Kundalini Yoga - Aspects, Origin, And Meaning

What Is Kundalini Yoga?

Everything and everyone we contact with in life is full with vivid energy. Kundalini Yoga, which wakes you to the force of internal energy, ushered us into a broad spiritual awakening that impacted all area of our life. 

• Kundalini yoga is intended to improve your consciousness and help you go beyond your ego by awakening this energy. The practice is often referred to as "yoga of awareness."

• Chanting, singing, breathing exercises, and repeated postures are all part of Kundalini yoga.

• Its goal is to awaken your Kundalini energy, also known as shakti. This is a spiritual force that is said to reside at the base of your spine.

Kundalini yoga is derived from kundalini, which is described in Vedantic culture as latent energy at the base of the spine that is awakened through yoga and directed upward via the chakras in the process of spiritual perfection. 

• Kundalini is a force connected with the divine feminine, according to devotees. 

• Shaktism and Tantra schools of Hinduism have impacted Kundalini yoga as a yoga school. 

• It gets its name from an emphasis on kundalini energy awakening via frequent mantra, tantra, yantra, yoga, or meditation practice.

It's critical to understand what Kundalini is, what it does to your mind, body, and soul, and why it works in order to lead others toward living this high vibrational lifestyle.

• We will all experience successes, victories, difficulties, and problems throughout our lives. Kundalini teaches us how to respond to life's ups and downs from a more impartial perspective. 

• This ancient therapeutic practice was the very first yoga ever devised, and its technologies have been scientifically proved to stimulate particular areas of the brain that enhance awareness and produce more balanced control. 

• This technique aims to strengthen the nervous system on a cellular level and raise your energy awareness via breath, precise movements, and time.

Origins Of Kundalini Yoga

Although Kundalini yoga is performed all throughout the globe, no one knows where it originated. 

The idea of Kundalini energy has been around for millennia, and it was first described around 1,000 B.C. in ancient Vedic writings. 

• Yogi Bhajan, a Pakistani yoga instructor, is best identified with Kundalini yoga. In the 1960s, he is credited with bringing the technique to Western nations.

• “Kundalini” is derived from the Sanskrit word “kundal,” which meaning “circle.” 

• It may also apply to a snake that is coiled. Kundalini energy, according to practitioners, is like that coiled snake: it sleeps at the base of your spine, unaroused.

Kundalini Yoga Chakras

Kundalini yoga is used to awaken this energy, allowing it to flow up and down your spine via the chakras.

Chakras are the seven energy centers in your body according to yoga. 

They are as follows:

1. heart chakra 
2. throat chakra 
3. third eye chakra 
4. crown chakra 
5. root chakra 
6. sacral chakra, 
7. solar plexus

Kundalini energy is said to help balance these chakras and contribute to spiritual health as it increases.

• Kundalini yoga is believed to lead to spiritual enlightenment with consistent practice. It's known as a "Kundalini awakening."

What Distinguishes It From Other Kinds Of Yoga?

Kundalini yoga is a higher spiritual practice than other types of yoga.

• Physical motions are still used, but they aren't the main emphasis. 

• This is not the same as hatha or vinyasa yoga, which are both based on physical postures.

• Kundalini yoga is also more precise and repetitious than other forms of yoga. 

• Unlike other forms of yoga, Kundalini yoga incorporates chanting, singing, motions, and breathing into precise sequences.

• Breathing, mantras, kriyas, and mudras are also a critical part of the practice.

The Major Components Of Kundalini Yoga.

• Chant to begin. 

• An opening chant, also known as tuning in, starts each class.

• Warm-up, also known as pranayama. 

• You'll perform pranayama (breathing exercises) and occasionally motions to extend your spine. 

• Pranayama is a breathing technique that teaches you how to regulate your breath.

• Kriya. 

• A kriya is a set of postures, breathing exercises, mudras (hand positions), music, and meditation exercises. 

• Your teacher determines the duration and intensity of the kriya.

• Relaxation. 

• This enables the kriya's benefits to be absorbed by both your body and mind.

• Meditation. 

• Your teacher will lead you through meditation in order to help you develop awareness.

• Chant till the end. 

• A concluding chorus concludes the lesson.

What Does Kundalini Mean?

Kundalini means "coiled snake" in Sanskrit. 

• "Circular, annular" is the Sanskrit adjective kundalin. 

• In the 12th-century Rajatarangini chronicle, it appears as a noun for "a snake" in the meaning of "coiled," as in "producing ringlets." 

• In the Mahabharata, Kunda is the name of a Naga. 

• Kunda is a word that meaning "bowl, water-pot." 

• The Sanskrit feminine word kundali means "ring, bracelet, coil of a rope," and it is the name of a "serpent-like" Shakti in Tantrism dating back to the 11th century, as recorded in the Saradatilaka.

