Kundalini is an ancient Sanskrit word that refers to a subtle form of spiritual energy linked with vitality and spiritual enlightenment. The word's complex etymology reflects the various states of kundalini. The word "kunda" in Sanskrit means a "well," which is interpreted to signify the unconscious storage of past thoughts and actions that the energy represents in its dormant state. "Kundala" means "ring," referring to the coiled shape by which the energy is typically imaged in its resting state. Finally, "kundalin" means "serpent," which refers to the living nature of this energy and its readiness to strike powerfully when aroused.
Definition
Kundalini is most often translated as “coiled.” In the Hindu religion, the term refers to a vital energetic force that exists in a dormant state at the base of the spine. In this form it is depicted as a serpent ready to strike. When activated, the energy spirals up the spine opening the body’s energetic centers, or chakras, which ultimately leads to the enlightenment of the individual. That the energy lies coiled when dormant signifies its potential force when activated.
Features
The energetic force referred to as kundalini can be understood in a variety of ways. Because it is said to reside at the base of the spine in the muladhara chakra, it has been linked to the libidinal force, or latent energy of sexuality. But this is also described as merely the unconscious or instinctive energy of physical existence. In religious contexts, kundalini has a sacred dimension in that it is likened to divine wisdom or gnosis.
Kundalini Yoga
The kundalini energy is activated by a variety of means. One is the practice of kundalini yoga, which is a mix of meditation techniques and postures, called asanas. The asanas are the stretching positions of hatha yoga. When combined with pranayama, or proper lifestyle, asanas increase the overall level of vitality of the kundalini energy and strengthen the practitioner’s will. With the aid of meditative techniques, the will can then be used to draw the kundalini energy up the spine.
Diksha
The term diksha is roughly translated as “preparation.” It refers to another approach toward kundalini that relies on religious devotion and grace, rather than strength of will, to draw the kundalini upwards. This typically revolves around service to an enlightened guru, who is able to impart energetic knowledge and capacity to the devotee. Mantra, or ritualized chanting, prayer, and the use of particular herbs, is also used to encourage the rising of kundalini energy.
Tantra
Tantra yoga is the use of sex and sexual practices to produce enlightenment. In this system, kundalini is strongly associated with sexual energy and orgasm. Through prolonged intercourse with delayed gratification, the energy of kundalini is awakened and can be induced up the spine and throughout the body. In tantric practice, the union of male and female takes on symbolic, even ritualistic, significance.
Medical Perspective
Western medicine has been skeptical of subtle energy systems like kundalini, but studies on the effects of meditation on the body have piqued some curiosity. According to research conducted by Shannahoff Khalsa at the University of California in San Diego, kundalini yoga techniques have been effective for treating some psychiatric disorders and potentially cancers. Preliminary findings suggest the same system that trains the will to raise kundalini energy up the spine can also be used to reverse some symptoms of psychosis.
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