Kundalini yoga: the awakening of energy that everyone is talking about

What is kundalini yoga in simple words

Kundalini yoga is not just a set of exercises, but a holistic system of working with the energy that lies at the foundation of a person. The word "kundalini" itself translates from Sanskrit as "coiled serpent" — an image of the power dormant at the base of the spine. Awakening this power is the central goal of the practice, spoken of both in ancient texts and in modern classes. But what is kundalini yoga in simple words? It is a way to connect body, mind, and spirit through dynamic exercises, breath, sound, and meditation.

Unlike hatha yoga, where the emphasis is on static postures and alignment, kundalini yoga focuses on energetic tuning. The practice includes kriis — sequences of movements performed in a specific rhythm, often with breath retention. These kriis kundalini yoga are aimed at working through specific aspects: from strengthening the nervous system to unlocking creative potential.

Many come to kundalini yoga seeking quick changes, but it is important to understand: this is not a magic pill, but a tool for deep transformation. As with any energy practice, the result depends on regularity and intention. If you are a beginner, start with basic classes where the fundamentals are explained — this will help avoid mistakes and make the practice safe.

History and tradition: from antiquity to the present day

Kundalini yoga has its roots in the tantric traditions of India, where it was considered secret knowledge passed from teacher to student. It was first introduced to the general public by Yogi Bhajan in the late 1960s when he came to the West. He founded the organization 3HO (Healthy, Happy, Holy Organization) and began teaching kundalini yoga to anyone interested, adapting ancient techniques for the modern person.

Today, kundalini yoga is practiced all over the world and has many followers. However, with growing popularity, many distortions have also appeared. Some instructors simplify the practice to mere exercises, losing the energetic essence. Others, on the contrary, surround it with excessive mysticism, scaring off beginners. It is important to find balance and turn to trusted sources — for example, Yogi Bhajan's books or classes with certified instructors.

Interestingly, kundalini yoga is closely connected with the teaching of chakras — the energy centers of the body. Each chakra is responsible for certain aspects of life, and through practice, their functioning can be harmonized. For example, kundalini yoga 1 chakra (muladhara) helps strengthen the sense of security and stability, while working with the 5th chakra (vishuddha) develops communication and self-expression. Understanding this system makes the practice more conscious.

Kundalini yoga and chakras: how it works

The chakra system is a map of the energy body used in many esoteric traditions. In kundalini yoga, chakras are viewed as centers through which life force — prana — flows. When the chakras are balanced, energy circulates freely, and a person feels healthy and fulfilled. If a center is blocked, problems arise — both on the physical and emotional levels.

Kundalini yoga offers specific tools for working with each chakra. For example, to activate the root chakra, exercises that strengthen the legs and pelvis are used, as well as mantras connected to the earth. For the heart chakra — practices that open the chest and develop compassion. In classes, kundalini yoga chakra is often mentioned — this is not a separate direction, but rather an emphasis on working with the energy centers.

It is important to remember that chakras are not physical organs but energetic structures that cannot be seen but can be felt. Many practitioners notice warmth, tingling, or vibration in the chakra area during meditation. This is normal if you experience such sensations — they indicate that energy is beginning to move. However, do not fixate on them; it is better to focus on regular practice.

Kundalini yoga practice: where to begin

If you have decided to try kundalini yoga, start by finding an experienced teacher or quality online lessons. Kundalini yoga for beginners usually includes simple kriis and meditations that do not require special physical preparation. However, it is important to follow safety guidelines: do not overexert yourself, drink water, and listen to your body.

A typical kundalini yoga class lasts from 60 to 90 minutes and includes several stages: warm-up, kriis, relaxation, and meditation. During the practice, special breathing is used — for example, breath of fire, which helps warm up the body and cleanse the energy channels. Mantras are also chanted, creating vibrations that affect the state of consciousness.

One popular request is kundalini yoga with Maya Fines. Maya is a well-known teacher who created a series of lessons adapted for home practice. Her program includes kundalini yoga with maya fines, which suits even those who have never done yoga before. It is important to note that Maya also has a "proper voiceover" — she clearly articulates instructions, which helps avoid mistakes. Many note that kundalini yoga with my fines is an excellent start for beginners.

If you prefer a male teaching style, pay attention to kundalini yoga with Alexei Merkulov. Alexei is a certified instructor who emphasizes a deep understanding of the practice and its philosophy. His lessons help not only perform exercises but also become aware of what is happening with the energy. Kundalini yoga merkulov is the choice of those who want to go deeper.

Kriis and exercises: the key to transformation

Kriis are the heart of kundalini yoga. Each kriya is a sequence of movements, breath, and sounds that affect specific energy channels. There are thousands of kriis, and each solves its own task: from strengthening immunity to developing intuition. Kriis kundalini yoga can be very dynamic, such as intense arm swings, or static, when a posture needs to be held for several minutes.