What has come to be known as "Kundalini yoga" in the twentieth century, after a technical word exclusive to this school, is really a synthesis of Bhakti Yoga devotion and chanting, Raja Yoga meditation, and Shakti Yoga strength and energy manifestation. 

• It may, however, incorporate haha yoga methods like bandha, pranayama, and asana, Patanjali's kriya yoga, which includes self-discipline, self-study, devotion to God, dhyana, and samadhi, and tantric visualization and meditation techniques called as samsketas in laya yoga.

• Laya may refer to yoga methods or the impact of "absorption" of the individual into the cosmic, as in Raja yoga. 

• The Yoga-Tattva-Upanishad, the Varaha Upanishad, the Goraksha Paddhati, the Amaraugha Prabodha, and the Dattatreya Yoga Shastra all mention laya yoga, which comes from the Sanskrit word laya, which means "dissolution," "extinction," or "absorption." 

Due to a lengthy history of syncretism, the precise boundaries between traditional yoga systems are sometimes unclear. 

• As a result, many of the earliest texts on Kundalini originate from tantric and haha traditions books, such as the Hatha Yoga Pradipika and the Shiva Samhita. 

• To attain kundalini awakening, the trained yogi practices "the four yogas," according to the Shiva Samhita, whereas inferior pupils may rely only on one technique: 
• "Hatha Yoga and Mantra Yoga are two types of yoga. 

• The third is Laya Yoga. Raja Yoga is the fourth. It is devoid of dualism."

It was formerly thought that holy energy was generated at the base of the spine in early Eastern religion. 

• Kundalini helps to “uncoil the snake” and reconnect us to this holy force within.

• Kundalini was once a study of energy physics and spiritual philosophy, and royalty would meet with Kundalini Masters to hear the ancient scientific teachings of Kundalini as well as spiritual visions. 

• Harbhajan Singh Khalsa Yogiji, often known as Yogi Bhajan, is credited for introducing Kundalini to Western society.

You may also want to read more about Kundalini Yoga here.

SADHANA YOGA ~ EXERCISES TO AWAKEN THE KUNDALINI

Before attempting to awaken Kundalini, one must become fully desireless and full of Vairagya. Only when a man rises above Kama, Krodha, Lobha, Moha, Mada, and other impurities will it be awoken. Kundalini can be reawakened by emerging above sensual impulses.

Kundalini awakening would favor the Yogi who has a clean heart and a mind void of emotions and urges. If a man with a lot of impurities in his mind uses power to awaken the Sakti through Asanas, Pranayamas, and Mudras, he will lose his legs and fall. He will be unable to progress up the Yogic ladder. This is the primary explanation for people going out of their way or developing physical ailments. Yoga is not in any way harmful. Purity comes first, followed by a detailed understanding of the Sadhana, a qualified guide, and a consistent, incremental practice. There are many temptations on the path to Kundalini awakening, and a Sadhaka lacking innocence would not be able to withstand them.

Theoretical understanding is just as essential as experience. Some people believe the principle isn't necessary at all. They provide one or two unusual examples that demonstrate that Kundalini has been awoken even in people who have no prior knowledge of Nadis, Chakras, or Kundalini. It may have been by accident or by the grace of a Guru. Nobody should predict this to ignore the theoretical side of things. When you see a man whose Kundalini has been awoken by the grace of a Guru, you will not immediately begin to disregard the practical side of things and spend your time passing from one Guru to the next. A man with a thorough understanding of the philosophy and consistent experience achieves the intended result easily.

Hatha Yogis can awaken Kundalini through Pranayama, Asanas, and Mudras; Raja Yogis can awaken Kundalini through focus and mind training; Bhaktas can awaken Kundalini through devotion and perfect self-surrender; Jnanis can awaken Kundalini through analytical will; Tantrikas will awaken Kundalini through Mantras; and Guru Kripa will awaken Kundalini through touch, The state of Samadhi and Mukti is influenced by the rousing of Kundalini and its union with Siva at the Sahasrara Chakra. Without the Kundalini awakening, no Samadhi is possible.

For a select few, either of the methods mentioned above will suffice to awaken the Kundalini. Many people would have to use a combination of strategies. This is determined by the Sadhakas' progress and position on the spiritual path. The Guru will determine the Sadhaka's true position and recommend a suitable method for successfully awakening the Kundalini in a short span of time.

This is similar to a doctor administering the right drug for a patient to treat a certain illness. The illnesses of various people can not be cured with the same treatment. Similarly, one Sadhana can not be suitable for everyone.

Many people nowadays mistakenly believe that they have mastered innocence, make mistakes in process selection, and overlook many essential aspects of Sadhana. They're pitiful, deluded souls. Rajasic Sadhakas who are self-assured will pick and choose exercises that appeal to them in an erratic way, abandoning all of them when they experience severe difficulties.

