The Power of Surya Kriya: From Struggle to Strength – Payal Gangwani
Last updated on February 27th, 2024 at 10:49 am
I’m Payal Gangwani, a 28-year-old physiotherapist originally from Junagadh, Gujarat. My academic journey led me to Vadodara for my studies.
So, there I was, minding my own business, when I stumbled upon Sadhguru. Little did I know, a chance encounter with Sadhguru and the teachings of Isha would completely transform my world.
For about 20 years, starting from when I was around 7, I struggled. I had this burning desire to become someone truly empowered and good. Then one day, it hit me: everything, even my life, seemed destined. But I rebelled against that notion. I was like, “No, not going to let fate decide for me. I’ll forge my own path.” This mindset has been with me since childhood. I hated vulnerability. Couldn’t stand it when someone treated me badly and I couldn’t fight back. Also, I was all about pleasing others and craving admiration.
My Encounter with Sadhguru and Self-Discovery
During my third year of college in 2016, I pondered about rudraksha. It was a time when 3G technology was making waves. Curiosity led me to search the internet, and there it was: a whole new world on YouTube. The first video that caught my eye was by Sadhguru. His clarity, his command of English, and that Western accent — it all blew me away. Never had I encountered someone explaining rudraksha with such lucidity. That moment marked the beginning of my admiration for him. Couldn’t stop raving about him to anyone who’d listen. Pretty soon, everyone knew: I was his fan.
The next day, I had an exam looming, but instead of hitting the books, I found myself binge-watching Sadhguru’s videos. I was like, “Who’s this guy?” Turns out, he’s being interviewed by big shots like Anupam Kher, Juhi Chawla, Shekhar Kapoor. Never thought I’d be into spirituality, but there I was, realizing I was spiritual, just not the religious kind.
So, there I was, trying out Isha kriya after Sadhguru mentioned about “Isha Kriya and distance”. But within five days, it got tough, real tough. I just couldn’t keep up. Then I heard him saying, “It (the distance) needs to happen, one cannot do it.” That hit me hard.
When I was struggling with my weight and even the simplest exercises felt like a challenge, I discovered Isha hatha yoga. Surya kriya, in particular, caught my attention. Quietly, without telling anyone, I went to my cousin’s place to learn it.
That day, during my Surya kriya practice, it felt like bombs of consciousness were exploding within me, reshaping my understanding of myself and my capabilities.
How Surya Kriya Reshaped My Life
Within just a week, I felt a remarkable shift. I was more alert, more alive. My lungs seemed to expand with a new capacity, and my body became notably more flexible. My mind, once a whirlwind of overthinking and self-sabotage, began to calm. I found myself gaining greater control over both my body and my thoughts.
I became more conscious of what I ate, more focused, and surprisingly, more social. Fear seemed to diminish, replaced by a sense of poise and discipline. Anger and frustration dwindled, making room for more devotion and happiness. Even my posture transformed; gone was the slouching, replaced by a proud, straight-backed stance. It was as if my entire being was undergoing a profound, positive transformation.
Nowadays, I’m feeling grounded. It’s all about consistency and practice. No more bending over backward to please others—that’s not my priority anymore. I’ve cut down on the mind games, embraced discipline, and honed my breath control. In a nutshell, I feel more liberated, and less confined by my physicality. Even though it’s been 8 years and I still struggle with Isha Kriya, I’m okay with it. I’ve noticed some changes within myself: better breath control, less compulsiveness, heightened mindfulness, increased body flexibility, a more meditative state, and a general ease in my body and inner being — all thanks to two tough years of Surya Kriya practice.