Original Light: The Morning Practice of Kundalini Yoga

by Snatam Kaur

The Kundalini Yoga tradition speaks of a call to the Divine that awakens “The Original Light of the soul.” In gatherings across the globe, Snatam Kaur and her fellow musicians have shared that radiance through sacred chants. With Original Light, this beloved devotional singer guides us into the heart of the path, with the Aquarian Sādhanā as a foundation to understand the tradition's daily principals, morning practices, and sacred chanting experiences.Kundalini, the universal life force, has for centuries been shrouded in misconception and lore. Many of us have heard of it, yet to directly experience it may seem unimaginable. But in fact, Snatam Kaur assures us that, through Kundalini Yoga, the capacity to experience it is within all of us—a natural and limitless source of physical health, stillness, joy, energetic strength, and loving connection with others and all of creation.Original Light was written for those seeking a compassionate and supportive guide to creating a vibrant and sustainable daily spiritual practice. Here, Snatam shares with honesty and gentle humor her own stories, challenges, “aha” moments, and many practical pointers gained from her lifelong journey in what she calls “soul work.”Readers first explore the philosophy and foundational principles of Kundalini Yoga as taught by its founder Yogi Bhajan, and then learn the five morning practices of the Aquarian Sādhanā, Wake-Up Routine—establishing a sacred space, bathing and purification, healthy diet and elimination guidelines, and moreJap Jī—from 15th-century sage and founder of the Sikh tradition, Gurū Nānak, this sacred recitation is both a map and a direct expression of our union with the DivineKundalini Yoga Kriyas—nine energizing posture and movement sets for creating a somatic space for your spiritAquarian Sādhanā Mantras—seven devotional chants as the sun rises to open the doors of liberation and experience bliss and ecstasy through sacred soundGateway to Divinity—the closing transition stage that integrates your own spiritual tradition and helps you to focus your energies and set your intentions for the day aheadFor those of all faiths, Original Light provides an ideal introduction and resource to improve our health, find greater freedom and stillness within, and illuminate each moment of the day.

Genres: Nonfiction

406 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 1, 2016

Reviews

[Chelsea · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was excellent. I couldn't put it down once I started, as I recently started a more committed Kundalini Yoga practice. I found it very helpful in interpreting mantras and in its demonstrations of kriyas. The CD's that came with it were a nice bonus. At the end, she includes an interpretation of the Jap Ji to go along with the CD. I find Snatam to be very humble, beautiful, and inspiring, as a female role model. Her music does not disappoint and her book was an excellent resource to pair along with it. I admire her 3 hour morning practice even though it is far from attainable for many. She provides suggestions and modification for those of us who choose to commit less time each morning. If you are questioning reading this book, do it!

[Zemirah]

Loved this book! Beautiful introduction to the Aquarian Sadhana. Snatam writes with such sweetness.

[Gina · Rating 3 out of 5]

I once watched a documentary about a man learning different styles of yoga. At the time, I was disappointed by his dismissal of Kundalini as Kunda-looney. Alas, I can understand his stance a bit better.

I have read and favorably reviewed other Kundalini yoga books, but something about the density of this book pulled out the skeptic.

As noted in another review, Kundalini yoga presents itself (rather Yogi Bhajan presents it) as a science. Interesting! Where is the Kundalini Lab?

On page 89, Kaur states, "All of the yoga sets (or Kriyas) given by Yogi Bhajan work scientifically; they are absolutely precise and effective." So...what lengthy controlled studies does she cite to substantiate this claim? "He knew from his own personal mastery exactly how long each Kriya would take to do it's work."

Anecdotal evidence is science? More Yogi Bhajan science: since hair takes a lot of protein to create, cutting it or shaving it requires the body to use more protein (to regrow the hair?), protein which is needed "for other important health functions." Additionally Yogi Bhajan taught that men needed to grow beards to cover the pranic nerve...as protection from the moon. Luckily women's "nervous systems can handle the effects of the moon."

Original Light is more dense, more textbook-like, than other Kundalini yoga books that I have read.

If you're looking to deepen your Kundalini yoga practice -- and focus on the Aquarian Sādhanā -- this may be the book for you.

[Cheri Flake · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love. Love. Love.

[Lux Cunningham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Santa Kaur is so purely genuine and so compassionate and even funny. A TRUE inspiration.

[Linda Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent resource to start your morning Kundalini practice! Snatnam Kaur shares Her personal experiences with us. The book also includes 2 CD's which are absolutely beautiful!