Leicester’s Kundalini Yoga History
Learn about the practice’s local roots and how you can try a class today.
What is Kundalini Yoga?
Kundalini yoga is a specific and structured practice. It blends posture (asana), breathwork (pranayama), hand seals (mudras), mantra, and focused meditation. The goal is to work with kundalinī, the life-force energy mapped through the body’s chakras.
In a typical class, you’ll work through a set sequence called a kriya, designed to achieve a specific outcome, such as balancing the nervous system, boosting glandular function, or cultivating mental clarity and resilience.[1] Its contemporary spread in the West is tied to 3HO (founded in 1969 by Yogi Bhajan), which helped establish teacher communities in cities like Leicester.[2]
Why Kundalini Yoga Thrives in Leicester
While many types of yoga are available in the city, Kundalini yoga found particularly fertile ground here for two key reasons that work together.
- Cultural Resonance: The practice’s use of mantra and its Sikh-inflected vocabulary connected with members of Leicester’s large and established Punjabi Sikh community.[3]
- Public Access: From the 1970s onwards, council-run adult learning courses normalised yoga for everyone, creating a city-wide audience curious about different styles beyond what was offered in community or faith centres.[4]
This dual environment meant that Kundalini could appeal to people with direct cultural connections to its roots, while also being accessible to the wider public who were discovering yoga as a tool for wellbeing through secular classes. This combination allowed a dedicated community of teachers and practitioners to grow and be sustained over decades.
Where to Try Yoga Classes in Leicester
If you’re looking to start your Kundalini yoga journey in Leicester, here is a great local option.
Joti Yoga (Leicester) – Offers cosy small-group Kundalini classes. You can see the schedule and book online.[5]
Is Kundalini Right for You?
- Choose Kundalini yoga if you want a dynamic, energetic practice combining breath, mantra, and movement.
- Try a general Hatha class if your main goal is flexibility and gentle relaxation.
- Always look for teachers with recognised certifications (e.g., KRI for Kundalini) and clear safeguarding policies.
Book a Class
The best way to experience Kundalini yoga is to try a class. To find out more or book your spot, please call or text Joti Yoga on +447743327102.
References
- Kundalini background. Kundalini Yoga (Wikipedia), Kundalini (Wikipedia) ↩
- 3HO history/timeline. 3HO History, 3HO (Wikipedia) ↩
- Sikh community context in Leicester. Leicester Council of Faiths, Hansard Parliament UK ↩
- Leicester Adult Learning / Council courses. Leicester City Council, Leicester Adult Ed College ↩
- Joti Yoga (Leicester). Joti Yoga Classes ↩
- Shree Hindu Temple & Community Centre. Temple Website ↩