Laya Yoga
Laya Yoga (yoga of dissolution) is a tantric yoga system emphasizing the dissolution of the mind into pure consciousness.
Overview
Laya Yoga (Sanskrit laya yoga, “yoga of dissolution”) is a tantric system of yoga that emphasizes the practice of laya (dissolution) — the systematic dissolution of the mind into its source, pure consciousness. It is distinguished from raja yoga (which emphasizes concentration) and kundalini yoga (which emphasizes energy awakening) by its focus on the dissolution of mental activity.
Philosophical Context
The Shiva Samhita describes laya yoga as the practice of dissolving the mind through meditation on the chakras (energy centers) and their associated mantras (sacred sounds). The Yoga Kundalini Upanishad adds that laya yoga involves the dissolution of the kleshas (afflictions) through the practice of dharana (concentration), dhyana (meditation), and samadhi (absorption). The Hatha Yoga Pradipika states that laya yoga is the means by which the yogi transcends the mind and realizes the self.
Interpretations
In kundalini yoga, laya yoga is the practice of dissolving the mind through the awakening of kundalini energy. In nada yoga, laya yoga is the practice of dissolving the mind through meditation on inner sounds. In modern yoga, laya yoga has been described as the “yoga of no-mind” — the practice of allowing the mind to dissolve naturally into the background of consciousness.
Verification Notes
- Shiva Samhita on laya yoga practice.
- Yoga Kundalini Upanishad on the dissolution of the mind.
- Hatha Yoga Pradipika on laya yoga as the means to self-realization.
- Audited against Wikipedia and yoga references (September 2026).