Prana, along with mind and Agni, ascends through Brahma Nadi after Kundalini awakens. Via special exercises such as Mahabheda, Sakti Chalana, and others, you will be able to raise it to the Sahasrara Chakra.

It pierces the Muladhara Chakra as soon as it awakens (Bheda). It must be transported to Sahasrara through various Chakras. When Kundalini is at one Chakra, it produces extreme fire, and when it moves on to another Chakra, the previous Chakra becomes very cold and dead.

The manifestations of Kundalini awakening include freedom from Kama, Krodha, Raga, and Dvesha, as well as mental harmony, celestial love, astral vision, supreme fearlessness, desirelessness, Siddhis, divine intoxication, and metaphysical Ananda. When a man is at ease, he is well aware of his surroundings and the world around him. As it awakens, he is no longer alive like the rest of the universe. He is unconcerned with his physical appearance. He achieves the condition of Unmani. When Kundalini flies from Chakra to Chakra, it opens layer after layer of the mind, giving the Yogi psychic abilities. He regains command of the five elements. He is in the Chidakasa as it meets the Sahasrara Chakra (knowledge space).

Many people misunderstand and take the Kundalini Sakti's awakening, union with Siva, enjoyment of the nectar, and other Kundalini Yoga functions mentioned in the Yoga Sastras literally. They believe that men are Siva and women are Sakti, and that the aim of Kundalini Yoga is merely sexual union. They continue to deliver flowers and worship their wives with lustful proclivities after misinterpretations of Yogic texts. The word "divine coma resulting from nectar consumption" is often misrepresented. They drink a variety of wine and other intoxicating beverages and pretend to be in Divine ecstasy. It's all a case of stupidity. They are completely incorrect. This kind of prayer and union isn't Kundalini Yoga at all.

They focus their attention on sexual centers and end up ruining themselves. Some stupid young boys pretend that the Kundalini has gone up to their neck by doing one or two Asanas, Mudras, and a little Pranayama for a few days in whatever way they like. They dress up as large Yogis. They are pitiful, delusory beings. Even a Vedanti (a Jnana Yoga student) can only attain Jnana Nishtha by reawakening the Kundalini Sakti, which is dormant at the Muladhara Chakra. If it is Raja Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Hatha Yoga, or Jnana Yoga, no superconscious state or Samadhi is possible without awakening this primordial spirit.

It is easy to awaken the Kundalini, but it is extremely difficult to guide it through the Chakras to the Sahasrara Chakra. It necessitates a lot of discipline, perseverance, purity, and consistent practice. The Yogi who has brought everything to the Sahasrara Chakra is really the lord of all powers. Due to false Tushti, most Yogic students end their Sadhana halfway through (satisfaction). When they have mystic visions and psychic abilities, they believe they have arrived at their destination. They want to show off their abilities in front of the public in order to gain Khyati (reputation and fame) and wealth. This is a tragic oversight. Only complete realization will bring ultimate salvation, perfect happiness, and Highest Bliss.

Hatha Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Raja Yoga, and Jnana Yoga will be listed one by one as different methods of awakening the Kundalini. Any aspirants would not be able to achieve perfection by a single process. For the vast majority of people, a harmonious mix of both approaches is needed. On the following sections, I will describe the various exercises for awakening the Kundalini.

If you are smart enough, after reviewing the various exercises, you can easily choose the Sadhana form that best suits you and achieve success.

The state of Samadhi and Mukti is influenced by the rousing of Kundalini and its union with Siva at the Sahasrara Chakra. You must have Deha Suddhi (purity of body), Nadi Suddhi (purification of Nadis), Manas-Suddhi (purity of mind), and Buddhi Suddhi (purity of mind) before you can awaken the Kundalini (purity of intellect). 

The following six exercises are recommended for body purification: 

1. Dhauti, 
2. Basti, 
3. Neti, 
4. Nauli, 
5. Tratak, and 
6. Kapalabhati. 

In Hatha Yoga, these are known as Shat-Karma, or the six purifying exercises.

You may also want to read more about Kundalini Yoga and Holistic Healing here.

11 Kundalini Yoga Benefits - 5 Kundalini Awakening Symptoms

Kundalini Yoga's Scientifically Researched & Validated Benefits

Kundalini yoga offers a number of scientifically validated and anecdotal advantages. Let's take a closer look at them.

1. Enhances cognitive performance

• Researchers examined 81 individuals with moderate cognitive impairment in a 2017 controlled trial. 

• The participants were split into two groups at random. For 12 weeks, one group did Kundalini yoga and the other got memory improvement training.

• While both groups improved their memory significantly at the conclusion of the research, only the Kundalini group improved their executive functioning in the short and long term.

• This involves, among other things, thinking, problem-solving, and cognitive flexibility.

• The group who practiced Kundalini yoga experienced less symptoms of depression at the conclusion of the research, in addition to cognitive gains.

