Purpose and Importance of Sodhana Kriyas in Yoga
Kriyas (cleansing process), Asanas, and Pranayama are the bases for higher yogic practices like Dharana, Dhyana and Samadhi. The fusion of body and mind should lead the aspirant into the revelation of self - realization.
Elimination of impurities by Kriyas (cleansing process or Mala suddhi) brings down the body activity to a minimum level that facilitates the body working to go smoothly. Then the body requires less oxygen to carry out its functions and there will be less production of carbon-di-oxide due to less activity in the body. This provides less work to the respiratory organ in providing oxygen to the body and eliminating carbon-di-oxide from the body.
Thus, less requirement of oxygen (O2) and less production of carbon-di-oxide (CO2) facilitates the diaphragm movements and respiration which is important in the practice of Asanas and Pranayama in particular. Prana the subtle and first unit of energy links the body and mind. Pranayama, the pause in the movement of breath, enables the aspirant to control the higher and lower centres of brain thus controlling the emotions.
Kriyas are vital in influencing the immanent powers of body in developing specific immunity, capacity to resist and eradicate the offending factors and to help the body to recoup itself. Dhauti, Neti, Nauli, Basti, Trataka and Kapalabhati are the six Kriyas, practiced in empty stomach. Cleansing materials for Dhauti, Neti and Basti should be sterilized before and after the practice. The water should be luke warm and salt mixed.
The Practice of Kriyas should be taken only under traditionally trained expert. The mastery over in Kriyas is essential for advancement in Pranayama. Kriyas, undoubtly have an important part in the Tradition of Yoga and they stand greatly supporting all other practices like Asanas, Pranayama, Mudra, Bandha and Dhyana.
Kriyas
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Reduces the Activity of the Body
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Smooth and Slow Respiration
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Facilitates the Practices of Asana, Pranayama, Bandha, Mudra and Dhyana (Meditation)
