Kundalini Yoga is a practice that has different elements. We use asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing techniques), mantras, relaxation and meditation.
Tune in with mantras
We begin our practice with the Adi Mantra “Ong Namo Guru Dev Namo.” This mantra links us to a golden chain of masters and saints through which the teachings are transmitted. It connects us to the infinite spark of consciousness inside ourselves. It sets up a sacred space for our practice and helps to guide our practice with awareness.
We also chant the mantra Aad Gureh Nameh, Jugaad Gureh Nameh, Sat Gureh Nameh, Siri Guru Day vay nameh. This mantra clears doubts and opens us to guidance. It cleans out negativity and brings light to our aura.
Warm Ups
After we have tuned in with the mantras, we usually prepare our bodies for the practice with a variety of warm ups.
Kriya
We then practice a kriya. Kriya means completed action. A Kriya will have postures, breath, mantras, a point of focus and relaxation that are brought together in a specific sequence, which will bring a specific result. A Kriya removes the blocks and brings about a state of spontaneous flow. There are thousands of kriyas to choose from which work on all aspects of the body, mind, emotions and soul.
Relaxation
At the end of the kriya, students are guided into a state of relaxation, which helps them integrate the benefits of the kriya.
Meditation
After relaxation, we practice meditation. Once again there are many different meditations to practice to bring our body, mind and soul into balance and harmony.
Prayers & Mantra at the end of class
Finally, we end the class with a prayer called the Long Time Sun
May the longtime sun shine upon you
All love surround you
And the pure light within you
Guide your way on
We then repeat Sat Nam (Truth is my identity) three times.
How to prepare for class
- It is important to come to the class with an empty stomach. Ideally do not eat for 2 hours before the class. It is fine to drink water.
- Wear comfortable clothes made of natural fibre.
- Bring a scarf to cover your head for meditation.
- Bring a yoga mat or a sheepskin rug to sit on.
- Bring a blanket for relaxation and water to drink.
- Let the teacher know if there is any medical reason that may prevent you from practising kundalini yoga fully. It is important never to aggravate an existing injury. If there is any concern whether yoga is suitable for you, contact your health care professional.
- It is up to you to listen to your body when practising yoga. You have to discern how much your body can do during the yoga. If for some reason, you need to come out of the pose, if you are able to, come back into the posture as soon as you can.
- Please do not practice kundalini yoga under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- You must let your teacher know if you are pregnant. There are certain postures and breath techniques that are contraindicated in pregnancy.
Ladies during their menstrual cycle need to avoid inverted postures, leg lifts and any strong breathing practice such as the breath of fire.