2. Anxiety And Stress Alleviation.

• Kundalini yoga, like other types of yoga, may help alleviate tension and anxiety.

• Participants in a short 2017 study reported rapid stress reduction after practicing Kundalini yoga. After three months of practice, the impact persisted.

• A 2018 research found that 8 weeks of Kundalini yoga reduced anxiety in individuals. 

• According to the experts, Kundalini yoga may be an useful therapy option for individuals suffering from generalized anxiety disorder.

3. Enlightenment On A Spiritual Level

• As your Kundalini energy wakes, it's thought that you'll become more spiritually connected to yourself and others.

• NOTE: These advantages have not been scientifically proved, but they are backed up by personal experience. 

• The following are some of the alleged advantages:

1. More empathy boosted creativity and boosted charm.
2. Internal tranquility 
3. Improved vitality

4. Enhances Self-Esteem

• Kundalini yoga may promote body positivity and self-acceptance, according to a small 2017 research. 

• Nine women diagnosed with anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa had these advantages.

• The researchers believe that Kundalini yoga may aid in the treatment of eating disorders by enhancing self-perception and self-appreciation.

Observable Advantages In Terms Of Physiological Changes In Health

• There are many reasons why individuals choose to practice Kundalini, including its physical and psychological benefits. 

• As mentioned above, some of the most well-known Kundalini health advantages include a quicker metabolism, improved mood, and reduced stress levels.

5. Strengthens the body

 

• Kundalini yoga is a wonderful method to develop and tone your muscles since you maintain each position for a long amount of time (often up to five minutes!).  

• Some of the more powerful breathing methods, such as Breath of Fire, may also help you develop core strength since each exhale requires you to activate your abdominal muscles.

6. It makes you feel better.

 

• The “high” you feel after a hot yoga session is real—research has shown that practicing

• Kundalini yoga on a regular basis boosts serotonin (the happy hormone) production in the brain.

7. Blood pressure and heart rate are reduced.

 

• Kundalini yoga, particularly the deep breathing methods employed during it, has been proven in many studies to reduce the incidence of hypertension.

•  Long, steady breaths decrease tension and relax your autonomic nervous system, reducing blood pressure and pulse rate.

8. It improves your memory and concentration.

 

• Kundalini yoga, according to studies, may improve cognitive functioning by improving attention and memory. 

• A Kundalini kriya is also recommended by the Alzheimer's Research and Prevention Foundation for enhancing memory retention.

9. Improves your metabolism and digestion

 

• Kundalini yoga focuses on strengthening your core and diaphragm via a mix of breath and postures. 

• As a result, your digestion will improve, and experts have discovered that your metabolism will speed up (meaning your body processes energy more efficiently).

What Role Does Kundalini Yoga Have In Our Lives?

10. Kundalini is a tool that we utilize to live a life filled with lightness, joy, and limitless love. 

• You will begin to see how Kundalini Yoga impacts the energy, emotion, and motion in your body, not only by being aware of the geometry of your body, but also by seeing how this practice changes the energy, emotion, and motion in your body swiftly and effectively.

• We all have “locks” in our bodies where energy becomes trapped and we lose touch with our mind–body connection, the cosmos, and our greatest potential. 

• Kundalini Yoga draws energy from the base of your spine up, through the roof of your crown, and outward, allowing it to flow freely and establish balance in your energy centers and chakras.

• Some of the more technical aspects of this yoga practice, such as breathwork, mantras, kriyas, meditations, and mudras, work in synergy with Kundalini practice and they may help benefit you in several areas as a whole.

• The chanting, breathwork, and some of the postures may feel strange at first. However, in order to get the most out of this spiritual practice, you must commit to it, show up on a regular basis, and arrive with an open mind.

11. A kundalini awakening may be a powerful instrument for self-improvement and healing, allowing for long-term beneficial transformation. 

• Life, it is claimed, will never be the same after your kundalini wakes. 

• Your whole system, including your mind, body, and spirit, receives a tremendous energy boost, enabling you to move through life in a new manner. 

• The following are some of the advantages of a Kundalini awakening:

1. Feelings of happiness
2. Psychic powers improved
3. Increased creativity as a result of increased compassion and empathy
4. Spiritual connection is stronger.

The list of advantages of a kundalini awakening is not exhaustive. 

After awakening, many people describe wanting to alter their food, work, relationships, and sometimes their whole life to fit their new way of being.

Your Kundalini Awakening's Signs And Symptoms

There are a variety of indications that your kundalini is rising. 

• 1. When we get kundalini "symptoms," that energy is trying to gain our attention and awareness so that we may make the changes our soul wants. 

• We are then able to become who we were created to be and live our greatest calling. 

• The following are some of the observable signs and symptoms:

1. Having an increased sense of intuition
2. A strong feeling of mission and destiny
3. The desire to make improvements in one's life
4. Sleep problems, anxiety, energy spikes, and shaking are examples of physical and emotional changes.

