Kundalini Yoga for Beginners: A Guide to Getting Started
If you’re new to yoga, Kundalini Yoga is a great place to start. This ancient practice combines physical postures, breathwork, meditation, and chanting to bring about a state of balance and harmony. Here’s everything you need to know to get started with Kundalini Yoga.
What is Kundalini Yoga?
Kundalini Yoga is an ancient practice that combines physical postures, breathwork, meditation, and chanting to awaken the Kundalini energy that lies dormant at the base of the spine. It is a complete system that works the mind, body, and spirit and enhances rapid transformation in practitioners.
What to Expect in a Kundalini Yoga Class
In a typical Kundalini Yoga class, you can expect a combination of physical postures, breathwork, and meditation. You’ll begin class by tuning in with “Ong Namo Guru Dev Namo”, followed by the protection mantra “Aad Guray Nameh, Jugad Guray Nameh, Sat Guray Nameh, Siri Gurudevay Nameh”. Throughout the class, you’ll be guided through a yoga set and typically, your class will end with a meditation.
Physical Postures
Kundalini Yoga includes physical postures that are designed to stretch and strengthen the body, while also stimulating the flow of energy through the body. Some common postures in Kundalini Yoga include Cat/Cow, Cobra, and Triangle Pose.
Breathwork
Breathwork, or pranayama, is an essential pillar of Kundalini Yoga. In this practice, specific breathing techniques are used to regulate the flow of energy through the body and the mind. Some common breathing techniques in Kundalini Yoga include long, deep breathing and breath of fire – an equal inhale and exhale through the nose.
Meditation
Meditation is another key element of Kundalini Yoga. In this practice, practitioners focus their attention on a specific object, sound, or thought in order to quiet the mind and achieve a state of deep relaxation.
Chanting
Chanting, or mantra, is a powerful aspect of Kundalini Yoga. Ancient mantras are chanted to stimulate the mind to produce new, more positive ways of thinking about behaving. Mantras will be played in class, and are often used in different meditations as well. Chating stimulates a very unique and profound energy through the system.
Tips for Getting Started with Kundalini Yoga
If you’re interested in trying Kundalini Yoga for the first time, here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Any Kundalini Yoga class is friendly to beginners. You can look for a beginners’-specific class, but you’ll also find it simple to start with any class.
- While you can experience rapid and immediate transformation, trying at least 3 classes will give you some time to adjust to new ways of moving and breathing.
- Wear comfortable clothing: Choose loose-fitting clothing that allows you to move freely and comfortably.
- Bring a mat and props: Bring a yoga mat and any props you may need, such as blocks or blankets, to help you modify the postures as needed.
Getting Started with Kundalini Yoga
At RA MA, we offer a variety of Kundalini Yoga classes and workshops for practitioners of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced yogi, join us and experience the benefits of Kundalini Yoga.
Ready to get started?
Check out our classes at any of our 3 studios in Los Angeles, New York, and Mallorca, Spain, or join us virtually on RA MA TV.
