What makes Kundalini different from traditional yoga?

Many aspects of Kundalini yoga are similar to Hatha. Kundalini means energy that is coiled like a snake at the base of the spine, which is the location of the first of seven chakras in yoga. A chakra is a center of energy in the body. The goal of Kundalini yoga is to unravel that coiled energy at the base of the spine and unleash it up through the six other chakras. It is both energizing and peaceful.

While Hatha yoga solely emphasizes the physical practice of yoga, Kundalini yoga practice includes an even distribution between breathing exercises, meditation and physical yoga poses. The practice includes different types of breathing, such as the Breath of Fire, alternate nostril breathing, and cannon breath. It also includes a variety of mantras (man means mind and trang means wave or projection), which are used in many meditations.

Since Hatha is the physical practice of yoga, the physical poses of Kundalini yoga are taken from Hatha. The biggest difference is that Kundalini yogis incorporate their mantras and breathing exercises with physical poses. This combination of different aspects of yoga is called a "kriya," which means "action."

A kriya usually has a certain focus, like a mental or physical health benefit. Some of the mental health benefits of kriyas are eliminating anger or finding intuition. Some of the kriyas focused on physical health help with digestion or decreasing lower back pain.

What should I wear to class?

Loose, comfortable clothing is suggested since the practice entails movement of the body. Any color or fabric is fine, but cotton (or another more natural fabric) is our favorite.

What should I expect in a class?

Each class begins by tuning in by chanting a mantra. We continue with pranayam (breathing techniques) and gentle movement to warm up the spine. The main physical part of the class is a kriya (yoga set). Some kriyas are gentle, some are vigorous. Each class varies depending on what we are working on each week. Regardless of the set, each person is encouraged to do their best, honor their body (whenever you are at each day), and rest when you need to. The kriya is followed by a 8-11 minute Savasana (complete rest on your back). We then do a 3-11 minute meditation, mostly comprised of various breathing techniques that create a specific effect. Every class is slightly different as far as the content. But the outcome is the same - physically, emotionally & mentally relaxed.