1. Serpent, Spirit and Spine
In the Sanskrit language, Kundalini means "coiled" or "serpent." According to Indian mystical traditions Kundalini represents energy that rests at the base of the spine coiled like a snake around the tailbone. Kundalini is activated through spiritual practice and then moves upward around the spine to the top of the head. The experience of "Kundalini rising" is a form of spiritual awakening and enlightenment said to transform a person physically, physiologically, psychologically and spiritually.
2. Tantra Regulates Life Energy
Kundalini yoga, also known as Tantra yoga, uses postures to strengthen the body so it will be able to withstand the powerful Kundalini energy and related physiological changes. Kundalini or Tantra yoga practices emphasize a straight spine in the postures. The use of postures and breath working together influences the body's endocrine system. The yoga poses and breathing techniques help to regulate the flow of prana, or life energy, in the body in preparation for raising Kundalini.
3. Awaken Kundalini
Primarily a meditative discipline, Kundalini yoga's postures are meant to facilitate meditation and prepare the body for the Kundalini experience. People who practice this type of yoga sit in meditation for an extended time. During meditation they attempt to awaken Kundalini and draw it up from the base of their spine to the top of their head. They then try to control the movement of Kundalini in their bodies through meditative techniques.
4. Energize the Seven Chakras
Kundalini yoga and its meditative practices and beliefs are closely tied to the concept of chakras in Indian philosophy and medicine. The chakras are a series of energy centers aligned along the spine from the base of the tailbone to the top of the head. Each chakra is associated with unique properties including color, body processes, emotional qualities and spiritual attributes. Anatomically, the chakras correspond to nerve centers in the body. When Kundalini energy rises up the spine it is said to activate each of the chakras through which it passes.
5. The Snake Bites Some
Kundalini, or Tantric, meditative practices are rigorous. These intensive spiritual disciplines are best pursued by people experienced with yoga and meditation under the tutelage of a skilled teacher. There have been reports of people experiencing physical and psychological disturbances in association with Kundalini. Such upsets include tremors, unusual body movements, problems with breathing and body temperature, hallucinations and other psychiatric symptoms. Many forms of chakra work, however, are done safely and effectively by students of other diverse yogic practices.
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