Foreword

by Nayaswami Jyotish and Nayaswami Devi,
Spiritual Directors of Ananda Worldwide

You’re about to read a book that can transform your life. Kriya Yoga is much more than the latest theory for self-improvement, but is based on an ageless tradition of universal truth: the ancient science of yoga and meditation.

Yes, “ancient” because its roots go back in time to a period long before historical records were kept. Stone seals showing people seated in various yoga postures have been found in the Indus Valley of India, and have been dated by archaeologists as far back as 5000 B.C.

And, yes, “a science” because its assumptions have been tested in the laboratory of human life and consciousness over millennia and have proven to be true. In fact, modern researchers in such highly-respected institutions as Harvard Medical School and the Mayo Clinic have been doing extensive studies on the effects of meditation. Their findings show that a regular practice lowers blood pressure, improves the quality of sleep, improves concentration, reduces stress, controls anxiety, and reduces age-related memory loss, to name a few.

But the greatest benefit of Kriya Yoga, which is a technique of meditation, is the positive transformation it brings in our own consciousness. Through Kriya practice, we become aware of an untapped reservoir of subtle energy within us. By learning to direct this energy to higher centers of consciousness in the brain, we begin to experience our own highest potential.

We can say this from personal experience, since we’ve been practicing Kriya for more than fifty years. The clarity and peace of mind, increased capacity to love and understand others, and the ability to deal calmly with challenges are priceless gifts. Perhaps most important is that over time we begin to experience ourself as a part of a greater reality that underlies everything.

Nayaswami Devarshi has presented Kriya Yoga in an easily understandable and engaging way. This book is filled with inspiring, thought-provoking stories from his own life and those of others. Such a presentation of Kriya for the general public has long been needed, and is a great contribution to the understanding of how human consciousness evolves.

Another major theme convincingly presented here is that we are entering a New Age, called by the sages of India, Dwapara Yuga. According to this teaching, our planet is moving from a time in which fixed, separate forms and material thinking were considered the norms. This materialistic approach is still reflected in many entrenched religious, political, and national institutions.

Dwapara Yuga is characterized by fluid, unitive thinking and seeing things not in terms of form, but of energy. This kind of thinking can be seen in many cutting edge developments in science, business, and human relationships. Because Kriya Yoga works by awakening inner energy and the resultant fluidity of thought, it may be said to exemplify the consciousness of this new age.

This book may open doors for you that lead to greater happiness, inner freedom, and Self-awareness. As each of us transforms our own consciousness, we can also help bring about a change in the world around us. As Mahatma Gandhi so eloquently said: “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” Through sincere practice, Kriya Yoga holds the key to personal and global upliftment.

Nayaswami Jyotish
Nayaswami Devi

Introduction