What should I expect during a Kundalini yoga class? 

Class begins with a short chant followed by a warm-up to stretch the spine and improve flexibility. From there, you move into the kriya (a preset series of poses done with a specific breathing technique), then a sound healing by the teacher playing a large gong, ending with a meditation and closing song or chant. 

How does Kundalini Yoga differ from other forms of yoga? 

It incorporates the physical, mental and spiritual aspects of yoga into one cohesive and integrated system. It has a much broader emphasis on breathing, meditation, hand positions or mudras, chanting or mantra and spirituality. The practice balances the glandular system, strengthens the nervous system and expands the lung capacity and purifies the bloodstream. It enables you to harness the energy of your mind and emotions, so you can be in control of yourself, rather than be controlled by your thoughts and feelings. 

What should I expect during the men’s group meetings?

We typically start each meeting giving each man an opportunity to “check-in” on how he is feeling physically and emotionally. Then, each meeting is facilitated with a prompted subject where men are encouraged to share how the message connects with them - some may offer understanding or perspective with others. Also, during each meeting, men are invited to participate in some form of somatic practice, meditation, or mindfulness exercise that can further be used as a daily practice, outside of the men’s group. And we close the meeting inviting each man to “check-out” with how they feel after our discussion.

Is it safe to awaken your Kundalini? 

Kundalini is designed to be safe and progressive. We systematically train our mind and attune our bodies to safely hold higher frequencies of energy.

How can I as a Christian/Muslim/Jewish/Other believe that God is within us and that practicing Kundalini yoga is not in itself a sin? 

Kundalini yoga is about experiencing God within. It is not a religion, has nothing to do with beliefs and is not a substitute for religious practices. Kundalini has the effect of uplifting our spirit. It works from within, energizing our normally dormant spiritual energy. It can help us find God, but in a non-denominational way. Regular practice will make you a better believer, no matter what religious background. Whatever your beliefs, the end goal is the same…life is not about being identified with a label, life is about being divinely you!

What is Somatic Experiencing?

The word “somatic” comes from Greek “soma” which means body. Somatic Experiencing is a body-mind therapy focused on using sensations and experiences within the body to relieve stress and/or heal trauma.

Is Manta Men’s group therapy?  

While the work we do in the men’s group may feel therapeutic, it is not formal therapy.

What subjects/topics are discussed in the men’s group?  

Leadership, emotional development, career, fatherhood, masculinity, stress release techniques, are just some topics we share our experiences and support one another.. But where the real work happens is the times we hold the space and provide support for any man who wishes to explore his own trauma, in whatever form it may live within his body.  

FAQ'S