Kundalini yoga combines breathwork, chanting, and repetitive movement sequences called kriyas. It was brought to the West by Yogi Bhajan in the 1960s. Physical postures are simpler than in Hatha or Vinyasa but breath and repetition are intense. Sequences often include rapid Breath of Fire, held postures with specific hand positions called mudras, and mantra chanting. Practice sessions typically end with a deep relaxation. Practitioners often sit on a wooden block or bolster to keep the spine long during breathwork. The METADESK workshop in Kostopil, Ukraine, hand-makes solid ash yoga blocks that suit long seated Kundalini sessions.
Key facts
- Focus: breath, mantra, repetitive movement
- Signature technique: Breath of Fire
- Class length: 60 to 90 minutes typical
- Prop most used: seated cushion or block for spinal length
Frequently asked questions
Is Kundalini yoga safe for beginners?
Yes, when taught with progressive breath work. Some practices like extended Breath of Fire are intense; a good teacher scales them for beginners.
What is Breath of Fire?
A rapid rhythmic diaphragmatic breath, roughly two to three breaths per second, used through many Kundalini kriyas.
Do I need to chant in Kundalini yoga?
Mantra chanting is traditional but not compulsory. Many practitioners mouth the mantras silently.
What props help Kundalini practice?
A seated cushion, block, or bolster for spinal length during long seated sequences. A solid wooden block works well because it does not compress under weight.
For a wooden block that holds shape through long seated Kundalini work, see the METADESK Wooden Yoga Brick. Custom orders via metadeskukraine@gmail.com; lead time 2 to 4 weeks.