Yoga is a tradition and a science with roots in ancient India that has evolved over centuries to embrace the wisdom of many places and times. Although it means something different to each person, it is rooted in oneness or returning to the Source. Throughout history, it has been split into various “schools” focusing on different aspects of yoga. Each branch is of the same tree, the tree of the Self. Yoga means union.
What is difference between Kundalini and Hatha yoga?
Hatha yoga is the physical branch of the yoga tradition and focuses on the structure of the body to help relieve stress and to provide strength in one’s mind and body. In learning the asanas (yogic postures) of Hatha yoga, a sense of health and vitality is created to help prepare for meditation. Hatha yoga can decrease stress, regulate metabolism, and heal many physical ailments. Practitioners leave class with a deeper connection to their bodies, muscular flexibility, strength, relaxation, concentration, and overall well-being and health.
Kundalini Yoga uses breath, yogic postures and meditation to help maintain a healthy spine helping to strengthen the nervous and glandular systems. Each class can help one become aware of much more than just the strength of the body. It helps to facilitate a change physically as well as emotionally and spiritually. Kundalini Yoga is yoga for the mind, body, and spirit.
How often should I take yoga class?
Yoga is not a religion at all. It is a science of the breath and movement. Yoga is what Yogi Bhajan called the Mother of all religions. It brings you inside yourself for the answers instead of seeking outside yourself for the answers.
It is ideal to practice on an empty stomach, or at least 2 1/2 hours after eating.
Comfortable clothes you can move easily in are best for yoga. Tank tops or T-shirts and loose, stretchy pants work best. Yoga is practiced barefoot. You can change into your clothes upon arrival.
A yoga mat. If you do not have a mat the studio does have rental mats.
We recommend trying as many different teachers as possible for beginners. One of the best gifts about Golden Bridge is you can mix and match your classes to suit your needs. If you have specific questions (a bad back, a strong desire for a meditation centered class, etc.) talk to someone at the desk, and he/she will be able to help advise you to the best class for you.
Online reservations are available, but not required. Just come a few minutes early to check in at the desk and acquaint yourself with our center.
Kundalini Yoga balances the nervous and glandular systems. You’ll chant, do physical postures and meditate to heal physically, mentally, and spiritually. You’ll experience your highest consciousness so you can find sacred purpose in your life.
Some people choose to cover their heads with natural cloth to protect the solar centers that become very sensitive as we begin to deeply meditate.
Chanting is not religion specific. Most yogic chants are in either Sanskrit or Gurmukhi, both ancient languages of the yogis. The shape the mouth makes and the placement of the tongue as the words are spoken actually stimulate pressure points in the mouth, bringing about a meditative state of mind by shifting energy in your brain.
Yes. Kundalini classes are open to anyone. Please just be aware of your child’s presence. On Wednesdays, during the morning Women’s class, babies not yet crawling are most welcome. We do advise Mamas bring their crawlers and walkers to the Mommy and Me classes in Santa Monica so both can enjoy a full yoga class designed just for them.