WHAT IS KUNDALINI YOGA: ORIGIN AND HISTORY

Kundalini Yoga is said to be a part of Hatha Yoga which was introduced by Lord Shiva and further introduced by Guru Gorakhnath Ji and later Swami Swataram Ji. Till now, Kundalini Yoga was known by the name of Hatha Yoga. Further, in 1968, Yogi Bhajan introduced his own brand of kundalini yoga into the United States, "Kundalini Yoga as taught by Yogi Bhajan". But the techniques used were the same as of Hatha Yoga.

Before Yogi Bhajan introduced his own way of Kundalini Yoga, Hatha Yoga and Kundalini Yoga were considered to be same. People use to know Kundalini Yoga by the names of Hatha Yoga. All the techniques of Hatha Yoga focus on activating the Kundalini. And for Kundalini energy to flow freely, your body must be in harmony. The way to achieve this harmony begins with practicing Hatha yoga. Hatha yoga postures and breathing exercises promote balance in your body.

As written in our Vedas, this entire universe consists of one universal energy which makes this universe work. This entire universe consists of 84,00,000 species. These 84,00,000 species works with this universal energy . The energy that works in human beings is known as Kundalini Energy, Soul Energy, Spirit Energy or also known as Shakti as written in our Vedas. So, this Kundalini energy is a part of this universal energy.
For eg. Electrical energy is one. The different electrical appliances uses this one electrical energy in different manner according to their work.
This Kundalini energy in human beings internally works in different ways. As we know and also written in our Vedas, this entire human body whether gross or subtle is made of five elements known as Sky, Air, Fire, Water and Earth. The energies corresponding to these five elements are present at different centres in our body known as Chakras as said in Vedas, also known as Energy Centres. These energies are responsible for the working of this physical body.

KUNDALINI AND ITS CONNECTION WITH CHAKRAS

In this body, we have different energy centres, out of which seven are main, known as chakras, also known as Energy centres. In these seven Chakras, first five chakras correspond to these five elements . These seven chakras are present in the Sushumna nadi also known as Energy Channel along the spinal cord. Our First Chakra is Mooladhara Chakra, which corresponds to Earth Energy, Here, Kundalini Energy is connected with Earth Energy and is present at the base of spinal cord.Our Second Chakra is Swadhisthana Chakra, which corresponds to Water Energy, Here Kundalini Energy is connected with Water Energy and is present below navel and above pubic bone.Third Chakra is Manipura Chakra, where Kundalini energy is connected with fire energy and is present in navel region. Fourth Chakra is Anahata Chakra, here with Air energy it is present in heart region. Fifth Chakra is Vishudha Chakra, where it is connected with air energy in throat region. In Sixth Chakra Ajna Chakra, it is connected with sixth sense. And in Seventh Chakra Shasrara Chakra, it is connected with Universal energy or Shiva.
This Kundalini energy remains blocked in these chakras, around 70-80% remains blocked. With other 20-30%, human body works. With the help of Kundalini Yog Sadhana, we unblock this energy so that it can rise up. Energy is already present inside but it is sleeping , with the help of sadhana we awaken this energy. Now, What is Kundalini Yoga? Yog means union. Here, word union implies when this Kundalini Energy unites with Universal Energy. That is when it reaches Sahasrara Chakra, in other words when Shakti connects with Siva, it is union. This is Kundalini Yoga.Once, Kundalini energy which is present in human beings comes in connection with Universal energy, all of a sudden it attains a great power. The power attained is such that nothing remains impossible for the person in this universe. Then he attains the stage where he says,

चिदानन्दरूपः शिवोऽहम् शिवोऽहम्।
cidānandarūpaḥ śivo'ham śivo'ham.

From his life, permanently all sorrows, grieves, complaints, sadness, negativity, fear etc.. diminishes and he attains peace, bliss in his life forever.

