While many yoga forms have commonalities, such as a focus on breath and flexibility, some differences exist among various practices. Kundalini yoga is a yoga practice that has deep historical roots, yet is credited with practices beginning in 1969 in North America. This yoga form combines both spiritual and mental practices for the benefit of practitioners. Kundalini, to its practitioners, stands for a creative energy that helps you to live consciously, with purpose and vitality.
History
Kundalini yoga is considered to have basic roots in Tantric yoga, which is an ancient practice dating to the eighth century. However, Sikh leader Yogi Bhajan brought the kundalini yoga practice to North American in 1969. He studied kundalini yoga with his grandfather and mastered the practice at age 16. After coming to the U.S. to teach his yoga practice, he established the 3HO foundation, which stands for Healthy, Happy, Holy Organization. Although Bhajan died in 2004, his presence lives on in his teachings and commitment to the kundalini yoga practice. When taking a kundalini yoga class, you can expect your instructor to discuss Bhajan and his teachings.
Mantras
A significant component of kundalini yoga is chanting mantras, which are intended to increase your consciousness and focus. In the beginning of class, you may repeat the opening mantra "ong namo guru dev namo," which means "Infinite creative, I call on that transforming wisdom, subtle energy -- I call on that energy." After you repeat the opening mantra, your instructor will discuss any themes and mantras for the day. One common mantra is "Sat nam," which means "I am truth." You will then progress through the remainder of the class.
Class Order
A kundalini yoga class typically begins with an opening mantra, followed by discussion of any topics or exercises for the session. Next, you can expect to progress to a warm-up to stimulate your circulation and begin focusing on your breathing. You will then begin the main kriya, which is a series of poses that focuses on freeing the kundalini, or serpent energy, that is thought to be coiled at the base of your spine. After you progress through these poses, you will engage in a period of meditation, followed by a period of deep relaxation.
Asanas
Kundalini yoga consists of a progression of asana, or poses, designed to stretch and strengthen the body while stimulating the mind. Examples include the lotus pose, where the legs are crossed over each other, right over left and the feet brought in as closely to the body as possible. Another asana is the vajrasana or the rock pose. This pose involves sitting on your heels with your back straight and your hands on your knees.
Member Comments