Kundalini For Beginners | LIVESTRONG.COM

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Kundalini yoga is a spiritual practice where you are accessing the vital life force, which the yogis term kundalini. According to Guru Rattana, Ph.D. at Kundalini Yoga, kundalini is the energy of your soul and consciousness, and awareness of the higher self. Kundalini energy is often depicted as a dormant coiled serpent at the base of the spine. The practice works with awakening this energy for spiritual growth.

Kundalini yoga is an ancient practice from India dating thousands of years. Originally taught by secret oral tradition in an effort to maintain the integrity of the teachings, it was brought into the open in 1969, when Yogi Bhajan began teaching it in the United States and subsequently worldwide, according to India Net Zone. "Kundalini yoga harnesses the mental, physical and nervous energies of the body and puts them under the domain of the will, which is the instrument of the soul," according to India Net Zone.

It is important to note that kundalini is considered a powerful spiritual practice. It is recommended that you begin it under the guidance of an established and reputable teacher, according to Religion Facts, which cites symptoms of uncontrolled kundlaini awakening as "mental confusion; psychosis; gastrointestianal disorders; itching, burning, or involuntary twitching; sexual dysfunction; severe mood swings; egotism; ringing or hissing sounds in ears; paranormal activity and immoral behavior."

After you find a studio and teacher and studio in whom you have confidence, you can consider the following guidelines: wear loose and comfortable clothing and keep the shoulders and torso covered; bring a light blanket for the resting postures; eat lightly two to three hours before class -- ideal foods include fruits, vegetables and nuts; drink a substantial amount of water after class as you will be releasing toxins.

This is practice, not a competition. Ask the teacher for a basic warm-up routine to do at the beginning of each class. Listen to your body and do what you can until you build up your stamina. Gauge yourself between learning and striving to improve and overdoing the poses. According to Anmol Mehta, "Use common sense with regard to injuries. Use modifications that are provided for the difficult asanas and exercises and back off if you feel you are risking injury."

At its best, kundalini yoga can help provide mental balance and increased happiness. But for any health condition or symptoms, contact a health care professional before attempting kundalini yoga.

Article reviewed by Jay Lawrence Last updated on: Nov 27, 2010

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