Now, to reach this stage, we here at Om Yoga, teach theoretically and practically many diffrenent techniques of this sadhana like Asanas, Pranayama(Breathing Teechniques), Bandhas, Mudras, Shatkriyas, Chakras Beej Mantra Sadhana, Chakras Symbol Sadhana, Chakras Healing etc.. in 11 days, 50 hours. How to Practice, what is required for this practice, what cautions to be taken while doing this sadhana, limitations of this practice. This teaching of 11 days 50 hours has to be carried in your daily routine as it requires a daily practice.Its practice continues till the time you reach your destination.

Why Kundalini Yoga at Om Yoga International?

Kundalini Yoga as taught by Yogi Bhajan is the Yoga of Awareness. Kundalini Yoga gives you tools to expedite your spiritual growth and healing. Kundalini Yoga also provides physiological as well as psychological well-known benefits such as increased flexibility, expanded lung capacity, a strong core, and stress alleviation and much more. In our body, we have different types of energy present related to five elements and then sixth sense and atlast, universal energy. By doing Kundalini Yog sadhana, these energies(earth energy, water energy, fire energy, air energy and sky energy) increase which were blocked in their respective centres one by one and then, sixth sense unblocks and atlast, our energy unites with universal energy. When all these energies gets unblocked, we start receiving benefits of each and every energy correspondingly which is infinite in number.

Below are mentioned some more benefits of Kundalini Yoga:
1.Inner Guidance: Kundalini Yoga develops the power of the intuitive mind. When you clean out the subconscious mind and learn to listen through deep meditation, you can sense the guidance of intuition that is always present.
2.Protection from negativity: Kundalini Yoga practice fortifies and expands your electromagnetic field, or aura. It is the energy field that surrounds you, and that alerts you to positive and negative influences in your environment. A weak aura can let in negative influences, and even attract them. A big, strong, bright aura can protect you from negativity and keep you centered in the light of your true identity.
3.Emotional Balance and neutral mind: Kundalini Yoga strengthens the nervous system, balances the glands, purifies the blood, and cleans out subconscious thought patterns. This gives you greater awareness and ability to choose how you respond to your thoughts and feelings.
4. Deep Relaxation That Heals: Kundalini Yoga practice helps you to becomes physically and mentally relaxed and also teaches you to self-heal yourself with this.
5. Befriend your soul and manifest your destiny: Kundalini Yoga gives you an experience of who you are when the grip of ego is released. It allows the depth of the soul to be felt and known. Begin to access your truth and create a strong connection to your soul and your soul’s work in this lifetime.

Following this ancient Indian yogic tradition, Om Yoga International offers 50 hour Kundalini Yoga course registered by World Yoga Alliance where the students can reap the above mentioned benefits. All the activites carried at our ashram are purely sattvic that gives an atmosphere to the students to gain the essence of spirituality. Furthermore,we create a stress free environment for our students that helps them to gain best results in a minimal time.
We have well specialised experts for Kundalini Yoga, Mr. Radhika Sharan and Mrs. Ruchika Sharan who ensure proper guidance to all our students in a well systematical manner. All our theoretical concepts are supported with practical asanas.The best benefit that one will get by doing this course from Om Yoga is personal attention from the teachers. This course we never organize in big groups. We arrange for smaller groups so that individual attention is given to each and every student.

NOTE: We also provide with EMI Facility for credit card (ICICI, HDFC, HSBC, Axis, Standard Chatrered, Yes, Kotak, Ratnakar Bank ) for indians who want to undergo the course at our centre.

I completed my Kundalini Yoga TTC at Om Yoga International, Rishikesh on 11th December 2019. I booked this place from Yoga Retreats. I loved this place. I have done Yoga before but wanted to learn extra bit of that which is Kundalini. So, i came here to learn especially that. I had a very much good support. Infact they gave me one to one i had teacher to myself. So, i felt very much supported in that way. I had everything i could ask for. Generally speaking, the all place atmosphere is very holy. It was a very nice experience. 11 days seemed to be a very short time. I would probably come again. The food they serve is yogic, beautiful thoroughly, beautiful. I did enjoyed the food as well. Thank you very much!!!!

