Dahn yoga - Hatha Yoga, Bikram Yoga And Other Types of Yoga . Review of Dahn Yoga Cult And Controversy

Submitted by Kevin Pederson on December 30, 2009

Dahn Yoga - Hatha Yoga, Bikram Yoga And Other Types of Yoga

Yoga has branched into different forms that have gained popularity among practitioners. Bikram yoga (a type of hatha yoga) is one such popular branch of yoga. Dahn or Dahnak yoga is a Korean yoga discipline founded by IIchi Lee. “Dahn” means vital or primal energy. Dahnak implies the study of energy or philosophy of energy for personal empowerment. This particular system of yoga applies equal importance to emotional, physical and spiritual well being. Many observers of this discipline have compared the exercises in Dahn yoga as a combination of tai-chi, martial arts and yoga. Dahn yoga is based on improving brain activity because the philosophy believes that every aspect of human life is controlled by the brain. Yoga essentially is a way to connect the body and mind. Similarly Dahn yoga also works towards improving the health of the person practicing this form of yoga by developing the energy system and enhancing the connection between the mind and body.

Dahn yoga differentiates itself from other forms of yoga on account of three key features. The three main features include control of energy as the life force, developing the body and brain connection and self healing. Dahn yoga promises better emotional stability, improved social interaction and communication skills. The exercises and meditation have a calming effect on the brain allowing better use of the brain.

Dahn Yoga Cult And Controversy
A typical class in Dahn yoga comprises of stretching exercises followed by a sequence of postures that stimulate circulation of energy across the body. The class may end after a short span of meditation. Reduced stress, tension relief and peaceful composition after a session of Dahn yoga can have a calming effect on the brain. Attending an average of ten to twelve classes of Dahn yoga is known to heal common ailments such as shoulder and neck problems, back pain, digestive problems and migraine headaches. Dahn yoga is promoted through the presence of Dahn yoga centers, Dahn yoga DVD’s and special workshops to understand the nuances of Dahn yoga and enjoy the health benefits. Dahn yoga has also had its share of controversy. Dahn yoga was criticized by certain sections of the society for developing a cult status. Though this criticism was much denied by Dahn yoga practitioners controversies continued to shroud this form of yoga due to death of a practitioner during a training event. Dahn yoga also came under some flak for causing undue influence, thought reform and for being an expensive program.