Traditional Kundalini vs. 3HO
- Nikki Solyom
- Apr 7
- 6 min read
What are the differences between the western kundalini yoga (3HO) that is more pupular vs. the Traditional Kundalini yoga i am teaching on my classes, workshops and courses?
The differences between Traditional Kundalini Yoga practiced in places like North India and the Kundalini Yoga popularized by Yogi Bhajan in the West (often referred to as Kundalini Yoga as taught by Yogi Bhajan, or H3O-Kundalini) are nuanced and often revolve around the approach to the teachings, the structure of the practice, and the emphasis on certain elements. Let's dive into the key differences:
1. Origins and Lineage
Traditional Kundalini Yoga (India):
Traditional Kundalini Yoga is part of a broader spiritual and yogic tradition that has been passed down through generations in India. It is deeply rooted in the Tantric and Hatha Yoga traditions.
The practice is often seen as a spiritual discipline that involves awakening the dormant energy (Kundalini) at the base of the spine and gradually guiding it up through the chakras. This process is believed to lead to self-realization and enlightenment.
Teachers are often trained under the guidance of a lineage master, and the practice is highly individualized, focusing on the inner journey and the awakening of the self.
Kundalini Yoga as Taught by Yogi Bhajan (H3O-Kundalini):
Yogi Bhajan introduced his version of Kundalini Yoga to the West in the late 1960s, particularly in the United States, where it quickly gained popularity.
His teachings blend elements of Kundalini Yoga, Sikh teachings, and his own interpretations of yoga and meditation. Yogi Bhajan emphasized the practical and therapeutic aspects of Kundalini Yoga, particularly for modern, Western lifestyles.
Yogi Bhajan's approach is more structured and formalized in terms of the sequences (called Kriyas) and meditations, and it has a more community-oriented approach, focusing on collective healing and spiritual growth.
2. Structure of the Practice
Traditional Kundalini Yoga (India):
The practice is typically taught as a private or small-group transmission. There is an emphasis on self-discipline, deep concentration, and long periods of meditation and inner reflection.
While physical postures (asanas) are important, they are often practiced alongside breathwork (pranayama), mudras, and mantras in a more spontaneous or individualized manner.
Traditional Kundalini Yoga also often involves longer, slower meditations and more complex visualizations to aid the awakening of the Kundalini energy.
Kundalini Yoga as Taught by Yogi Bhajan:
Kriyas, or specific sets of exercises, are the hallmark of Yogi Bhajan's version of Kundalini Yoga. These sequences are designed to achieve a specific purpose, such as balancing the nervous system, strengthening the body, or opening the energy channels.
The practice typically begins with a warm-up, followed by a Kriya, which includes a series of physical exercises (asanas), breathwork, and possibly chanting or mantra repetition.
A unique feature of Yogi Bhajan's system is the use of pranayama techniques, particularly Breath of Fire, which is designed to purify and energize the body and mind.
The practice often includes a set meditation at the end of the session, followed by a closing mantra, such as "Sat Nam", and a collective chant to end the practice.
3. Spiritual and Philosophical Emphasis
Traditional Kundalini Yoga (India):
In traditional Indian teachings, the focus is primarily on spiritual awakening and self-realization. The emphasis is on the deep, internal process of awakening the dormant Kundalini energy and achieving a higher state of consciousness.
There is a strong focus on self-discipline, detachment, and the gradual cultivation of inner peace and enlightenment.
Teachers may incorporate other spiritual practices, such as chanting, mantras, and specific yogic practices that promote mindfulness and meditation.
Kundalini Yoga as Taught by Yogi Bhajan:
Yogi Bhajan emphasized that Kundalini Yoga could be used to improve mental health, physical health, and overall well-being in addition to spiritual development. His teachings are often more pragmatic and therapeutic.
He introduced the concept of using Kundalini Yoga as a tool for modern life, helping practitioners deal with stress, emotional challenges, and the fast-paced nature of Western society.
Yogi Bhajan’s approach also includes teachings from Sikhism, such as the practice of "Seva" (selfless service) and the emphasis on living a truthful and honest life.
4. Chanting and Mantras
Traditional Kundalini Yoga (India):
In traditional forms of Kundalini Yoga, chanting may be more specific to particular traditions or spiritual paths (e.g., Tantric mantras or meditations).
The chanting is generally viewed as a part of the practice that helps clear the mind and align the practitioner with universal consciousness.
There may be a broader selection of mantras used in various meditation practices.
Kundalini Yoga as Taught by Yogi Bhajan:
Yogi Bhajan’s version uses specific mantras (such as "Sat Nam," "Wahe Guru," and others) which are thought to carry vibrational healing properties and can help awaken the Kundalini energy.
