An Introduction to Kundalini Yoga

July 4, 2020 / Kundalini Yoga

Woman in white clothes and a turban sits on a sandy beach at dawn and practices yoga

What is Kundalini Yoga?

Whether you’re searching for a spiritual awakening or simply wish to embark on a new physical activity, kundalini yoga could be right for you. The time-old practice is one that captivates the mind and body while unleashing endless power. Needless to say, before you take a class, you will need to understand the basics of this form of yoga. Let’s take a look at what it means, its history, and how you may use it to enhance your lifestyle.

Kundalini Yoga Definition

Combining the relaxing acts of meditation, deep breathing exercises, and mantra chanting, kundalini yoga is an at once enlightening and spiritual practice. This variation of the activity blends elements of other forms–bhakti yoga, raja yoga, and shakti yoga–to create an all-encompassing expression. The foundation of the practice allows us to receive mental, physical, and energetic benefits which we feel after each and every session.

The Origins of Kundalini Yoga As taught by Yogi Bhajan

Despite the surge in popularity of kundalini yoga in recent years, this is an art form that has been around for thousands of years. It was in 1968 when the great Yogi Bhajan brought this practice to the western world and began gathering students from far and wide. His teachings now inspire thousands upon thousands of people worldwide and are the source of much spirituality and power in the world.

The Benefits

If you’re considering taking up the art of kundalini yoga, you may first wish to hear of its many benefits. It is no mistake that this type of yoga practice has stolen the hearts and minds of the western world. Aside from being an effective and powerful form of exercise and meditation, this type of activity also unlocks a range of advantages.

1. Relaxes the mind
2. Builds confidence
3. Improves inner strength
4. Enhances energy

1. Relaxes the mind

The modern-day world is a busy and difficult place. There are countless technological distractions and annoyances. Taking the briefest of moments to simply relax and partake in the art of mindfulness is a pleasure. Kundalini yoga allows you to do just that. Through the sacred practice, you can bring some much-needed quiet to the mind.

2. Builds confidence

Building your self-esteem and confidence is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself. When you begin practicing kundalini yoga, you should find that your innate self-worth soars more than you may expect. Getting to know yourself on a spiritual level means that you can truly understand who you are. With each session, you get closer to your truth.

3. Improves inner strength

As you move through the practice, you develop a higher sense of strength and resilience. Kundalini yoga gives you time to reflect but also become stronger and more adaptable. It is a spiritual but also physical act that allows you to feel massive benefits each time.

4. Enhances energy

We all have a flow of energy inside us but, at times, it may get blocked and affect us in a multitude of ways. Morning sadhana in kundalini yoga is a way to unblock your pathways and open up your energy flow once more. Through the mantras, meditation, and exercises, you have the opportunity to connect with your inner force and utilize it.

“When you walk toward light, you have to forget the darkness. In darkness you can’t see what you’re doing, and ego is just like darkness. It is a total cloud in which you are very limited, and you won’t make it anywhere. When you are brilliant, you are flexible, smiling and everything is just all right.”
– Yogi Bhajan