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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kundalini Yoga? How is Kundalini Yoga different from other types of Yoga? Can I attend Kundalini Yoga classes if I am new to yoga? What do I need to bring to a Kundalini Yoga class? What can I expect in a Kundalini Yoga class? What is Kundalini? What are Chakras? What is mantra? What is the purpose of using sound in Kundalini Yoga classes? Why do some Kundalini Yoga classes use the gong? How often should I practice Kundalini Yoga? What is Sadhana? Why do teachers of Kundalini Yoga often wear white? Why do some teachers of Kundalini Yoga have two names? Why do some teachers of Kundalini Yoga wear turbans or head coverings? Is yoga or Kundalini Yoga associated with a religion? Who is Yogi Bhajan? How can I learn more about the basics of Kundalini Yoga? How can I gain an in-depth knowledge of all aspects of Kundalini Yoga? What are the best Kundalini Yoga products to use for a home practice? Is Kundalini Yoga available in other states and countries?
What is Kundalini Yoga?
How is Kundalini Yoga different from other types of Yoga?
Kundalini Yoga contains the elements of all forms of Yoga. It includes physical postures and movements (asana), meditation, breath work (pranayam), and chanting (mantra). Kundalini Yoga is taught in prescribed sets of exercises (kriyas) and is taught in its pure and complete form. The teacher does not make up exercises or series. Kundalini Yoga is a physical practice but it also encompasses a meditative focus that makes it good for stress relief and emotional balancing- in addition to the physical benefits.
Can I attend Kundalini Yoga classes if I am new to yoga?
Yes! Kundalini Yoga is great for students of all levels of experience. Beginners should start with any starred classe on our class schedule or a Beginner’s Series. Star classes are on-going classes that include a mix of students and provide a great introduction to Kundalini Yoga. Everyday new students start with these classes. These classes are offered every day of the week, at times to fit any schedule, and allow students to start anytime. View our Class Schedule for a listing of Star classes.
Beginner’s Series classes are 4-week courses (2 classes per week) that students pre-register for. The beginner's series classes cover basics of Kundalini Yoga and progress each week with the same group of students. This is a great way to get a foundation in Kundalini Yoga. Visit our Beginner's Series page for a listing of upcoming Beginner Series.
What do I need to bring to a Kundalini Yoga class?
For most classes, you do not need to bring anything but yourself. Most classes are held in carpeted rooms so yoga mats are not necessary (but you are welcome to bring one if you like.) Our rooms are equipped with blankets, pillows and bolsters (wide support pillows) that you are welcome to use. Many students like to lay out a blanket to practice on. Blankets can also be used for covering up to maintain warmth during meditation and relaxation. Pillows can provide comfort for sitting (slip the edge under your hips) or for relaxation. Bolsters soothe a tired back during relaxation if you place one under your knees (legs extended).
What can I expect in a Kundalini Yoga class?
Each Kundalini Yoga class follows a similar structure designed for optimal results physically, mentally, and emotionally. All Kundalini classes begin with a time for centering. The teacher leads the class in the mantra, “Ong Namo, Guru Dev Namo.” This mantra means, “I call upon my own inner guidance, the teacher within me.” Students may chant or listen, as they like. The class then is lead in 10-20 minutes of warm-up exercises, which prepare the body for the yoga sets (kriyas) that follow. After warm-ups, yoga sets (kriyas) are begun. Each yoga set involves physical postures (asana), breath work (pranayama) and meditative focus. Yoga is followed by a short meditation. Class ends with a long, deep relaxation that allows time for regeneration, stress release, and peace. Each class closes with a song of blessing, in which students can sing along or listen. The words to this song are “May the long time sun shine upon you, all love surround you, and the pure light within you guide your way on.” After class, yogi tea is served and students may relax or visit. At this time, the teacher is also available to answer questions.
What is Kundalini?
Kundalini energy is the energy of awareness. Yogicly, it is taught that this energy of awareness lies dormant within us until through yoga, meditation, or spiritual practices, we begin to awaken it. Once this energy is awakened, we see reality more clearly, exist more in the present, and are spiritually connected. Simply put, awakening our “kundalini” is just awakening our own awareness and consciousness.
What are Chakras?
Chakras are energy centers in the body. Each corresponds to a different part of the body (starting at the base of the spine and moving up to the crown of the head). Learning about the chakras is a way of bringing balance to mental and physical issues through energetic techniques. Chakras may be mentioned in Kundalini Yoga classes but it is not necessary to be familiar with such concepts before attending class.