Whatever symptoms you're having, try not to get too caught up with whether or not they're kundalini and why they're there. 

• Allow the energy to flow through you instead, and try to cure any unpleasant sensations that arise on a holistic level. 

• The less you fight these emotions, the faster they'll pass.

You may also want to read more about Kundalini Yoga here.

YOGA KUNDALINI UPANISHAD

Of the 108 Upanishads, the Yoga-Kundalini Upanishad is the eighty-sixth. It is included in the Krishna Yajurveda. It discusses Hatha and Lambika Yogas in detail. It ends with a summary of a non-qualified Brahman. Both seekers are on a search for the Non-dual Brahman.

The Yoga-Kundalini Upanishad is a very important work on Kundalini Yoga, despite being classified as a minor Upanishad. It starts with an examination of Chitta's essence. Samskaras and Vasanas, on the one hand, and Prana, on the other, are said to be the causes of Chitta's life. Prana is automatically controlled if Vasanas are controlled. The Vasanas are automatically monitored if Prana is controlled.

Methods for controlling Prana are presented in the Yoga-Kundalini Upanishad. Vasanas are not dealt with by the Yogic practitioner. He is interested in the methods for monitoring Prana.

Mitahara, Asana, and Shakti-Chalana are the three methods for controlling Prana offered in the Yoga-Kundalini Upanishad. The first chapter covers all three approaches in detail.

Mitahara's diet consists of light, soft, and nutritious foods. Two popular Asanas used by Yogic students are Padmasana and Vajrasana. The Kundalini is being awoken and sent to the crown of the head by Shakti-Chalana.

A two-pronged approach can be used to awaken Kundalini. The two traditions are Saraswati Chalana and Prana Restraint. Saraswati Chalana is the rousing of the Saraswati Nadi.

The Yoga-Kundalini Upanishad describes a clear method for arousing Kundalini. The Prana goes out in 16 digits when a human exhales. Inhalation results in just 12 digits, resulting in a 4 digit loss. If one can inhale Prana for 16 digits, the Kundalini is aroused. This is achieved by sitting in Padmasana and lengthening inwards 4 digits further as Prana is streaming through the left nostril.

The Yogic student should exploit the Saraswati Nadi and stir up the Kundalini Shakti with all his might, from right to left, repeatedly, using this lengthened energy. This procedure could take up to three quarters of an hour to complete. All of this is outlined in the Yoga-Kundalini Upanishad in a concise yet thorough manner.

Shaking the Saraswati Nadi has many benefits, the most significant of which is that it cures various diseases that arise in the stomach and cleanses and purifies the system. The Yogic pupil is initiated into the Kevala Kumbhaka after doing the Sahita Kumbhaka. The Prana is fully restrained in these two forms of Kumbhaka.

The Sahita Kumbhaka is divided into four divisions: Suryabheda Kumbhaka, Ujjayi Kumbhaka, Sitali, and Bhastrika. Suryabheda Kumbhaka eliminates intestinal worms as well as Vayu's four types of evils. Ujjayi cleanses the body, eliminates pathogens, and boosts gastric fire. 

It also reduces the heat in the head and the phlegm in the throat. Sitali is a body coolant. Gulma, dyspepsia, pliha, consumption, bile, fever, hunger, and poison are all destroyed by it. These ways of Sahita Kumbhaka cleanse and brace the entire physiological body for Kundalini Sakti stimulation and non-dual Brahman encounter.

Bhastrika Kumbhaka pierces the three knots, or Granthis, in addition to bringing about a host of beneficial physiological improvements. The Yoga-Kundalini Upanishad then instructs the Yogic student on how to do the three Bandhas. The Mulabandha is the mechanism by which the spincter muscles of the anus push up the downward inclination of the Apana (breath). 

The Apana is raised by this Bandha. It hits the Agni, or fuel, sphere. The Agni's flame grows long and is blown about by Vayu. Agni and Apana mix with the Prana in a heated state. Agni is a ruthless being.

Via the radiant heat of this fiery Agni, the fire that awakens and arouses the Kundalini appears in the body. The awakened Kundalini makes a hissing noise, stands up, and enters Brahmanadi's hole. This Mulabandha is practiced by the Yogins on a regular basis.

The other two Bandhas, namely the Uddiyana Bandha and the Jalandhara Bandha, also play a significant role in arousing the Sarasvati Nadi and Kundalini Shakti.

The Yoga-Kundalini Upanishad outlines the many challenges that Yogic students face after providing extensive knowledge of the Bandha techniques. It also explains how to get through these roadblocks.

There are seven causes of illness in the human body. 

