Simha Kriya FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions on Simha Kriya

1. What is the minimum age one can do it?

6 years

2. Is there any upper age limit?

70 years

Those below 6 years of age and those above 70 years of age can also do the practice, but they must do the breathing 12 times only (not 21 times).

3. Who can do the practice?

Anyone can do the practice, including pregnant women, women during their menstrual cycle, and those suffering from chronic ailments or any other medical conditions (like asthma, migraine, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, lung related diseases, glaucoma, cataract, retinal detachment, hernia, etc.)

People with brain hemorrhage or brain tumor can also do the practice, but they must do the breathing 12 times only (not 21 times).

4. How long should I wait after undergoing a surgery before I resume the practice?

After a major surgery – wait for 6 months

After a minor surgery – wait for 6 weeks

5. I am not able to sit on the floor. Can I still attempt the practice?

It is best to attempt it sitting on the floor. You can make use of cushions or some other padding for support that will make it easier for you to sit. However, if it is still too difficult for you to sit on the floor, you can sit on a chair. Sit with your legs crossed at the ankles and do the practice. It is not the best way to sit and the practice will be so much more effective when you sit on the floor.

6. How long should I wait after my meal to do this practice?

Do not do the practice immediately after eating. Allow at least 2.5 hours after a meal.

7. Can I eat immediately after the practice?

Yes. You can eat or have a beverage that is at room temperature immediately after practice. Wait for 10–15 minutes before consuming something refrigerated.

8. Can I teach someone how to do the practice if they are unable to watch the video?

No. The kriya is a very subtle science. A distilled essence has been presented to you in these challenging times. Yogic practices have the power to transform your life if done properly, so it generally takes years of training to ensure they are imparted in the right way. You can use the video as a device to offer the kriya to others. If you are interested in teaching this and other practices, please contact us to find out more about the Teacher Training Program.

9. After doing the practice, can I take a bath immediately?

After the practice, wait for 15–20 min. before taking a hot bath and 25–30 min. before taking a cold bath.

10. How many times a day can I do this practice?

2–3 times a day, as indicated in the video.

11. How much gap between two practices?

Maintain a gap of at least 4 hours between two practices.

12. The practice is very powerful. Can I increase the count beyond 21? (Say 42, 63, etc.)

No. It is very important to do the practice exactly as instructed. Sadhguru says that if you increase the count, it may cause serious damage to the system.

13. Can I do more cycles of 21 counts in one sitting (say 2 or 3 cycles of 21 counts, or more)?

No.

14. If I'm not able to do the breathing 21 times, can I do less?

Yes, you can do 12 times.

15. Does the head have to be upturned?

Yes. Your head should be slightly upturned.

16. During the last part of holding the breath, should I still be pushing my shoulders up?

Yes.

17. I cannot hold my breath for at least 30 seconds. Can I still do the practice and work towards increasing the duration of holding my breath?

Yes.

18. Is there any specific order to incorporate this practice with other Isha practices?

There is no specific order.

19. Any guidelines about where to do it and any precautions to take?

There are no specific precautions. Just ensure that the air is clean and the space is clean, hygienic, and well ventilated.

If there are other people in the room, keep sufficient space around you.

20. Can I lie down/do Shavasana after this practice?

No.