What Is Kundalini Yoga?

• Kundalini yoga compares the energy at the base of the spine to a coiled snake. In fact, "Kundalini" means coiled up in Sanskrit. Practicing Kundalini yoga "uncoils" this energy, which moves to the seven chakras (or energy centers) throughout the body.
  
  

Basic Practice

• In Kundalini yoga, students move through poses while meditating and concentrating on their breathing. Chanting is a very important part of the practice.
  
  

Benefits

• Kundalini yoga strengthens the body while increasing consciousness. The ultimate goal is to achieve enlightenment.
  
  

What Is Kripalu Yoga?

• Kripalu yoga is a flowing style of yoga. The name is Indian for "compassion."
  
  

Basic Practice

• Kripalu yoga has three stages. In the first stage, students practice the poses concentrating mainly on the body itself. In the second stage, students hold the poses a little longer while coordinating their breath with the movements. Finally, in the third stage, students flow from one pose to another while meditating.
  
  

Benefits

• By learning to let go of stress and trust their bodies, Kripalu yoga students focus on self-discovery.