1. Taking a nap during the day. 

2. Midnight vigils at a late hour. 

3. Excessive sexual activity. 

4. Navigating around crowds. 

5. The consequences of eating unhealthily. 

6. Urine and feces discharge are examined. 

7. Exhausting emotional operations involving the Prana.

Obstacles on the Yogic Path 

1. When diseases strike, the Yogic student makes the error of incorrectly attributing the illnesses to his Yoga practice. This is the first stumbling block in Yoga.
2. The Yogic student starts to question the Yoga Sadhana's effectiveness. This is the second stumbling block. 
3. The third barrier is carelessness or a state of misunderstanding. 
4. The fourth barrier is indifference or laziness. 
5. The connection to sense-objects is the sixth barrier, and sleep is the seventh. 
6. The seventh stumbling block is false belief or illusion. 
7. The eighth is preoccupation with earthly matters.
8. The ninth reason is a lack of confidence. 
9. The tenth impediment to Yoga practice is a lack of aptitude for understanding Yoga realities.

Many of these stumbling blocks should be avoided by diligent investigation and deliberation by sincere spiritual aspirants. The Upanishads go on to explain the method of rousing the Kundalini and transporting it to the Sahasrara by piercing through the Granthis.

The Kundalini, once awakened, pushes upwards, releasing a torrent of nectar. This is something that the Yogi loves, as it takes him free from all sensual desires. On 104, the Yogi takes a decision.

The Atman (Inner Reality), he is in the best possible spiritual state. He achieves equilibrium and devotes himself solely to the Atman or Self.

The Yogi's body achieves a very delicate state of spiritual Consciousness through the whole Kundalini Yoga Sadhana phase. 

All becomes Consciousness to the Yogi who has achieved Samadhi. The Yogi recognizes the macrocosm's and microcosm's oneness.

The Yogi enjoys the greatest Avastha since Kundalini Shakti has achieved the Sahasrara Kamala, or thousand-petalled lotus, and has been unified with Siva. This is the last of the beatitudes.

The Chakras are the essential energy centers of Shakti. Pranavayu manifests Prana Shakti in the living body through these centers.

Kundalini Yoga is for those who want to arouse the Kundalini Shakti in order to experience the Bliss of Union of Siva and Shakti through awakened Kundalini and receive the resulting Powers or Siddhis. 

This Yoga-Kundalini Upanishad is extremely important to them. It provides them with a thorough understanding of the Kundalini Yoga practices and procedures, with a focus on the Khechari Mudra.

Both Bhukti and Mukti are sought by the Kundalini Yogi. In and around the universe, he achieves salvation. Jnana Yoga is an ascetic and liberating course. Kundalini Yoga is a path that leads to happiness and liberation.

The Hatha Yogi aspires to have a body that is as solid as stone, balanced, pain-free, and therefore long-lived. The Yogi is the master of the body, as well as of life and death. His gleaming form exudes the vigor of youth. 

He loves the realm of shapes for as long as he has the will to survive. His death is a voluntary death (Ichha-Mrityu). The Yogi should follow the advice of a knowledgeable Guru.

The Serpent Power is the power that provides the entire body and all of its shifting Pranic powers with a static protection or Adhara. 

Yoga disturbs the balance of bodily identity, whose consciousness is the product of the preservation of these two poles, and therefore destroys the polarity as it resides in and as the body.

The Supreme Power, which is the future pole of Energy in the human body, is roused to motion. In the Sahasrara, the Shakti is shifted upward to join with Siva, the quiescent Consciousness.

The static Shakti is influenced and becomes active by Pranayama and other Yogic processes. The polarization of the body gives way as Kundalini unites with Siva in the Sahasrara and becomes fully dynamic. 

The two poles merge into one, resulting in the state of consciousness known as Samadhi. In the Consciousness, there is polarization. The body does, in fact, continue to exist as a subject of scrutiny from others.

The nectar that flows from the union of Siva and Shakti in Sahasrara sustains the Yogi's body as the Kundalini ascends. Glory to Mother Kundalini, who, through Her Infinite Grace and Strength, gently guides the Sadhaka from Chakra to Chakra, illuminating him and allowing him to realize his identity with the Supreme Brahman. The Yoga-Kundalini Upanishad places a high value on seeking out and finding the right Guru. It keeps on worshiping the enlightened Guru as God. Gurus have complete Self-illumination. In deluded people, he lifts the curtain of delusion.

While there are less realized Gurus in this Kali Yuga than in the Satya Yuga, they are still present to assist aspirants. They're still on the lookout for the right Adhikarins.

The Yoga-Kundalini Upanishad lists a number of challenges to Yoga practice. Some people begin doing Yoga, but as they run into difficulties, they are unsure how to continue. They have no idea how to get rid of them. On the spiritual route, there are many challenges, hazards, snares, and traps. Sadhakas will make a lot of mistakes on their way to enlightenment.

It is important that they be guided by a Guru who has already walked the journey and achieved the target.

