According to yogajournal.com, most yoga practiced in the United States is a variation of Hatha Yoga. Hatha is a physical form of yoga involving certain postures and breath work that prepares the body for spiritual meditation. Each version of yoga is slightly different and which discipline you choose to practice is based on personal preference. Kundalini exercise is a discipline of yoga incorporating postures, focused breathing and chanting.
History
Kundalini exercise was a guarded secret among yogis until the 1960s. In 1969, Yogi Bhajan decided to bring kundalini to the West. Bhajan believed that all people, regardless of their religion, could benefit from kundalini exercise and through practice, experience a great awakening.
Function
The basic belief in kundalini yoga is that everyone has a dormant energy, coiled up like a serpent at the base of their spines. Kundalini exercise is designed to awaken that energy at the base of the spine and draw it up through each of the seven centers of energy, known as chakras. As chakra energy is released, you experience a spiritual awakening and an increased awareness.
Features
Kundalini exercise incorporates yoga postures and energetic breathing, as well as chanting and meditation. During class, participants chant mantras such as, "I am truth." According to yogajournal.com, the goal of kundalini exercise is to improve the body's vitality and increase awareness. In some kundalini exercises, classes, music or a gong is used to produce transformation and encourage relaxation. Instructors of kundalini exercise usually wear white because it provides the body with good energy and is beneficial for the nervous system.
Benefits
Kundalini exercise is designed to strengthen the body, and improve health and well-being. According to yogayoga.com, a regular practice of kundalini exercise has the ability to strengthen the nervous system, provide emotional balance, improve your sense of awareness and increase energy levels. Kundalini also improves mental clarity, reduces stress, strengthens the immune system, and increases lung capacity to allow for deeper and more purposeful breathing.
Warning
Kundalini exercise is usually a gentle practice but injury is possible. Make sure your yoga instructor is properly certified and participates in a regular practice of yoga as well. Stay within your limits and range of flexibility and ask your instructor for suggestions of alternate poses if you find a particular pose uncomfortable. The warm-up portion of any exercise program is very important. Begin your kundalini exercise session with poses designed to warm up the body and prepare it for exercise.
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