Kundalini Yoga, also known as yoga for the soul, is a very spiritual form of yoga, involving use of the mind. Whereas traditional forms of yoga use Asanas (postures) held in a static position for a specific length of time, Kundalini yoga uses Kriyas (actions) instead. The actions are usually very simple – but that does not mean it is easy.
These two hour taster sessions at our Sunderland Studio will introduce you to the technology of Kundalini yoga. You will be introduced to some basic yoga Kriyas, which are gentle movements performed for a few minutes in conjunction with the breath to increase the flow of prana or energy in the body. You will learn how to tune in, followed by some of the basic exercises (performed with the eyes closed) and then some mantra chanting will be performed and the session finishes with a lovely relaxation to calm body and mind.
The timings for each action are unknown to the participants and they may vary from one minute up to several minutes in a typical class. The point is that although the actions are simple, the body fatigues from repeating the actions over and over. Each kriya is performed with the eyes closed in order to shut out any external stimuli and take the focus internally, so the student becomes more aware of their internal environment. Therefore, thoughts, feelings, emotions and sensations are heightened when the eyes are closed.
Since the student is unaware of the timing for each action, when the body fatigues, the mind will produce a lot of negative self-talk (“I can’t do this anymore”, “I want to give up” etc.). The idea is that you learn to push past all of these mind viruses and learn to talk to yourself in a positive, uplifting way (“I can do this”, “I am strong”, “I will not give up” etc) – this makes you mentally stronger. This technique can also be used in everyday life, if you encounter difficult situations – because it takes the same mental strength to get you through it.
In addition to the kriyas, Kundalini yoga classes also involve specific meditations and chanting. Group chanting is known as Kirtan and it is an intensely uplifting experience, designed open your heart (like a child singing innocently and joyously). This technology precisely and consciously combines breath, mudra, eye-focus, mantra, body locks, and postures to balance the glandular system, strengthen the nervous system, expand lung capacity, and purifiy the blood. It brings balance to the body, mind, and soul.