauli involves massaging and toning the abdominal muscles and organs by isolating and rolling the abdominal muscles in a wave-like motion. This stimulates digestion, strengthens the core, and balances the internal energy. - Basti (Colon Cleansing)
Similar to an enema, Basti cleanses the colon by drawing water into the large intestine and expelling it to remove waste. There are two main methods: Jala Basti (using water) and Sthala Basti (a dry technique using air). - Kapalabhati (Frontal Brain Cleansing)
Often practiced as a breathing technique, Kapalabhati involves rapid, forceful exhalations and passive inhalations. It energizes the mind, clears the nasal passages, and purifies the lungs and respiratory system. - Trataka (Gazing Practice)
Trataka involves fixing the gaze on a single point or object, such as a candle flame, without blinking. This cleanses the eyes, improves concentration, and prepares the mind for meditation.
Why Are Kriyas Important?
Kriyas are not just physical exercises—they are powerful tools for deep internal cleansing. By removing toxins and impurities from the body, kriyas help to:
- Enhance digestion and assimilation
- Improve respiratory function
- Sharpen mental focus and clarity
- Prepare the mind and body for meditation
- Balance the body's energetic systems (chakras and nadis)
In traditional yoga, it is said that the body must be purified before deeper spiritual practices like pranayama (breathing techniques) and dhyana (meditation) can be truly effective.
Can Beginners Practice Kriyas?
While some kriyas like Jala Neti and Kapalabhati can be safely practiced by beginners under proper guidance, others like Nauli and Dhauti require a higher level of physical awareness and should be learned only under the supervision of an experienced yoga teacher. It's essential to approach kriyas with caution, understanding, and respect for the traditional methods.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're exploring the deeper dimensions of yoga and wondering how many types of kriyas in yoga there are, the answer lies in the six foundational techniques of Shatkarma. These kriyas are powerful practices for cleansing the internal systems and paving the way for spiritual evolution. Incorporating them into your yoga routine—when done safely and correctly—can bring about profound physical and mental benefits, enhancing your overall yogic journey