What is mantra? What is the purpose of using sound in Kundalini Yoga classes?
Mantra is use of specific sounds to change the consciousness of the mind and chemistry of the brain. Mantras, like words, have a meaning (most are expressions of oneness and unity with the Infinite). However, the effect of the mantra comes from more than just it’s meaning. Each sound is a formula, causing the tongue to strike specific points in the mouth. These points trigger response in the brain. Some mantras are used silently. In this case, it is a mental focus for the mind. Use of mantra is a fun and uplifting experience. It is a part of all Kundalini Yoga classes, at some point. Students who are uncomfortable with use of mantra are not required to chant and may enjoy just listening.
Why do some Kundalini Yoga classes use the gong?
How often should I practice Kundalini Yoga?
Ultimately, a yoga practice is best done daily. (Even a few minutes every day can make a big difference!) This gets you centered for your day and provides maximum progression. But any practice, however often, will be beneficial. Two to three times a week will provide noticeable results. Many people find that they feel so good when they do yoga, they want to do more and more!
What is Sadhana?
Sadhana is a daily personal practice. In the Kundalini Yoga tradition, it is suggested that a personal practice be done early in the morning, ideally before sunrise! This time is the optimal time for spiritual practice and it prepares you for the day ahead. However, a sadhana practice can be done at any time. Sadhana can be a few minutes of meditation when you wake in the morning, it can be a yoga class you attend, or it can be any spiritual practice. It is a practice of connecting to your spirit in a focused and conscious way.
Why do teachers of Kundalini Yoga often wear white?
For the practice of Kundalini Yoga, it is helpful to wear white, natural fiber clothing. The color white is good for the body energetically and for the nervous system. Natural fiber clothing (cotton is suggested) allows the body to breathe and is comfortable during yoga.
Why do some teachers of Kundalini Yoga have two names?
Many teachers of Kundalini Yoga request a “spiritual name”. This is a name that is given by Yogi Bhajan, the master teacher of Kundalini Yoga. It represents the highest purpose of the person who is called by that name. A spiritual name is like a personal mantra. Many Kundalini Yoga teachers use both their birth name and their spiritual name; these teachers have two names given for them on the schedule and are happy to be called by either name.
Why do some teachers of Kundalini Yoga wear turbans or head coverings?
Head coverings of any kind are useful for a meditative practice. Turbans in particular are useful for holding energy in, and for creating a meditative focus at the third eye point (brow point). In addition, the turban provides a nice cranial adjustment. Some teachers wear a turban or head covering for these yogic reasons alone.
Is yoga or Kundalini Yoga associated with a religion?
No. Kundalini Yoga (and yoga in general) is a technology for health and consciousness that predates religion. It is practiced by people of all faiths. Our teachers represent many paths including Christian, Buddhist, Jewish, Sikh, and others. Teachers who visually exemplify a religious path (such as Sikh teachers who wear turbans as part of daily attire) do so because of their personal beliefs.
Who is Yogi Bhajan?
How can I learn more about the basics of Kundalini Yoga?
Attending starred classes (offered as part of our ongoing Class Schedule) provides information along with the experience. It is suggested that new students attend at least 8 Star Kundalini classes before trying other classes. In addition, we offer Beginner series in Kundalini Yoga that give a nice foundation in a progressive weekly format. See our workshop catalog or visit our
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How can I gain an in-depth knowledge of all aspects of Kundalini Yoga?
The best way to gain an in-depth understanding of Kundalini Yoga is to participate in courses offered through Yoga Yoga Teacher Training. These courses are for serious students of Kundalini Yoga who want to take their practice and learning to a deeper level. Teacher Training courses provide transformational and educational experiences whether you want to be a yoga teacher or not. These courses cover all the basics of Kundalini Yoga as well as exploring topics such as lifestyle, philosophy, spiritual development, and humanology. Ask your teacher or any Yoga Yoga staff member for more information or visit our Yoga Yoga Teacher Training page to learn about upcoming courses.
We also offer special Kundalini Workshops that cover a variety of special topics. Students with unlimited class passes may attend workshops for free. Pre-registration is recommended.
What are the best Kundalini Yoga products to use for a home practice?
Is Kundalini Yoga available in other states and countries?
Yes, Kundalini Yoga is practiced all over the world. There are Kundalini Yoga classes and teacher training programs offered throughout the United States, Canada, Europe, South America, Africa, and Asia. (Visit www.3HO.org for worldwide events and teacher directories.)
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