FAQ

Whether you are new to Kundalini Yoga, looking for a teacher, developing your own practice or considering teacher training, here are answers to some of the questions we are commonly asked.

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Do I need a teacher, or can I practise on my own?

Both can be valuable.

Practising with an experienced teacher gives you the opportunity to learn techniques, ask questions, explore modifications and experience practising with others.

A personal practice can also become an important part of your relationship with yoga. It doesn’t need to be long or complicated. A few minutes of regular practice may be more sustainable than setting yourself an ambitious routine that becomes difficult to maintain.

If you are new to Kundalini Yoga, learning the foundations with an appropriately trained teacher can be a helpful place to begin.

How long should I practise each day?

There is no single amount of time that is right for everyone.

Some Kundalini Yoga practices and meditations take only a few minutes, while others are considerably longer. Your practice can reflect your available time, experience, health and capacity on any particular day.

Consistency can be more useful than pushing yourself to complete a particular amount of time.

Listen to your body and allow your practice to develop progressively.

What is the best position for meditation?

There is no requirement to sit cross-legged or on the floor to meditate.

You can sit on a cushion, meditation bench or chair, or use other supports that allow you to be reasonably comfortable and alert.

If sitting on the floor causes pain, numbness or significant discomfort, change position or use a chair.

Meditation is not a test of how much physical discomfort you can tolerate.

Do I need to be flexible or experienced in yoga?

No.

You do not need to be flexible, physically fit or experienced in yoga to begin Kundalini Yoga.

Practices can often be adapted for different bodies and capacities. Let your teacher know about injuries, mobility limitations or other considerations that may affect your practice.

You always have the right to modify or decline a practice.

How does Kundalini Yoga differ from other forms of yoga?

Kundalini Yoga combines physical movement with pranayama or breath practices, meditation, mantra, mudra, relaxation and awareness practices.

Rather than focusing predominantly on physical postures, classes commonly bring several of these elements together within structured sequences known as kriyas.

Different styles of yoga emphasise different aspects of practice, and there is considerable diversity within yoga itself. The best approach is the one that is appropriate for you and supports your wellbeing.

Is Kundalini Yoga a religion?

No. Kundalini Yoga is a yogic and meditative practice, not a religion.

Some of its practices draw upon spiritual traditions and may include mantra, meditation and philosophical concepts. You do not need to adopt a particular religious or spiritual belief in order to participate.

People from many religious traditions, as well as people with no religious affiliation, practise Kundalini Yoga.

A teacher should respect your beliefs and should never pressure you to adopt their personal spiritual or religious views.

What does the word “kundalini” mean?

Kundalini is traditionally associated with our inherent potential and capacity for awareness and transformation.

Kundalini Yoga uses structured practices involving movement, breath, meditation and awareness.

It is distinct from contemporary practices marketed as “kundalini activation”, “energy activation” or similar modalities, which may use different methods and have different training structures.

Can I practise Kundalini Yoga during pregnancy?

Many people continue practising yoga during pregnancy, but practices may need to be modified as pregnancy progresses.

Pregnancy is highly individual. We recommend discussing exercise and yoga with your appropriately qualified healthcare professional, particularly if you have complications, health concerns or have been advised to modify physical activity.

If attending a class, tell your teacher that you are pregnant. Ideally, seek a teacher with appropriate prenatal yoga training or experience.

You should never feel pressured to perform a posture, breathing practice or exercise that does not feel appropriate for you.

Can I practise during menstruation?

Yes, if you feel comfortable doing so.

There is no requirement to stop practising Kundalini Yoga during menstruation.

You may choose to modify the intensity or type of practice according to how you feel. Traditional Kundalini Yoga teachings include particular recommendations regarding menstruation, but these should not override your own body awareness, health needs or personal choice.

Can I practise if I have a medical condition, injury or mental health condition?

Often, yes, but your practice may need to be adapted.

Tell your teacher about relevant injuries, health conditions or other needs before class. If you are unsure whether a particular practice is appropriate, seek advice from an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.

Yoga teachers should work within the scope of their training and should not diagnose or treat medical or mental health conditions unless they hold separate professional qualifications that allow them to do so.

