De-Mystifying Kundalini Yoga

Kundalini yoga as taught by Yogi Bhajan is also known as the yoga of awareness. Yogi Bhajan brought this type of yoga to the west in 1969. The techniques are simple and can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of age or physical ability. The complete practice includes breath (pranayam), postures (asanas), chanting (mantra) and meditation. The objective is for the practitioner to experience their higher consciousness.

The translation of kundalini is ‘the curl of the lock of the beloved’. It is a metaphor to describe the universal energy and consciousness that exist in each of us. The definition of yoga or “yoke” is the union of individual consciousness and universal consciousness. Yoga can be looked at as a process that can contribute to better physical, mental, and emotional health.

BREAKDOWN OF A KUNDALINI CLASS: Each kundalini yoga class is always started by tuning in with the “adi mantra” which is Ong Namo Guru Dev Namo. The translation is “I call on the divine teacher or the universal wisdom within”.

A general kundalini yoga class will have at least 30 to 45 minutes of yoga, followed by a 10 minute relaxation and then an 11 minute meditation. A kundalini yoga class will always end with a special blessing song, which can either be sung or recited. The words are “May the long time sunshine upon you. All love surround you. And the pure light within you, guide your way on”.

The regular practice of kundalini yoga stimulates and balances the nervous and immune systems and improves strength and flexibility. During the very first class you may even experience yoga rewards, which include relief from back pain, stress, and insomnia. Increase your mental energy, heighten your concentration and allow yourself to experience inner calm by taking a kundalini yoga class.

TIPS: Wait at least 1 to 2 hours after eating to do yoga. When practicing kundalini yoga on a hard surface, such as a wood floor, be sure to cushion it with a yoga mat or blanket. A light natural fabric shawl or blanket is suggested for meditation and deep relaxation. Clothing for yoga should be comfortable attire with an elastic waist made from a natural fabric such as cotton. Drink water after your practice for re-hydration and balance.

This article was written by Guru Ardas Kaur, as a patient education resource for The Center For True Harmony Wellness and Medicine. Edited and revised by Sherry VanGoethem, Dr.Christine Brass-Jones OBGYN, and Dr. Denise Quance Grobe N.D. If you have any questions or comments contact the office at (480) 539-6646 or through email at info@trueharmonywellness.com