Geoffrey Sengeme Thebe, UK

I completed my 200hour YTTC at Om Yoga International, Rishikesh in the month of November 2019. I am so thankful as i had a really good time here. Teachers are so amazing and so friendly. They really want to help us in learning more and more. I feel really thankful for this experience. This place is amazing with a view of nature. I learnt a lot here. Thank You !!!!

Maysa Regina Gomes, Brazil

Ashram is located at such a peaceful place that I was so overwhelmed by my stay at such a pleasant place. Rooms are so clean and spacious and well-ventilated. Food provided is fresh and hygienic and purely sattvic food. All people staying here are so kind and cooperative. Regarding my Yoga experience, before I didn’t know correctly what is Yoga? For me it was not more than exercise. But now, after completing the course, I can say clearly ,”Yoga is life” because yoga focuses on our body and mind and more than that, inner self. At last, I can only say that my life changed, and sparked by understanding Yoga, and meeting so nice Yoga teachers of OmYoga

Saki Takagi, Japan

I completed my 200hour TTC at Om Yoga International, Rishikesh in the month of October 2019. I had a very very nice time at this place. Teachers are so helpful, always welcome to solve our questions. We also had an amazing food, so healthy, nutritious, yogic and yummy food. And also at the centre, there is a rooftop area where we can have a nice view of mountains and mighty river Ganges. I really recommed this place.

Izabela Netto Pereira, Brazil

I completed my Kundalini Yoga TTC from 1st July till 11th July 2018. I am happy to complete my course here as teachers here are very excellent and understanding. Ashram location is very beautiful on the bank of Ganga river. Also, they provide us with all the facilities. So, overall it is a great education and positive experience.

Sarthak Arora, India

I did my 8days Yoga Teacher Training in the month of Spetember 2019. It was a very good experience for me. It is very beautiful and calm place. I really love this place with beautiful view of Ganges. Its just that they are very nice people and also very professional. It was a lovely experience for me. Good place for spirituality. Quality of course is of good level . All teachers are very compassionate and really professional. I would like to thank all the teachers for teaching me so good things.

Chou Tharany, France

I have completed my 200hour Yoga TTC from 18th June till 17th July 2018. I really enjoyed my time at OM YOGA INTERNATIONAL. Was really impressed by theory and practical class. The theory class taught here has given me such a great insight and foundation for my career as a Yoga Teacher. I really feel honoured to have these teachers during my TTC on Yoga. Mantras were also taught in a beautiful way. Lastly, i am thankful to all the staff. I leave from here with a good basis to start my career as a Yoga Teacher.

Harsimran Waraich, India

I completed my 200hour YTTC in the month of September. I stayed here for 30 days. It is a good place, so familiar atmosphere. All teachers take care of the students. They solve all the questions. Indian knowledge is so nice, teachers let us know about this all knowledge, not only about asanas , a physical practice but about all parts of Yoga, the philosophy part and also about anatomy of body. I am so happy to take 200hour course here and i am ready to take 300hour course soon. I am really grateful for all attention and dedication of everybody; teachers, kitchen people and student friends.

Luiz Augusto Barreto Silveira, Brazil

We came to this centre to do yoga for beginners course from 6th July till 13th July 2018. This is really a good place as teachers here are very good and course is also good. The main thing here i like is hospitailty and the openness of teachers. I would like to thank each and every teacher for teaching us basic concepts in a very proper way. I would like to thanks each and every one who was serving us food at each time with a smiling face.

