Kundalini yoga, a powerful form of yoga, coordinates breath with movement and meditation. Kundalini yoga burns calories while strengthening the muscles and the mind. The combined effects of Kundalini yoga can contribute to increased relaxation, health, and overall well-being. If you are interested in practicing Kundalini yoga, look for a certified instructor in your area, and speak to your physician to ensure that Kundalini yoga is right for you.
Yoga
Yoga has been utilized as a means to achieve mental clarity through physical practice for thousands of years. Yoga originated in India and has since gained popularity in mainstream US culture. With its increase in popularity has come an increase in scientific studies of its effects. As reported by ABC News, studies show yoga helps burn calories for weight loss. Such studies have helped to address the misconception that yoga does not provide a caloric workout.
Kundalini Yoga
Kundalini yoga is based upon the principle of overall balance. It was originally taught by Yogi Bhajan as a path to achieving mental well-being, physical health and spiritual understanding. Kundalini yoga uses kriyas, or specific sets of exercises and meditations, to achieve these effects. There are over 7,000 kriyas utilized by Kundalini instructors, each of which vary in intensity and challenge. Dependent upon the particular instructor, the specific kriyas, and your body, the practice of Kundalini yoga can burn anywhere from approximately 100 to over 300 calories per hour.
Weight Loss
Much of the evidence of weight loss from Kundalini yoga is anecdotal. However, instructor Elizabeth Andes-Bell noted on ABC News that the main weight loss benefit of yoga is that it balances metabolism. Further, instructor Nirvair Singh Khalsa explained for the website Calorie Counter that the balance achieved through Kundalini yoga helps develop self awareness and positive life habits that contribute to losing or stabilizing weight.
Practice
In order to practice Kundalini yoga, it is best to start with a certified and experienced instructor. However, if an instructor is not accessible for you, you can also use an instructional DVD. It is recommended by Khalsa to practice Kundalini yoga on an empty stomach and to drink plenty of water throughout the day following a class. Khalsa also recommends daily walks to supplement the benefits of Kundalini yoga. Maintaining a balanced diet will also improve the practice and benefits of Kundalini yoga.
Benefits
Daily practice yields the best results. However, a minimum of two sessions per week helps achieve results. Khalsa also explains that the feelings of relaxation and well-being offered through Kundalini yoga should happen immediately, whereas the substantial results of calorie burning will be noticeable after about 90 days. Ultimately, practicing Kundalini yoga on a regular basis can offer you increased awareness and can help you to improve the quality of your physical, mental and emotional states.
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