There's one more thing you should know:

The Yoga-Kundalini Upanishad lists a number of challenges to Yoga practice. 

Some people begin doing Yoga, but as they run into difficulties, they are unsure how to continue. They have no idea how to get rid of them. There are many challenges to overcome.

In the spiritual journey, there are many risks, traps, and obstacles to avoid. 

• Sadhakas will make a lot of mistakes on their way to enlightenment.
• It is important that they be guided by a Guru who has already walked the journey and achieved the target.
• The Sushumna Nadi is another significant concept that can be found in the Yoga-Kundalini Upanishad. You must be fully familiar with this Nadi.
• Now, a word about Kundalini, whose stimulation is the primary goal of Kundalini Yoga. 
• The primordial energy or Shakti that lies dormant or resting in the Muladhara Chakra, the body's core, is Kundalini, the serpent-power or sacred light. 
• Because of its serpentine shape, it is known as the serpentine or annular force. 
• It's an occult entity that's electric and fiery, the great pristine energy that underpins both organic and inorganic matter.

You may also want to read more articles on Yoga and Holistic Healing Here.

Awakening the Kundalini

 

MOTHER KUNDALINI'S PRAYER

Mother Kundalini, wake up!

The Bliss of Brahman, whose essence is Eternal Bliss.

Thou, who sleeps like a snake on Muladhara's lotus,

Do thou bless me and leave thy place at the simple lotus, for I am sore, affected, and troubled in body and mind.

Taking thy upward path across the central canal, Consort of Siva, the Self-caused Lord of the Universe.

Svadhishthana, Manipuraka, Anahata, Vishuddha, and Ajna were left behind.

Join thyself to Siva, thy Lord and God.

At Sahasrara, the brain's thousand-petaled lotus.

O Mother, Giver of Supreme Bliss, play openly there.

Mother, that is Life, Wisdom, and Absolute Bliss.

Mother Kundalini, wake up! Get up.

 

EXPERIENCES ON AWAKENING OF KUNDALINI

During meditation you behold divine visions, experience divine smell, divine taste, divine touch, hear divine Anahata sounds. You receive instructions from God. These indicate that the Kundalini Shakti has been awakened. When there is throbbing in Muladhara, when hairs stand on their roots, when Uddiyana, Jalandhara and Mulabandha come involuntarily, know that Kundalini has awakened. When the breath stops without any effort, when Kevala Kumbhaka comes by itself without any exertion, know that Kundalini Shakti has become active. When you feel currents of Prana rising up to the Sahasrara, when you experience bliss, when you repeat Om automatically, when there are no thoughts of the world in the mind, know that Kundalini Shakti has awakened. 

When, in your meditation, the eyes become fixed on Trikuti, the middle of the eyebrows, when the Shambhavi Mudra operates, know that Kundalini has become active. When you feel vibrations of Prana in different parts inside your body, when you experience jerks like the shocks of electricity, know that Kundalini has become active. During meditation when you feel as if there is no body, when your eyelids become closed and do not open in spite of your exertion, when electric-like currents flow up and down the nerves, know that Kundalini has awakened. When you meditate, when you get inspiration and insight, when the nature unfolds its secrets to you, all doubts disappear, you understand clearly the meaning of the Vedic texts, know that Kundalini has become active. 

When your body becomes light like air, when you have a balanced mind in perturbed condition, when you possess inexhaustible energy for work, know that Kundalini has become active. When you get divine intoxication, when you develop power of oration, know that Kundalini has awakened. When you involuntarily perform different Asanas or poses of Yoga without the least pain or fatigue, know that Kundalini has become active. When you compose beautiful sublime hymns and poetry involuntarily, know that Kundalini has become active.

THE GRADATIONAL ASCENT OF THE MIND

The Chakras are centers of Shakti as vital force. In other words, these are centers of Pranashakti manifested by Pranavayu in the living body, the presiding Devatas of which are the names for the Universal Consciousness as It manifests in the form of these centers. The Chakras are not perceptible to the gross senses. Even if they were perceptible in the living body which they help to organize, they disappear with the disintegration of organism at death. 

Purity of mind leads to perfection in Yoga. Regulate your conduct when you deal with others. Have no feeling of jealousy towards others. Be compassionate. Do not hate sinners. Be kind to all. Success in Yoga will be rapid if you put your maximum energy in your Yogic practice. You must have a keen longing for liberation and intense Vairagya also. You must be sincere and earnest. Intense and constant meditation is necessary for entering into Samadhi. The mind of a worldly man with base desires and passions moves in the Muladhara and Svadhishthana Chakras or centers situated near the anus and the reproductive organ respectively. 