Chanting is often used as a central component of both the Kriyas and meditations, and is thought to help clear blocks in the energy system, elevate the mind, and bring the practitioner into a state of connection with the divine.
5. Community and Structure
Traditional Kundalini Yoga (India):
Traditional Kundalini teachings may be taught in a more individualized or intimate setting, with teachers offering personal guidance to their students.
There is often an emphasis on maintaining a secrecy around specific practices and teachings, as they are traditionally passed down in a lineage or guru-disciple relationship.
Kundalini Yoga as Taught by Yogi Bhajan:
Yogi Bhajan’s system has a very strong community focus, with a focus on group classes, workshops, and global gatherings.
He founded 3HO (Healthy, Happy, Holy Organization), which has grown into an international network of Kundalini Yoga practitioners.
The teachings are standardized into well-defined formats that are designed for easy teaching in a group setting.
6. Modern vs. Traditional Approach
Traditional Kundalini Yoga (India):
Traditional practices may be more esoteric, with a strong connection to ancient spiritual rituals and a long, gradual process of initiation into advanced practices.
It may also involve more intense discipline and a more personalized approach to working with energy.
Kundalini Yoga as Taught by Yogi Bhajan:
Yogi Bhajan's approach was very adaptable to the modern lifestyle, with a focus on practicality. The practices are often more accessible, and Yogi Bhajan emphasized that anyone, regardless of their background or physical condition, could benefit from this practice.
The teachings were also more open and public, making them available to a wider audience.
Summary of Key Differences:
Aspect | Traditional Kundalini Yoga (India) | Kundalini Yoga by Yogi Bhajan (H3O) |
Origins and Lineage | Ancient, passed down through generations | Introduced to the West by Yogi Bhajan in the 1960s |
Structure | More individualized, spontaneous practices | Structured Kriyas and sequences for specific purposes |
Focus | Spiritual awakening, self-realization | Mental, emotional, and physical well-being |
Spiritual Influence | Traditional yogic and Tantric teachings | Blends Sikhism, yogic teachings, and modern practices |
Teaching Style | Private or small-group, individualized guidance | Group classes, global community-oriented approach |
Chanting and Mantras | Varies with tradition, specific to practices | Centralized use of specific mantras like "Sat Nam" |
Emphasis on Modern Life | Less focus on modern life, more spiritual depth | Strong focus on practical tools for modern living |
Both traditions offer deep spiritual and personal growth, but the key difference lies in approach and emphasis. Traditional Kundalini Yoga is more esoteric, private, and rooted in ancient lineage practices, while Yogi Bhajan's version is designed to be more accessible and pragmatic for the modern, Western world, often focusing on community and well-being.
Both styles have their strengths, so I’ll share what I might lean toward and why:
If I were drawn to spiritual depth and a more individualized experience, I might choose Traditional Kundalini Yoga:
The deep, esoteric nature of traditional practices might appeal to someone looking for a personal, introspective experience.
Gradual self-discovery through direct inner guidance would likely resonate with someone who wants to explore their own spiritual awakening at their own pace.
I might appreciate the guru-disciple relationship, where the guidance is more tailored to my unique path, and the teachings are passed down in a more intimate, sacred environment.
If I were really interested in connecting with ancient traditions and philosophies, I might find myself drawn to the Tantric and Hatha elements that go beyond just the physical practice and into a holistic approach to life and energy.
However, if I were looking for something practical, community-oriented, and designed to help me navigate modern life, I might lean toward Kundalini Yoga as taught by Yogi Bhajan (H3O):
The pragmatic approach of this style, which combines mental, emotional, and physical well-being, would likely be a great fit for someone who wants to feel balanced and energized in the daily grind of life.
The structured Kriyas and their focus on specific goals, like stress relief or emotional healing, would be appealing if I were trying to address specific challenges in my life (whether that’s dealing with stress, staying focused, or clearing blockages).
The community aspect and the global presence of 3HO would also be something I’d enjoy, as it provides an opportunity for connection with others on a similar path.
Plus, Yogi Bhajan's teachings around living a balanced, healthy lifestyle, combining yoga with nutrition and meditation, would likely be a solid way to maintain overall well-being in today's fast-paced world.
Conclusion:
If I were human and depending on the moment or phase of life I was in, I might choose Kundalini Yoga as taught by Yogi Bhajan for the practical, accessible benefits and community feel. But if I was seeking something deeper or felt called to explore more ancient, mystical practices, I would definitely be intrigued by Traditional Kundalini Yoga and its more esoteric, spiritual dimensions.
Comments