Kundalini Facts

As one of the more challenging schools of yoga for experienced yogis, kundalini is best practiced when you already have yoga experience and live a yoga-centered life. Kundalini should always be practiced with a qualified instructor because it can have some surprising side effects. If you're thinking about registering for a kundalini yoga class, having a better understanding of the discipline involved can better prepare you for your first experience.

Philosophy

The kundalini philosophy revolves around a serpent. Kundalini teaches that everyone has a serpent that is coiled near the base of the spine. Kundalini yoga opens and uncoils the serpent to release a blast of energy, not unlike a spring, in the student. While kundalini yoga and the uncoiling of the serpent is usually seen as a positive experience, some might have adverse effects to the wave of energy released in the body.

Asanas

A variety of kundalini asanas are performed in an inverted position, which is why kundalini is seen as a more advanced school of yoga. Some common poses your instructor might lead you through in a class include the Eagle pose, the Frog pose and Archer pose. A well-sequenced class will begin with controlled breathing exercises using a mudra and mantra technique. Then, a series of poses will begin to awaken your serpent. Kundalini does not have a set sequence of poses, so your instructor will lead you in poses as he sees fit.

Effects

The benefits of adding kundalini yoga to your current routine are most evident in your reaction after a session. Vocal and mental expressions of the uncoiling of your serpent and the alignment of your chakras might result in feelings of elation, spiritual enlightenment and states of bliss. While most often the effects of kundalini are beneficial, occasionally you might experience shakiness, irrational anxiety, sudden bursts of heat and spontaneous performance of some asanas, which is why an experienced instructor is a must.

Getting Started

If kundalini yoga sounds like something you'd like to try and add to your repertoire, register for a class with an experienced yogi. Come to class wearing comfortable, flowing clothes, rather than the right yoga clothes you may be used to. Looser clothes made from natural fabrics will allow better energy flow while in class. Don;t sign up for kundalini yoga until you have a good grasp of hatha yoga, which includes the breathing techniques and asanas that almost all schools of yoga are based upon. This will give you a stable foundation for a challenging kundalini class.