Yoga

Is the physical, mental, and spiritual practice or discipline to transform body and mind (see 8 limbs of yoga).

There are many different schools and forms of Yoga from Iyenga to Kundalini and Raja Yoga. Most people focus only on the physical level of Yoga.

Kundalini yoga is a profound and ancient practice that encompasses both spiritual and physical elements. It derives its name from the Sanskrit word "kundalini," which refers to the primal energy believed to reside at the base of the spine. The practice aims to awaken and harness this dormant energy, allowing it to rise through the body and activate the various energy centers, or chakras, along the spine.

Key elements of Kundalini yoga include:

1. Asanas (Postures): Kundalini yoga incorporates a variety of physical postures and movements designed to strengthen the body, increase flexibility, and stimulate energy flow. These postures are often dynamic and may be combined with specific breathwork and mantra chanting.

2. Pranayama (Breathwork): Breathing techniques play a crucial role in Kundalini yoga. Practitioners use specific breathwork exercises to regulate the flow of energy in the body, increase vitality, and calm the mind. Techniques such as Breath of Fire (rapid, rhythmic breathing) and alternate nostril breathing are commonly practiced.

3. Meditation: Meditation is central to Kundalini yoga practice. Various meditation techniques, including chanting mantras, focusing on the breath, or visualizing energy flow, are employed to quiet the mind, enhance awareness, and connect with the inner self.

4. Mantra (Chanting): Chanting sacred sounds or mantras is a fundamental aspect of Kundalini yoga. Mantras are believed to have a powerful vibrational effect on the body and mind, helping to shift consciousness, balance energy, and elevate the spirit.

5. Mudras (Hand Gestures): Mudras are symbolic hand gestures used in Kundalini yoga to facilitate the flow of energy and enhance concentration during meditation and breathwork practices. Each mudra has its unique significance and effect on the body-mind system.

6. Visualization: Visualization techniques are employed in Kundalini yoga to focus the mind and channel energy. Practitioners may visualize the movement of energy along the spine, the activation of chakras, or the attainment of specific goals or states of consciousness.

7. Rituals and Ceremonies: Kundalini yoga may incorporate rituals and ceremonies, such as puja (worship), fire ceremonies (agni hotra), or group chanting (kirtan), to deepen spiritual connection and honor divine energies.

Kundalini yoga is often described as a holistic practice that integrates physical, mental, and spiritual elements to promote self-awareness, inner transformation, and union with the divine. It is taught by certified instructors in group classes, workshops, and retreats worldwide.

Studies show that yoga can help reduce stress, which can affect fertility - specific poses can help promote baby-making by increasing blood flow to your pelvis, stimulating hormone-producing glands, and releasing muscle tension.

Yoga tones and nourishes your reproductive organs by stematically squeezing and then releasing them, and increasing the flow of oxygen, which encourages them to function optimally.

It's a great way to stay connected to your body at a time when it can feel like you’re out of control. 

The most important thing yoga can do for you when you’re trying to have a baby is help you calm the stress response. Cooling your jets and that chronic flight-or-fight response helps balance your hormones and makes your body a more inviting environment for a baby and makes it that much easier to conceive.