Meet the Innovators: Yogi Bhajan

His Kundalini Yoga has developed into a thriving community.

By Holly Hammond

The accomplishments of Yogi Bhajan are testament to the power of Kundalini Yoga. His 3HO (Healthy, Happy, Holy) Foundation, based in Espanola, New Mexico, has over 300 centers in 38 countries and serves as a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations. 3HO businesses such as Yogi Tea and Golden Temple restaurants contribute to the economy of New Mexico, where Yogi Bhajan serves as an advisor to the governor. He is also chief religious authority for the Sikhs of the Western hemisphere.

Born in what is now Pakistan, Yogi Bhajan moved to the United States in 1968. His Kundalini Yoga is a system of breath control, meditation, and calisthenic-type asanas. "In the last 30 years yoga awareness has grown by leaps and bounds. Kundalini Yoga has made people health and food conscious. It has given them social awareness and values through meditation and self-discipline. It has taken away neurosis, fear, and insecurity. It has created community and social pride for positive achievement. It has fulfilled us with human beauty and God's blessings and bounty. We are grateful to the sages who brought this science to us."