There are many different types of yoga, like Hatha Yoga, Ashtanga-Vinyasa Yoga, Power Yoga, and so on. While most onlookers are of the opinion, that yoga is about physical fitness, it is not. Yoga is much about the mental and spiritual self, as it is about the exterior. One such yoga form, that you are going to learn about today, is Kundalini Yoga. It is a spiritual form of yoga, as against the earlier forms, that stress more on the external health.
Kundalini is basically the energy, which is trapped at the base of the spine. It is present in all the individuals. However, you may lead your life in a mundane manner, without ever knowing that such an energy exists. The yoga form comprises several kriyas, along with the asanas. Mantra, meditation and chanting are also a part of the program. The body becomes more attractive and energy-rich, as you continue to practice this yoga form. Additionally, you also become more self-aware and conscious. Once awakened, the Kundalini energy rises along the Sushumna nadi, and reaches the Sahasara chakra, from where it unites with the Purusha, or Prakriti. Once that happens, you will experience complete bliss. The Kundalini is represented by a snake, which is coiled at the base of the spine. If you practice Kundalini, it will help to know the meaning of a few terms related to the practices.
Kundalini Yoga Asanas
It is also called as Kriyas. Each kriya is a series of asanas, done with a specific breathing technique in mind. Moreover, you will also do certain bandhas, that help in locking the energy flow, and releasing it when needed. There are a few asanas which need to be done fast. On the other hand, there are a few, which need to be done slowly. When you practice this yoga form in group settings, you will be taught how to do some of the most common ones.
Mudras
You will also be using mudras, as a part of the Kundalini course. These are basically nothing but gestures, that you make with the hands. Each gesture gives a different message to various parts of the body, and the brain in general. You must be well-acquainted with the Anjali Mudra. It is one of the most common mudras, that you may have practiced since childhood. Many people also call it the Prayer mudra. This mudra mainly brings in balance on both sides of the body. Another mudra, which you will be using quite often is the Gyan mudra. You will or may have already used it many times, in the meditative posture. In this mudra, the thumb and the index finger are in contact with one another. The remaining fingers stay extended. It makes you more receptive to the universe.
Mantras
In Kundalini Yoga, mantras assume a lot of importance. You have to chant positive affirmations repeatedly as a part of the practice. Many yogis call these mantras, Gurmukhi. However, you can also recite the mantras in English. If you follow the Himalayan traditions, you will be using more of Hindu mantras, among which ‘Aum’ fares as the more prominent one. You can also recite the Gayatri mantra. You can also recite the Adi Mantra, ‘Ong Namo Guru Dev Namo’. Mantra chanting also has the power to eliminate fears.
Chakras
The chakras have a very important role to play in the realm of Kundalini Yoga. In fact, each chakra is associated with an organ or a few of them. You can also learn about various asanas, which are associated with the chakras as well. The chakras are also called energy centers of the body. If the chakras are healthy, you will always feel happy and content. The first chakras, that you should know about in the context of Kundalini, is the Muladhara chakra. It is where the serpent lies coiled, waiting to spring into action. Next comes the sacral chakra or the Svadhishthana chakra. It is located just above the genitals. Then comes the Manipura chakra, Anahata chakra, Vishuddha chakra, Ajna chakra, and Sahasara chakra. This is where the unification with the purusha occurs.
Pranayamas
You can also learn about proper breathing techniques, and practice them without any hindrance. The most practiced are Ujjayi breath, also called Victorious breath. Additionally, you can also practice Bhramari, which is supposed to open up the senses. It is a type of Pranayama, in which you will be making the sound of bees. It calms the mind and also prepares the body for higher achievements. Breath-initiated movements can drive your life forward.
If you learn and practice Kundalini Yoga, you will be opening up huge benefits for yourself. Learn about all of them here.
Benefits of Kundalini Yoga
- You will slowly become a lot calmer, than you are at present. Kundalini Yoga males your more conscious of your actions. So, you can think and act. It is also said to reduce the anxiety. If you suffer from PTSD, then you will benefit immensely from the practice of this type of yoga.
- Your cognitive levels also improve a lot, as you practice this form of yoga. It can also help you to guard against age-related impairments.
- Your blood sugar levels will also be normalized, if you practice this yoga form regularly. You can actually direct the body’s energies in the right direction, which can further lead to proper utilization of the resources. Thus, leading to circulation.
- It is also one of the forms, which can remove blockages from the mind and body. You will also be able to unearth all your latent talents, as a result. Your creative juices will start flowing, as you start your practice.
All in all, Kundalini is a life changing practice, which can lead to huge transformations within your physical, as well as the mental body. So, you should join one of the best yoga centers in Rishikesh, for the right direction today. The best schools also offer you lifelong assistance, career wise, or just as a yogi.