Madhan S, India

I have completed my 200hour TTC in the month of September. I am fully satisfied at the end of course. Teachers have a lot of knowledge and they teach us sometimes gently and sometimes strictly. It was good for me and even in free times, they teach us many things. I felt 200hour course is not enough to have complete knowledge of Yoga. So, i would like to come further for 300hour course someday. teachers, Staff and all students here are so friendly. I really enjoyed this moment here. Thank you very much!!!!!

Ayami Tate, Japan

I completed my Yoga for Beginner course from 6th July till 13th July 2018. I am very new to yoga. My first impression about the course is discipline, way of teaching and more importantly everyone took care personally to explain every taught. Thank you very much for all, it was really a great experience.

Sivakumar K, India

I attended 200hour Yoga TTC in Om Yoga International in the month of July - August 2019. For me it was a really nice experience i had. Really nice teachers that teach very specifically, good way of teaching and explaining.Every teacher has a different qualities. The teachers are all not the same which i liked alot because you can learn more from different teaching. And ashram has nice standard accomodation, rooms are really big. I really enjoyed my whole stay there. When first time i went their, i had no idea how the things are supposed to be as i had no reference there. But my experience with Om Yoga International was amazing. Regarding food, it was quite difficult for me in the begining. But i managed to overcome every meal but ended up in liking the food alot after few days and understanding the purity of food although it was different from where i am from. Kitchen staff was amazing, they will get you whatever you want. Teachers were available for you to support you in finding answers for the questions you needed. Overall, it is fantastic place. I would definitely recommend the place.

Nicole Yong, Denmark

I am fully satisifed to do my course here. I was bit scared before coming here but now as i have completed my course, i can say this is the best and safe place for females also. All people in ashram are very loving, caring and helpful. For 3 months, i didnot felt as if i am away from home. Now, regarding the course, I had a completely different experience. What i knew about yoga was totally difefrent from what i gained from here. I came to know yoga is so deep and had learnt so much knowledge which i had never ever thought of also.

Jitu Bala Brahma, India

I completed my 200hour YTTC in the month of April 2019 at Om Yoga School. I am very pleased with the course. I feel that i have got a basic understanding about Asanas, Philosophy, Teaching and what it means to be a Yogi. With the word basic, I donot mean simple, I mean a solid foundation from which i can learn more things. I thank from my heart to all who made this training possible. I would have liked more time for self-practice, may be teacher guided self practice.

Andreas Cederstrom Sandh, Sweden

I had a great experience here in the school. The teachers are very friendly and positive. If you come here, you must smile, you have no other option.The people are so very friendly that you feel like a whole family. The yoga classes, practically and theoretically is a very big knowledge. I think i will come back again because it is such a big stuff. But as for now, i got to know many things. It was a great trip here, was a bit difficult to find but if you find them, it is really good. You must stay in the Om Yoga school, because they are so amazing, I felt in love with them.

Alica Anna Wildenauer, Germany

Fantastic. I just completed my course and have already booked to come back in November for 15day 100hour. Good, Healthy Clean food, basic but adequate accomodation. The staff is like family. Very attentive to all your needs. Yoga Teachers were able to work with individuals at their level and to extend their practice without overworking us. If you have never done Yoga, you can do this course. Even if you cannot touch your toes..you will surprise yourself how much improovement will be seen in a week.

Dolly Darling, Australia

I very much enjoyed my teacher training with Om Yoga International. I was impressed with the quality of teaching, and felt that I was learning a lot during the course. My other teacher trainings has been more westernized, and it was really interesting and inspiring to get a traditional and philosophical perspective. There was a lot of focus on Pranayama and meditation in addition to the asanas, I really felt I was given the opportunity to explore yoga in a different manner. If you are looking for an authentic traditional yoga practice then this is perfect!

Lise Knudsen, Norway(Europe)

I am from Germany, I attended the Kundalini TTC. It was a wish from heart to learn that knowledge, and even it was a short course (50hours), but all the knowledge was taught to me what is important to know, in theory and practical lessons. The teachers are very nice and they teach from heart. Also they are nice in person and take care of you, that you feel comfortable with everything. The room is very nice and all the Ashram, with Ganga view and nice people and good indian food. I am very thankful for my experience and I will always come back for drop in class or any course.