One of the well-known kriis is the "Kriya for Awakening the Ten Bodies." According to the teaching, a person consists not only of the physical body but also of nine other energy bodies that influence their life. 10 bodies kundalini yoga — this is a concept that helps understand why we act the way we do. For example, the third body is the aura, which protects us from negativity. The practice includes exercises for strengthening the aura, which is especially useful in the modern world.

For beginners, it is important not to try to master everything at once. Choose one kriya and perform it regularly for 40 days — this is how a new habit is cemented and changes occur on the energy level. Kundalini yoga exercises may seem strange at first glance, but do not judge hastily: the effect comes with time.

Myths and reality: what kundalini yoga reviews say

There are many myths surrounding kundalini yoga that often scare people away. For example, some believe that awakening kundalini is dangerous and can lead to mental disorders. In reality, with the right approach and gradual practice, risks are minimal. It is important not to force events and not to try to "awaken" the energy artificially — it awakens naturally when the body and mind are ready.

Another myth is that kundalini yoga is connected to a religious cult and requires blind worship of the teacher. In reality, this is a practice that respects freedom of choice and does not impose dogmas. You can practice kundalini yoga while remaining an adherent of any religion or an atheist — it works with energy, not with faith.

Kundalini yoga reviews are mostly positive. People note improvement in emotional state, increased energy, relief from stress and insomnia. Many say the practice helps them better understand themselves and their desires. However, there are also those who did not feel an effect — this is often related to irregular practice or incorrect technique. That is why it is so important to learn from trusted teachers and not skip classes.

Kundalini yoga and 10 bodies: more than physics

The concept of the ten bodies is one of the deepest in kundalini yoga. According to it, we possess not only a physical body but also energetic ones that interact with the world. The first body is the soul, the second is the negative mind, the third is the positive mind, the fourth is the neutral mind, the fifth is the physical body, the sixth is the arha (radiant body), the seventh is the aura, the eighth is the pranic body, the ninth is the subtle body, the tenth is the radiant body. Each of them can be developed through specific exercises.

For example, to strengthen the aura (the seventh body), meditations with visualization of light around oneself are used. To balance the pranic body — breathing practices such as alternate nostril breathing. Understanding the ten bodies helps to see which aspects of your life need attention. If you often feel tired, perhaps it is worth working with the pranic body; if you are easily offended — with the aura.

Kundalini yoga training includes the study of this system, but at the initial stage, it is enough to simply practice. Over time, you will begin to notice how your perception of yourself and others changes. This is not magic but the result of working with energy.

Practical tips for beginners

If you are just beginning your journey in kundalini yoga, here are a few recommendations that will help make the practice effective and safe.

• Practice regularly, preferably at the same time. Morning hours are considered ideal for awakening energy.
• Do not skip the relaxation at the end of the class — it is as important as the active exercises. During relaxation, energy is integrated.
• Drink water before and after practice to help the body flush out toxins.

Choose a program that resonates with you. For example, kundalini yoga with Alexei Merkulov or with Maya Fines — both approaches have their followers. The main thing is that the teacher explains not only the technique but also the meaning of the exercises. Then the practice becomes conscious.

If you want to go deeper into theory, pay attention to kundalini yoga books. Classic texts such as "The Aquarian Teacher" by Yogi Bhajan will give you a solid foundation. It is also useful to study the philosophy of chakras and energy channels — this will help you better understand what happens during classes.

Kundalini yoga and hatha: what is the difference

Many confuse kundalini yoga with hatha yoga, but these are different directions. Hatha yoga focuses on physical postures (asanas) and breathing to prepare the body for long meditations. Kundalini yoga, on the other hand, uses postures as a tool for managing energy, adding dynamic movements, sounds, and mantras. Hatha kundalini yoga is a term sometimes used to denote practices combining elements of both directions.

If hatha yoga is more suitable for developing flexibility and strength, then kundalini yoga is aimed at awakening inner energy and expanding consciousness. In kundalini yoga classes, you will chant mantras, perform breathing techniques, and meditate — this is rarely found in classical hatha. The choice between them depends on your goals: if you want to improve physical fitness, choose hatha; if you seek spiritual growth — kundalini.

Some practitioners combine both directions, getting a comprehensive effect. For example, you can start with hatha to prepare the body and then move on to kundalini. The main thing is to listen to yourself and not be afraid to experiment.

Kundalini yoga for beginners: first steps

If you have decided to start practicing kundalini yoga, do not put it off. Find a suitable course or video lessons that are appropriate for beginners. Many online platforms offer kundalini yoga classes for beginners, where the basics are explained in detail. For example, kundalini yoga maya fines 1 chakra is a series of lessons dedicated to the root chakra, which is the foundation for the entire practice.

