Freedom Within - How Kundalini Yoga Helps Break the Chains of Addiction By Tina Hopff

Back in the 1970s, studies in the United States began exploring the impact of yoga on addiction recovery. In one study, two groups of individuals in recovery were formed. One group was allowed to choose any form of physical activity, while the other group specifically practiced Hatha Yoga. The results were remarkable: the relapse rate in the general activity group was around 30%, while in the Hatha Yoga group, it dropped dramatically to just 3%.

Around the same time, during the Woodstock era and the height of the hippie movement—when many were experimenting with drugs—Yogi Bhajan arrived in the U.S. His mission was clear: to show people how to reach elevated states of consciousness through Kundalini Yoga, without the need for substances. He introduced a practice that empowered individuals to live a drug-free, addiction-free lifestyle, while reconnecting with their own spiritual essence.

Yogi Bhajan created accessible programs that incorporated powerful tools: breathwork, meditation, mantras, and kriyas (specific sets of yogic exercises) designed to address and transform addictive behaviors.

Addiction, by definition, is anything from which you cannot voluntarily withdraw. The list of potential addictions is vast: drugs, alcohol, gambling, smoking, disordered eating, codependency, workaholism, media, technology, even chronic stress.

Recently, I joined a course within our Kundalini Yoga community called Overcoming Addictive Behaviour. Something about the theme drew me in. Although I’ve lived a sober lifestyle—free of drugs and alcohol—I was surprised to learn that nearly everyone has at least one addiction. I began to wonder: ‘what are mine?’

We were guided to explore the root causes of addiction, most of which trace back to childhood experiences. As our teacher reminded us often: “This is not your fault.”

Through the 60-hour course, I quickly recognised my own patterns—particularly around food. I’ve always had a sweet tooth and relied on my daily cup of coffee. While these habits may seem harmless, sugar and caffeine are known to have negative effects on both body and mind.

Using the tools of Kundalini Yoga—specific kriyas, meditations, mantras, and a juice detox—I began to reset my habits. The process wasn’t always easy or "lekker”, it needs discipline and commitment to show up for yourself every day no excuses and avoiding for a while theses naughty aisles in the shops, but benefits were profound. Simply becoming aware of my addictions and understanding their origins has been priceless.

This journey demands commitment. Commitment to truth, to self-awareness, and to healing. And the beauty of it all? There is a way to recover—without needing medication or external fixes. You are not alone.

One of the most powerful realisations I had was that, when truly tuned in, the body begins to choose what it really needs. Through consistent practice, I discovered how breathwork, meditation, chanting, and movement can rewire the brain, regulate the nervous system, and open new pathways for freedom and healing.

Kundalini Yoga isn’t just a spiritual practice. It’s a powerful technology—one that can truly change lives.

I’ve been practicing yoga for nearly 30 years, and Kundalini Yoga for over 12 of those years. For the past decade, I’ve had the honour of sharing this sacred practice as a certified Kundalini Yoga teacher.

For personal consultations or to join my classes, feel free to contact me. Beginning a regular Kundalini Yoga practice is the first step toward healing, clarity, and a brand-new beginning.