Maura Herzog, Germany

I was very happy to learn Yoga Philosophy so deeply. I feel myself fortunate because the beginning of my yoga course was in Om Yoga!! I feel it was my best choice that i started my yoga course here. As i learnt everything in a traditional way. At some parts i feel more different asana practice can be set up in the course rather than repeating asanas everyday.

Yusuke Honda, Japan

I have completed my 500 hour Yoga TTC course in the month of Nov,2017. Before 5 years, i suffered from Diabetes and due to this, i underwent a lot of stress. i could feel everytime i use to hide my real self. I could never express myself the way i am. This very thing always made me feel not good. After completing the yoga course, i was able to recognise and accept real me and could question myself as a neutral person. This was so superb that i started dealing with my problems so nicely. This was the first thing that helped me here to overcome my stress. The best lesson i learned in my Yoga course is Aparigraha. Have as much required. Ask yourself how much you require rather than working unconsciously. I was able to manage my stress effectively.I was deeply benefitted by this program as i learned the right way of living a life.

Yuki Yamamoto, Japan

Before this course, my aim was only to achieve certificate. But later, this course became such a great experience for me. This course helped me to face myself deeply that how negative i am. But, yes this also helped me to become positive. Learning Yoga here helped me to learn to accept the things as they are. The best part of this course was i could meet Ruchika Sensei, whose lessons had a great impact on my mind. It was great and fantastic to take lectures of her. I would really love to take advance course in the future here.

Kimie Sato, Japan

Before coming here, I thought yoga is stretching body . I used to meditate but thought it was nothing to do with yoga. Now I know meditation is nothing but yoga. Everything I learned here, asana, meditation, pranayama, theory are very useful in a practical life. I feel this brings calmness into my life even if I don't mean to attain samadhi. We can learn something we are missing in today's Japanese society. I will keep learning more deeply and make my life even better.

Kenji Kobayashi, Japan

By studying Yoga here, i learnt to get answer to my questions by developing awareness about them. I could feel the connection in between my body and mind, and keep calm, this is what actually yoga is. I used to be negative about everything before, but now I stopped differentiating people from me because i feel everything is connected with love. Now i accept everything flexibly,be honest to myself and others. This is something i learned through yoga. Yoga is necessary habit for me. inevitable in my life. I will keep practicing. Be strict to myself but not force myself.

Mayu Kono, Japan

I had so many confusion for yoga. But after taking course here, i felt very happy. It was very relaxing and comfortable for me. I had a very nice experience here. All people and teachers are very cooperative. So, I am fully satisfied while leaving from here and would like to come in future for advanced course

Nilima Chowdhury, India

I am extremely satisfied after completing my course. I had enquired from so many yoga centres before coming here. At last i decided to choose this centre for me. I am happy from each and very aspect from yoga classes to accomodation to meals here.

Lalit Kumar Singh, India

I had done PG Diploma of 2 years from Patanjali University before coming here. And also i had learnt yoga from various other places but had no confidence in me. But after completing my course, i can say what i could not learn there in 2 years have learnt more than that in just 3 months and also confidence came in me.

Ram Kumar, India

I could learn, "What is Yoga?" through he lessons from the Indian Instructors who have accumulated experience with the true knowledge in India, the holy place of Yoga. All reached my heart very smoothly and clearly, because of its truthfulness and concrete examples in daily life. Instructors of Asanas, Pranyama and Meditation were also experts in their fields. I spent everyday with enjoyment and with the feelings of changes in my body and mind. I am glad that i came here.

WHAT IS KUNDALINI YOGA: ORIGIN AND HISTORY

KUNDALINI AND ITS CONNECTION WITH CHAKRAS

Why Kundalini Yoga at Om Yoga International?