If one’s mind becomes purified the mind rises to the Manipura Chakra or the center in the navel and experiences some power and joy. If the mind becomes more purified, it rises to the Anahata Chakra or center in the heart, experiences bliss and visualizes the effulgent form of the Ishta Devata or the tutelary deity. When the mind gets highly purified, when meditation and devotion become intense and profound the mind rises to Visuddha Chakra or the center in the throat, and experiences more and more powers and bliss. Even when the mind has reached this center, there is a possibility for it to come down to the lower centers. When the Yogi reaches the Ajna Chakra or the center between the two eyebrows he attains Samadhi and realizes the Supreme Self, or Brahman. 

There is a slight sense of separateness between the devotee and Brahman. If he reaches the spiritual center in the brain, the Sahasrara Chakra, the thousand-petalled lotus, the Yogi attains Nirvikalpa Samadhi or superconscious state. He becomes one with the non-dual Brahman. All sense of separateness dissolves. This is the highest plane of consciousness or supreme Asamprajnata Samadhi. Kundalini unites with Siva. The Yogi may come down to the center in the throat to give instructions to the students and do good to others (Lokasamgraha). The mind of a worldly man with base desires and passions moves in the Muladhara and Svadhishthana Chakras or centers situated near the anus and the reproductive organ respectively. If one’s mind becomes purified the mind rises to the Manipura Chakra or the center in the navel and experiences some power and joy. 

If the mind becomes more purified, it rises to the Anahata Chakra or center in the heart, experiences bliss and visualizes the effulgent form of the Ishta Devata or the tutelary deity. When the mind gets highly purified, when meditation and devotion become intense and profound the mind rises to Visuddha Chakra or the center in the throat, and experiences more and more powers and bliss. Even when the mind has reached this center, there is a possibility for it to come down to the lower centers. When the Yogi reaches the Ajna Chakra or the center between the two eyebrows he attains Samadhi and realizes the Supreme Self, or Brahman. 

There is a slight sense of separateness between the devotee and Brahman. If he reaches the spiritual center in the brain, the Sahasrara Chakra, the thousand-petalled lotus, the Yogi attains Nirvikalpa Samadhi or superconscious state. He becomes one with the non-dual Brahman. All sense of separateness dissolves. This is the highest plane of consciousness or supreme Asamprajnata Samadhi. Kundalini unites with Siva. The Yogi may come down to the center in the throat to give instructions to the students and do good to others (Lokasamgraha).

PRANAYAMA FOR AWAKENING KUNDALINI

When you practice the following, concentrate on the Muladhara Chakra at the base of the spinal column, which is triangular in form and which is the seat of the Kundalini Shakti. Close the right nostril with your right thumb. Inhale through the left nostril till you count 3 Oms slowly. Imagine that you are drawing the Prana with the atmospheric air. Then close the left nostril with your little and ring fingers of the right hand. Then retain the breath for 12 Oms. Send the current down the spinal column straight into the triangular lotus, the Muladhara Chakra. Imagine that the nerve-current is striking against the lotus and awakening the Kundalini. Then slowly exhale through the right nostril counting 6 Oms. Repeat the process from the right nostril as stated above, using the same units, and having the same imagination and feeling. This Pranayama will awaken the Kundalini quickly. Do it 3 times in the morning and 3 times in the evening. Increase the number and time gradually and cautiously according to your strength and capacity. In this Pranayama, concentration on the Muladhara Chakra is the important thing. Kundalini will be awakened quickly if the degree of concentration is intense and if the Pranayama is practiced regularly.

KUNDALINI PRANAYAMA

In this Pranayama, the Bhavana is more important than the ratio between Puraka, Kumbhaka and Rechaka. Sit in Padma or Siddha Asana, facing the East or the North. After mentally prostrating to the lotus-feet of the Sat-guru and reciting Stotras in praise of God and Guru, commence doing this Pranayama which will easily lead to the awakening of the Kundalini. Inhale deeply, without making any sound. As you inhale, feel that the Kundalini lying dormant in the Muladhara Chakra is awakened and is going up from Chakra to Chakra. At the conclusion of the Puraka, have the Bhavana that the Kundalini has reached the Sahasrara. The more vivid the visualization of Chakra after Chakra, the more rapid will be your progress in this Sadhana. Retain the breath for a short while. 

Repeat the Pranava or your Ishta Mantra. Concentrate on the Sahasrara Chakra. Feel that by the Grace of Mother Kundalini, the darkness of ignorance enveloping your soul has been dispelled. Feel that your whole being is pervaded by light, power and wisdom. Slowly exhale now. And, as you exhale feel that the Kundalini Shakti is gradually descending from the Sahasrara, and from Chakra to Chakra, to the Muladhara Chakra. Now begin the process again. It is impossible to extol this wonderful Pranayama adequately. It is the magic wand for attaining perfection very quickly. Even a few days’ practice will convince you of its remarkable glory. Start from today, this very moment. May God bless you with joy, bliss and immortality.

You may also want to read more about Kundalini Yoga and Holistic Healing here.