Before starting classes, create a comfortable space: air out the room, put on comfortable clothing, prepare a mat. Make sure no one distracts you. Set yourself up for practice, take a few deep breaths, and begin with simple exercises. Do not strive to immediately perform complex kriis — gradually increase the load.

Remember that kundalini yoga is not a competition. Your task is to feel the energy and establish a connection with yourself. Do not compare yourself to others, especially if you are practicing along with videos. Everyone has their own pace.

Kundalini yoga and 5 chakra: voice and self-expression

The fifth chakra, vishuddha, is located in the throat area and is responsible for communication, creativity, and the ability to express one's thoughts. When it is balanced, we communicate easily, speak the truth, and feel confident. If the chakra is blocked, problems with the throat, fear of public speaking, and difficulty expressing feelings may arise.

Kundalini yoga 5 chakra includes exercises that stimulate the throat area: chanting mantras, special kriis with shoulder lifts, breathing through the mouth. One effective practice is chanting the mantra "Hum" on the exhale, which creates vibration in the throat. Regular practice helps open the voice and feel freedom of self-expression.

If you feel that it is difficult for you to speak about your desires, try adding exercises for the 5th chakra to your practice. This could be kundalini yoga with Maya Fines, which has special lessons for the throat chakra. Over time, you will notice that you express your thoughts more easily and feel more confident in communication.

The path to yourself: energy that is always with you

Kundalini yoga is not just a set of techniques but an invitation to a dialogue with yourself. In a world where everything accelerates and attention scatters, the practice returns us to the silence within. It does not promise instant miracles but gives tools that work on a deep level — gradually, gently, but irreversibly. Awakening energy is not a goal but a journey in which every step matters: breath, movement, sound, pause.

If you feel that the time has come to understand yourself a little deeper, do not fear the unknown. Esotericism is not an escape from reality but a way to see it more clearly. Start small: choose a practice that resonates and allow yourself to be a beginner. Mistakes are part of the path, and regularity matters more than intensity. Remember that kundalini yoga is not a competition or an exam but a space for exploring your own nature.

At EXETERIC media, we believe that conscious work with energy is accessible to everyone who is ready to listen to themselves. On the pages of our esoteric guide, you will find not only techniques but also philosophical foundations that help you practice without fanaticism and fear. And if you want to broaden your horizons, check out the astrology section — perhaps your zodiac sign will hint at which practices suit you best. And, of course, do not forget that the EXETERIC blog contains articles about magic, self-discovery, and spiritual traditions — there is much there to inspire you on your path.

Try to practice calmly, with respect for yourself and your sensations. Do not chase results — allow energy to flow naturally. And may this path become a source of joy, clarity, and inner strength for you. You have already taken the first step simply by reading this article. Now — it is time to take the second, if you feel the call.

Frequently asked questions

Is kundalini yoga dangerous?

Kundalini yoga is safe if approached with sense and respect. Like any work with energy, it requires gradualness and attention to your sensations. There is no need to try to force the awakening — it happens naturally when the body and mind are ready. Start with simple kriis and meditations, preferably under the guidance of an experienced teacher or with trusted video lessons. If you feel discomfort, reduce the intensity or take a pause. The main thing is to listen to yourself and not compare your progress with others.

How long do I need to practice to feel an effect?

The effect of kundalini yoga is individual, but many notice changes after just a few weeks of regular practice. The key factor is consistency: it is better to practice 15-20 minutes every day than once a week for an hour. In the tradition, a 40-day cycle is often mentioned — this time is enough to cement a new habit and notice shifts in energy. Some feel a surge of energy and calm immediately, others need more time. Do not expect instant miracles — trust the process, and results will come.

Can I practice kundalini yoga on my own with videos?

Yes, self-practice with videos is possible, especially at the initial stage. It is important to choose quality lessons from certified teachers who explain the technique in detail and warn about possible mistakes. For example, the programs of Maya Fines or Alexei Merkulov are suitable for beginners. However, if you have chronic conditions or feel uncertain, it is better to attend a few in-person classes so the instructor can correct your practice. Remember: the video does not see your body, so listen to yourself especially carefully.

How is kundalini yoga different from regular yoga?

Kundalini yoga focuses on awakening energy, not just physical postures. It uses dynamic kriis, breathing techniques, mantras, and meditations that affect the energy centers. Hatha yoga, for example, pays more attention to body alignment and developing flexibility. Kundalini yoga often includes work with chakras and the ten bodies, making it a more holistic practice for mind and spirit. If you are seeking deep transformation, kundalini may become your path, but to begin with, it is worth mastering the basic principles.