One of the primary goals of kundalini yoga is to awaken a serpent. This serpent isn't of the reptilian type, but is instead a coiled energy that is believed to exist in the body. The activation of this energy may help you to reach a higher awareness of your self.
History
The techniques of kundalini yogi developed over thousands of years in the monasteries of Tibet and India, according to KundaliniYoga.org. In 1969, Yogi Bhagjan challenged the secrecy that had previously shrouded kundalini yoga by introducing it to the United States. The energy of kundalini, which the practice focuses on, is mentioned in the sacred Hindu texts known as "The Upanishads" that date back to fifth century B.C. However, the ideas of kundalini were passed down through oral traditions before they appeared in "The Upanishads." An article published on UC Berkeley's website states that kundalini yoga is taught in Tibetan Buddhism as a completion stage to many of their practices.
Description
The word kundalini is a metaphor for the belief that a universal energy exists within each person. The energy is believed to be located at the base of the spine. It is often described as a coiled snake or a curled lock of hair from the "beloved," or the creator. When this energy begins to uncoil it is known as the awakening of kundalini, according to Shakta Kaur Khalsa, author of "Yoga for Women." Khalsa states that kundalini represents the awakening of the self, while yoga is the science of the self. The energy of kundalini is also regarded as a feminine energy. It is sometimes referred to as Mata Shaki, which means the mother energy of creation.
Beliefs
The origins of kundalini yoga are rooted in the belief that each person has a subtle body, according to Machelle Seibel and Hari Khalsa, authors of "A Woman's Book of Yoga." In that subtle body are believed to be eight energy points known as chakras. They include the base chakra located at the base of your spine, which is believed to help keep you grounded. Next, the sacral chakra is located between your hips and represents your sexuality and creativity. Your will is represented in the solar plexus, which is located in the naval area. The heart chakra represents love and compassion. The throat chakra is believed to be the area where ideas manifest and power is given to your words. A chakra located on your forehead known as the brow chakra represents intuition. Finally, there is your crown chakra and your aura, which radiates around you. There are believed to be 10 bodies that represent how you manifest in the worlds, as well.
Goal
Kundalini yoga is a practice that can help to synchronize the chakras and bodies, according to Seibel and Khalsa. Practice of kundalini yoga also helps to release and activate the reservoir of energy believed to be stored at the fourth vertebra in the spine. The rise of this energy also helps to balance the chakras, according to Khalsa. In kundalini yoga, breathing exercises, meditation and movements are used to stimulate and direct the energy of the chakras and bodies. The kundalini energy releases when the downward pressure of prana energy of the upper body, chest, heart and rib cage mix with the apana energy located below the diaphragm, according the Seibel and Khalsa. Another goal of kundalini yoga is to reach a meditative state of stillness, or the stillpoint, where the Divine Self, or spirit, can be realized.
Dangers
Kundalini yoga may seem like harmless exercise or meditative practice; however, experts at UC Berkeley warn that potential dangers have been documented. Kundalini yoga may bring things to the consciousness before you are ready to deal with them. Typical side effects have included anxiety and agitation, according to UC Berkely. However, other imbalances, such as mental confusion, egotism, psychosis, sexual dysfunction, paranormal activity or severe mood swings can result. Also, physical symptoms, such as gastrointestinal problems, ringing in the ears or itching and burning are possible, according to ReligionFacts.com.
References
- "A Woman's Book of Yoga: Embracing Our Natural Life Cycles;" Machelle Seibel and Hari Kaur Khalsa; 2002
- "Yoga for Women: Health and Radiant Beauty for Every Stage of Life;" Shakta Kaur Khalsa; 2002
- Kundalini Yoga FAQ: UC Berkeley
- History of Kundalini: Awareness Center Yoga
- Serpent Symbolism: Kundalini yoga
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