A style of Hatha Yoga created by the Yogi Brajan, Kundalani yoga is practiced to awaken sleeping spiritual energy at the base of the spine. Pranayama or focused breathing is used in combination with specific yoga postures to achieve this goal. Meditation and chanting of ancient Sanskrit sounds or mantras are used to facilitate energy flow throughout the body.
Kundalani Energy
Also referred to as "serpent power," Kundalani energy refers to the spiritual energy which is represented as a snake that is coiled at the base of the root chakra. When this energy becomes awakened through yoga postures or meditation, its transformative power is carried up the Sushumna nadi, the central channel of the astral body and "pierces" the other six chakras.
Kundalani Meditation
The position of the body is an essential component in the meditation aspect of Kundalani yoga. An erect spine assures an uninterrupted flow of prana energy from the base of the spine to the crown chakra. As the mind is brought into silence at the beginning of the yoga practice through meditation, chakras become activated and more open to receiving this flow of Kundalani energy. Chanting of a Sanskrit mantra such as "sat nam" facilitates clarity and focus into the practice.
Sutras
Each sutra, or yoga posture, in Kundalani yoga is taken from traditional Hatha yoga, although a modified order or form of the posture may be adapted. One posture which is used in Kundalani yoga to awaken this dormant energy is called Ardha-Matsyendrasana, or the half spinal twist. Lotus pose, cat pose and cobra pose are all likely to be used in a session of Kundalani yoga.
Breathing
Attention and focus on proper breathing is essential in all forms of yoga and Kundalani yoga is no exception. A powerful inhale and exhale is combined with each movement. When a pose is being held, a deep and extended breath is used. At instructed times the "breath of fire" or pranayama is practiced.
Benefits
According to Shri Dyanyogi Madhusudandasji, when Kundalani becomes awakened through Kundalani yoga, overall health improves as it has a purifying effect on the body and mind. Sexual energy may also be increased as a result. Madhusudandasji explains that at more advanced levels of Kundalani progression, the practitioner may develop a profound understanding of nature and experience lasting inner joy and bliss.
Precaution
Kundalani yoga should be practiced under the instruction of an individual who has received extensive training. When Kundalani is released through Kundalani yoga, a person who is not ready to receive this powerful flow of energy may not be prepared for the heightened mental state which may accompany it.
References
- "Simple Path to Yoga;" Eric Chaline; 2002
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