Kundalini Yoga is a practice that has different elements. We use asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing techniques), mantras, relaxation and meditation.
We begin our practice with the Adi Mantra "Ong Namo Guru Dev Namo". This mantra links us to a golden chain of masters and saints through which the teachings are transmitted. It connects us to the infinite spark of consciousness inside ourselves. It sets up a sacred space for our practice and helps to guide our practice with awareness. We also chant the mantra "Aad Guray Nameh Jugaad Guray Nameh Sat Guray Nameh Siri Guru Dayvay Nameh. This is a mantra of protection and is recited to invoke the protective energy of the universe.
After we have tuned in with the mantras, we usually prepare our bodies for the practice with a variety of warm ups. Then we practice a kriya. Kriya means completed action. In Kundalini Yoga a kriya is a series of postures, breath, and sound that work toward a specific outcome. Each kriya has a different effect, but all work on all levels of your being. At the end of the kriya students are guided into a state of relaxation which helps to integrate the benefits of the kriya. After relaxation, we practice meditation. We end the class with a prayer "May The Long Time Sun" and mantra "Sat Nam".