Is Kundalini Yoga trauma-aware?

Kundalini Yoga itself is not automatically trauma-aware simply because it is yoga.

Many teachers now undertake additional education in trauma-aware or trauma-informed approaches, mental health, nervous system regulation, yoga therapy and related areas.

If this is important to you, ask a prospective teacher about their specific training and experience.

KYTANZ supports the continuing development of trauma-aware, inclusive and professionally responsible approaches to teaching.

How do I know if a Kundalini Yoga teacher is appropriately trained?

Ask them.

A professional teacher should be comfortable explaining their teacher training, certification, experience, professional memberships and any additional qualifications they hold.

Many KYTANZ teachers have completed KRI-certified Kundalini Yoga Teacher Training, and some hold additional qualifications in yoga therapy, counselling, somatic practice, mental health, meditation or other health and wellbeing disciplines.

You can learn more on our Teacher Training & Certification page.

How do I find a Kundalini Yoga teacher?

Our Find a Teacher Directory connects you with KYTANZ Professional Members throughout Australia and New Zealand.

Profiles allow you to explore teachers by location, experience, areas of practice and professional background so you can find someone who suits your needs.

How do I become a Kundalini Yoga teacher?

KRI-certified Kundalini Yoga Teacher Training is offered by recognised training teams in Australia, New Zealand and internationally.

Level One provides the foundation for becoming a Kundalini Yoga teacher, with further training available for teachers wishing to continue their professional and personal development.

KYTANZ provides information about current training opportunities and supports teachers as they move from training into professional practice and community.

Does KYTANZ offer teacher training scholarships?

Yes.

KYTANZ provides financial assistance towards eligible KRI-certified Level One and Level Two Kundalini Yoga Teacher Training in Australia through our Teacher Training Scholarship Program.

Scholarships are available to eligible KYTANZ Professional Members and are designed to help make teacher training more accessible while supporting connection with the wider professional community.

Scholarship applications are made directly to KYTANZ, with funding provided in stages as recipients progress through their training.

What are the benefits of joining KYTANZ?

KYTANZ offers two ways to be part of our community.

Community Membership

Our free Community Membership provides a welcoming way for practitioners, students, teachers on a break, former members and anyone interested in Kundalini Yoga to stay connected.

Community Members can receive news, resources and invitations to community activities.

Professional Membership

Professional Membership is designed for active teachers and practitioners seeking professional support, visibility and resources.

Benefits include the Find a Teacher Directory, professional resources, opportunities for promotion and connection, professional development, eligibility for KYTANZ scholarships and community event sponsorship, and other member benefits as they become available.

Does KYTANZ only support KRI-certified teachers?

KYTANZ has a longstanding relationship with KRI-certified Kundalini Yoga teacher training and continues to support and provide information about KRI training pathways.

At the same time, KYTANZ is a broader community of practice.

Our free Community Membership provides a place for students, practitioners, former teachers, people taking a break from teaching and others who wish to remain connected with Kundalini Yoga in Australia and New Zealand.

Professional Membership has specific eligibility requirements appropriate to the professional benefits and responsibilities attached to that membership.

Can I use music when teaching Kundalini Yoga?

Music used in classes may be subject to copyright and licensing requirements.

These requirements can vary according to where and how you teach, including whether classes are held in person, online, at a studio or at an event.

KYTANZ Professional Members can access current information and professional resources relating to music licensing and other practical aspects of teaching through our member resources.

Because licensing requirements and fees change, we recommend checking current requirements rather than relying on older published rates.

Where can I find Kundalini Yoga books, music and resources?

Kundalini Yoga resources are now available through a wide range of publishers, teachers, streaming platforms and online sources.

Rather than recommending one particular retailer or resource as authoritative, we encourage practitioners to explore widely, consider the source and context of materials, and speak with experienced teachers if they would like guidance.

Our KYTANZ community and Professional Member resources will also continue to grow as part of our commitment to shared learning and professional support.

Still have a question?

KYTANZ is here to help connect people with Kundalini Yoga, teachers, training and community throughout Australia and New Zealand.