The Kriya meditation system of the Himalayan adept (siddha) lineages utilizes three methods that are combined using stepwise micro-postural movements and mental strikes (mudrÄ). These three parts include: imbibing light by sun gazing and open-eye meditation (ÅÄmbhavÄ« mudrÄ) on the sun with internal focus on the mid-point of the eyebrows; perfected internal breathing (ujjÄyÄ«) in particular circuits (nÄdi); and chanting or rumination on the primordial Oį¹ sound. Oxygenation is increased in the body by synchronizing the internal breath with rumination on Oį¹.
Breathing and quieting the mind become part of the same effort. The best results are obtained when the Oį¹ sound is repeated at about 432Hz or 528Hz. Sun gazing methods and the related mudrÄ, prÄnÄyÄma, and yoga-vinyÄsa techniques are collectively known as surya-kriyÄ, and are practiced in tandem with the sunrise. Open-eye meditation (ÅÄmbhavÄ« mudrÄ) when the sun is above 15° is practised with great care to avoid any UV damage. All of these special techniques have been systematized and revealed by Tryambaknath (popularly known as Mahavatar-babaji) and can only be undertaken when learnt properly from authentic meditation lineages.
In summary, the techniques of kriyÄyoga and its family of related meditation practices use specific ujjÄyÄ« prÄnÄyÄma techniques that recharge the blood and the cerebrospinal fluid with prÄna (vital energy) infused in the correct nÄdÄ« circuit (energy pathway related to nerves, blood vessels etc.). The group of techniques applies particular mudrÄ (postures to retainĀ prÄna) when the internal mental rumination of the primordial sound syllable is synchronized with the perception of prÄna.
Correct practice of kriyÄ-prÄnÄyÄma infusesĀ prÄna into the nÄdÄ« to attain a momentum of habitual engrossment (samÄpatti) ultimately bringing about the aftereffect saturation (parÄvasthÄ). The meditator further undertakes subtle mental kriyÄ exercises during this aftereffect poise. This kriyÄ-based approach is distinct from other prÄnÄyÄma-based meditation practices. Moreover this synchronized practice using breath, light, sound, and subtle feelings (subtle movement sensations) constitutes an internal mindful action that brings about poise and alacrity. This approach is distinct from sitting meditation where one observes and releases subtle desires by minutely watching the breath while bearing through distractions to repose in silence.