Kundalini is a form of hatha yoga. Its purpose is to increase the powers of self-awareness, attain a higher level of consciousness and to attain a state of bliss. It has fewer poses that other forms of yoga, and focuses on the awakening of the sleeping kundalini energy that resides at the base of the spine.
Kundalini
Kundalini Shakti is the serpent goddess in Hindu mythology. She lies sleeping, coiled at the base of the spine around the first, or root, chakra. Kundalini represents the unfolding of the divine Shakti energy; the life-giving potential. The purpose of kundalini yoga exercises is to awaken the kundalini energy, so that it begins to rise up through the seven chakras. As this energy moves up through the body, kundalini removes blocked energies and restores balance, according to the Reiki for Holistic Health website. Kundalini awakening can be a very intense experience that may be triggered by yoga exercise and meditation.
Breathing
One of the paths to kundalini is through pranayama, or long, deep breathing techniques. Many people do not know how to breathe correctly. Proper breathing is important for all forms of yoga. Pranayama involves sitting in the simple pose or lotus position. First you inhale deeply, allowing the air to fill the diaphragm before it moves into the chest cavity. Arch the spine forward, to enable the upper lungs to be filled. Once you completely fill the lungs, hold your breath for three seconds and then straighten your back and slowly release the air from your lungs. Once you have mastered the motion of this breathing technique, focus on the muscles and circulation of air as you breathe.
Poses
There are several asanas, or poses, that you can use to awaken the kundalini. One of them is the simple pose. For this you will need to sit on the floor with your knees pointing outward and the soles of your feet touching. The back should be kept straight and the palms may rest on the knees. Another asana is the hero pose. For this pose, you sit on the floor with your knees bent and your toes pointing behind you. Sit with your buttocks on the floor between your thighs. Keep your back straight and rest your palms on your knees. These poses help to channel the kundalini energy up through the spine.
Gestures
Mudras, or hand gestures, help to guide kundalini energy through the chakras to the brain. A common mudra is known as guyan mudra. In this gesture, the tip of the index finger -- representing Jupiter -- meets the tip of the thumb -- representing the ego. This gesture promotes calmness and receptivity. For the shuni mudra gesture, the tip of the middle finger -- representing Saturn, meets the tips of the thumb to promote patience.
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