FAQs
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What should I expect during a Kundalini Yoga class?
We use the following mantra (Adi Mantra) to begin class by "tuning in" to the golden chain of teachers:
Ong Namo Guru Dev Namo
Creative Force I Call Upon Infinite Teacher Divine Energy I Call Upon
"I call upon the Divine Creative wisdom of the Infinite."
The main "kriya" (set of Kundalini Yoga exercises) begins. Each exercise usually lasts from 3 to 7 minutes. The kriya will rejuvenate a component of your mind / body / spiritual system. It could be a particular muscle group, your glandular system, nervous system, organs or your mind. At the end of the kriya you will be consolidated into a new and healthier physical and mental state.
Deep relaxation follows the kriya. In Kundalini Yoga it is as important to relax as it is to move the body. This is when your body is able to integrate the positions you have just practiced and heal itself.
Meditation follows the relaxation. Your body will be transformed as a result of the kriya. Your mind and emotions will now become calm and clear, allowing clear direction of your attention. You will sense and develop your "quiet mind" and your ability to concentrate.
Closing the class. After loosening the muscles and raising your energy, we will project that feeling of vitality to others by closing with the following blessing:
"May the long time sun shine upon you All love surround you And the pure light within you Guide your way on."
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How does Kundalini Yoga work? Will it be right for my body type?
According to the tenets of Kundalini Yoga, as prana (the subtle life force carried to us by air) enters the body, it awakens human healing energy, or kundalini energy. The purpose of Kundalini Yoga exercises is to circulate this human prana, or kundalini energy, and to eventually return it to the cosmos. When we consciously raise the kundalini, it activates chemicals in the brain and a healthful change in consciousness is experienced. It may be subtle or it may be spectacular.
It doesn’t matter what your level of physical ability is - if you can breathe and move your body, you will experience Kundalini Yoga. The real proof that a person has raised their kundalini manifests in a happier attitude towards life, relationships, and the self.
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What should I bring to my first Kundalini Yoga class?
Wear loose clothing or exercise clothes. It is best if you do not wear socks and you should also bring a bottle of water to drink.
KYL already has some of these items for student use but if you are going to a new studio and you don't know what they have available to use or rent, you should consider bringing an exercise pad or yoga mat, a pillow/cushion to sit on (or to prop your knees with) and a blanket to cover yourself with during deep relaxation. This ensures that you will have all of the necessary tools to help you enjoy your experience. Remember - you do not have to do anything perfectly in Kundalini Yoga. Just lean in the right direction and you'll still receive all of the benefits. If a posture is too difficult, just close your eyes and image that you are doing it perfectly as the mind really does not know the difference.