Kundalini in Sanskrit roughly translates as “circular” or “coiled.” According to practitioners, Kundalini energy is like a coiled snake. It sits at the base of your spine, sleeping and unaroused. Kundalini yoga focuses on awakening this energy, or shakti. This allows it to move up and through the chakras along your spine.
As this energy is awakened, it’s said that your awareness is enhanced. Regular practice leads to an ‘expanded state of consciousness’.
How does it differ to other styles of yoga?
Where other types of yoga, like Hatha and Vinyasa, might focus on flowing with the breath, Kundalini-inspired yoga is more precise. The practice combines chanting, meditation, dynamic movements, and pranayama. Classes will often focus on balancing and strengthening the seven main chakras located along the spine, through which the Kundalini energy rises.
Benefits of Kundalini-inspired yoga
Along with balancing the chakras, Kundalini-inspired practices often focus on a specific outcome. These include reducing stress, boosting immunity, flushing your system, or releasing fear.
Regular practice can create positive change, removing energetic blockages, and allow you to reach your fullest potential.
Read more about this approach in Marlene’s article The energy body in yoga. Connect with and balance your chakras with Marlene’s playlist of classes.
