Kundalini

Kundalini is defined in Yogic terms as "a coiled female snake, the latent energy at the base of the spine." When it awakes or uncoils, in the classical model, via spiritual practices or spontaneously, a subtle energy can be felt streaming upward in the body, emanating from the base of the spine and flowing into the head. Physical and spiritual sensations often accompany the surge of inner energy: spontaneous movements of the body, shaking, heat, spasms, visions, sounds like ringing, bells, drums, and many other symptoms (see the Kundalini Information section of this website for more about symptoms and other models of Kundalini awakenings).

The destiny of this mystical force is said to be an evolutionary leap in one's spiritual consciousness; i.e., full enlightenment (it is claimed by some authorities that it will lead to genius and supernatural powers, though this is conjectural); the initial rising is often preceded by white light in meditation, in dreams, or in the waking state. In some Kundalini awakenings this light can be like "the light of a thousand suns"; to see it suddenly and unexpectedly can jolt one's senses into a state of panic as one feels the familiar boundaries of their consciousness begin to melt into the heart-stopping, radiant immensity of the Absolute.

The initial awakening is usually only a starting point that will not flower fully for most individuals in their lifetimes. Except in rare cases, it takes decades, for the body to be rewired to handle the high-powered wattage of a full-blown Kundalini awakening. All of the physical and spiritual manifestations are said to be the result of the Kundalini energy working it's way through stress blocks and fears that are believed to stand in the way of the completion of this transformational process.

This basic description of Kundalini does not begin to probe the complexity of this subject, or the hazards of trying to force an awakening, but it will give you some idea of what Kundalini is. Explore the rest of the Kundalini information and articles on this website for deeper knowledge--you will find many informative articles at the Kundalini Links webpage, and maintenance suggestions for people undergoing challenging risings in the Kundalini Survival Guide.

Bob Boyd