Kriya yoga practice is not for the superficially interested person who is merely curious; emotionally immature; inclined to indulge in fantasy; or addicted to mental attitudes, moods, or habitual behaviors which perpetuate illusions and delusions.
Illusions are inaccurate or mistaken perceptions of words, ideas, feelings, things, or circumstances. Illusions which are believed to be true are delusions.
It should be clearly understood that, for optimum benefits to be experienced by study and practice of these principles, one must be disciplined in the practical application of what is learned, and fully committed to the nurturing and actualization of authentic spiritual growth. Spiritual growth is authentic or real when the effects of its transformative influences are evident in our lives. The results of attentive study and diligent, right practice are:
• Enhanced intellectual and intuitive powers.
• Psychological transformation.
• Improved functional abilities.
• Orderly unfoldments of innate knowledge.
• Mental illumination.
• Progressive clarification of awareness.
• Spontaneous emergence of cosmic conscious states.
• Self-realization.
• God-realization.
• Liberation of soul awareness.
The novice kriya yoga student should first become familiar with the philosophical concepts and the lifestyle regimens (and their purposes) upon which practice is based. Knowledge of beginning, intermediate, and advanced meditation practices and routines should then be acquired. It should be understood that although knowledge and practice of meditation methods is important, everything that is done to nurture total well-being and to live effectively is of equal importance. At each stage of progressive awakening to authentic Self- and God-knowledge, the devotee’s new state of awareness must be harmoniously integrated with the mind, personality, and body. This process is most effectively accomplished by appropriate, conscious living.
As skillful living becomes spontaneous, and proficiency in meditation practice improves, a sequential series of advanced meditation techniques can be learned. When these have been effectively practiced for a period of time and one is fully prepared, initiation, and instruction in more intensive meditation practices may be requested.
