When it comes to yoga, not all types and styles are equal. Two versions include Kundalini and Kripalu yoga. While each utilizes deep breathing and meditation in order to relax the body, their benefits and principles differ slightly. Choose the yoga method better for you through careful evaluation of each practice.
History
The roots of Kundalini yoga can be traced back to 8th-century Tantric yoga practices, according to Yoga Journal. The practice was brought to the United States in 1969. Swami Kripalvanada, also a Kundalini yoga master, founded the Kripalu yoga form in 1966, according to "The Secrets of Yoga." However, the first Kripalu yoga center was not opened until 1972 in Sumneytown, Pennsylvania.
Basic Principles
Kundalini yoga combines sound, breath and movement into one practice. Kundalini yoga is named after an ancient serpent power, according to Yoga Journal. Practitioners are asked to imagine a power coiled in the base of the spine, drawing your spirit out through breath and body control. Kripalu yoga is based upon three tenets: heal the body, grow the mind and awaken the spirit. For this reason, it is considered a holistic health -- total body and mind -- healing form of yoga.
Stages
The Kripalu yoga practice features three stages. Practitioners begin at stage one, working their way up to stage two, which is designed for practitioners who are familiar with the yoga practice. Stage three is the more advanced form; practitioners must feel comfortable with the yoga practice to attain this level. Kundalini yoga does not separate into phases. However, classes are offered at varying degrees of difficulty.
Mantras
Kundalini yoga incorporates chanting into the yoga practice, according to "Insight Journal," a publication of the National Center for Health and Wellness. Practitioners often repeat a single-word chant, such as "peace," during a session. This is designed to help your mind focus on the practice at hand. Kripalu yoga uses deep breathing, not chanting, to focus the mind.
Benefits
Kundalini yoga is designed to be intensely relaxing and is designed to boost energy while increasing spirituality. Because of its mental benefits, this yoga practice also is recommended for those overcoming addictions, according to "The Secrets of Yoga." Kripalu yoga is beneficial in healing the mind and the body. Yoga Journal terms it a type of yoga for those who wish to "transform their lives." A variation of Kripalu yoga, Kripalu DansKinetic, blends both dance and yoga for those who enjoy a carefree yoga form.
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