The term kundalini comes from the word kundal, which means "lock of hair from the beloved." The uncoiling of this hair is said to awaken a powerful energy that exists in every human known as kundalini. Kundalini yoga uses poses, breathing exercises, sound, body locks and meditation to awaken this energy.
Yogi Bhajan
Yoga Bhajan was born in Harbhajan Singh Puri, India, in 1929. At age 8, Bhajan was sent to study kundalini yoga with his master, Sant Hazara Singh. After studying with his teacher for eight years, Bhajan went on to study at Punjab University, where he earned a master's degree in economics. He spent several years working for the Indian army and government, and in 1969, Bhajan brought kundalini yoga to the United States. Bhajan died in 2004 at age 75.
Kundalini Yoga History
The exact origination date of kundalini yoga in unknown, though records found in ancient Tibet suggest yoga was formulated over 10,000 years ago. Kundalini yoga was passed down from master to disciple for many generations. According to Bhajan, kundalini yoga was kept secret until he brought it to the United States.
3HO Foundation
The 3HO foundation was founded by Bhajan in 1969 with the intent on sharing his teachings globally. The 3HO stands for healthy, happy, holy organization. The organization is a nonprofit foundation that offers classes in kundalini yoga, meditation, vegetarian nutrition and healthy life choices. The 3HO foundation also organizes and regulates kundalini yoga teachers.
Mythology of Kundalini
In Hindu mythology, Kundalini was the name of a sexually charged goddess. The goddess was said to be a sleeping serpent that wrapped around the base of the spine, waiting for an opportunity to rise up the spine, bringing energy to each of the seven chakras, or energy centers of the body. This kundalini energy is said to bring a person to his spiritual potential.
References
- "Kundalini Yoga"; Shakta Kaur Khalsa; 2000
- 3HO: The Man Called Yogi Bhajan
- "Kundalini Awakening"; John Selby; 1992
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