3 Ways To Do A Kundalini Yoga Beginner's Series

1. Understanding the Power

Kundalini yoga is a powerful form of transformative energy work that opens up latent energy centers along the spine called chakras. It is believed that Kundalini lies within everyone, but few people awaken this powerful energy in their lifetimes. Kundalini yoga practice requires dedication and patience. As the chakras open through breath work, asanas (or yoga postures), and meditation, the untapped resources of the mind and body also open. Most people go through a highly guided process of Kundalini awakening as it can be a profoundly changing, occasionally traumatic experience. You should work with a guru who can help you through the process and ease you into opening the power of the serpent.

2. Learning to Breathe Again

Learning how to control the breath is part of the transformative benefit of the Kundalini. The Breath of Fire is a powerful breathing technique that utilizes rapid inhaling through the nose and pushing the air out with the stomach to create a powerful, energetic change within the body. However the breath of fire should be integrated slowly into the yoga routine and the benefits of slow controlled breathing should be learned first. Inhaling through the chest, expanding your abdomen but not allowing the chest to move until the abdomen has contracted is called "pranayama," which simply means breath control.

3. Connect With Your Body

Yoga asanas should first be practiced under the direction of an experienced guru. Many Kundalini asanas are relatively easy but involve intense breathing sequences that can exhaust you. Your first Kundalini session, complete with asanas, should be performed in comfortable, loose clothing while barefoot and sitting on a mat. You should learn the basic mundras (hand movements) that accompany each asana. Placing the tip of your thumb on your ring finger can bring about clarity and knowledge, while placing the tip of your thumb on the middle finger will bring patience and compassion. The nerve endings in your body work to create inner peace and balance specific physical functions. Take it slowly in your first class and don't push yourself farther than you feel ready.

Last updated on: Nov 18, 2009

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