Kundalini Yoga

Overview

Kundalini Yoga focuses on awakening the spiritual energy (Kundalini) represented as a coiled serpent at the base of the spine. This ancient tradition was introduced to the West by Yogi Bhajan in 1969. Often described as the "yoga of awareness," it aims at consciousness expansion through activation of the seven chakras.

Core Principles

• Kundalini energy: dormant creative energy at the spine's base, rising through chakras
• Kriyas: codified sequences with specific objectives
• Breath of Fire: rapid rhythmic nasal breathing, signature technique
• Mantras: sound vibrations for consciousness elevation. "Sat Nam" is fundamental
• Chakras: 7 energy centers along the spine

Main Indications

• Stress and anxiety management
• Depression and lack of vitality
• Addictions (SuperHealth program)
• Insomnia
• Immune system strengthening
• Intuition and creativity development
• Emotional management

Session Structure

1. Adi Mantra (3 min): "Ong Namo Guru Dev Namo" chanting
2. Warm-up (5-10 min)
3. Kriya (30-45 min): codified sequence with postures, breathing, mantras, mudras
4. Deep relaxation (7-11 min): often with gong
5. Meditation (11-31 min): specific meditation with mantra and mudra
6. Final Sat Nam (3 min)

Variations

Morning Sadhana is a 2.5-hour pre-dawn practice. White Tantric Yoga is an intensive group meditation day. Specialized programs exist for youth, addictions, and 40-day commitments.

Contraindications

• Uncontrolled epilepsy
• Pregnancy (Breath of Fire contraindicated)
• Uncontrolled hypertension
• Severe unstabilized psychiatric disorders
• Serious cardiac diseases