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{{short description|Schools of yoga}}
'''Kundalini yoga''' is a physical and meditative discipline within the tradition of ], associated with the subdivision of ] yoga,<ref>Sovatsky, 1998, p. 14</ref> but more closely associated with ], ], ] and the ] of ].<ref>Guru Fatha Singh Khalsa, The Essential Gursikh Yogi: The Yoga and Yogis in the Past, Present and Future of Sikh Dharma, Toronto, Monkey Minds Press, 2008, 188-89, 210-12, 222-39.</ref> It describes a set of yoga exercises and meditations which are also sometimes referred to as ] or simply ]. Kundalini yoga is sometimes called "the yoga of awareness" because it awakens the "kundalini" which is the unlimited potential that already exists within every human being<ref>Sat Bachan Kaur Karla Becker, 2004.</ref>
{{About|Kundalini yoga as exercise (as taught in yoga schools of the 20th century)|other uses|Kundalini (disambiguation)}}
{{EngvarB|date=July 2015}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2015}}
]
{{Hinduism}}


'''Kundalini yoga''' ({{IAST|kuṇḍalinī-yoga}}) derives from '']'', defined in ] as energy that lies within the body, frequently at the navel or the base of the spine. In normative tantric systems, kundalini is considered to be dormant until it is activated (as by the practice of ]) and channeled upward through the central channel in a process of spiritual perfection. Other schools, such as Kashmir ], teach that there are multiple kundalini energies in different parts of the body which are active and do not require awakening. Kundalini is believed by adherents to be power associated with the ], ].<ref name="Sarawati">{{cite book |last1=Saraswati |first1=Swami Satyananda |author-link=Sivananda Saraswati |title=Kundalini Tantra |date=1984 |publisher=Bihar School of Yoga |location=Munger, Bihar, India |isbn=978-8185787152 |pages=34–36|edition=2nd}}</ref><ref name="Anodea">{{cite book |last1=Judith |first1=Anodea |title=Eastern Body, Western Mind: Psychology and the Chakra System as a Path to the Self |date=2004 |publisher=Celestial Arts |location=Berkeley, California |isbn=978-1-58761-225-1 |pages= |edition=Revised |url-access=registration |url=https://archive.org/details/easternbodyweste00judi_0/page/451 }}</ref><ref name="Paulson">{{cite book|last1=Paulson|first1=Genevieve Lewis|title=Kundalini and the Chakras: A Practical Manual--evolution in this Lifetime|url=https://archive.org/details/kundalinichakras00paul_984|url-access=limited|date=1998|publisher=Llewellyn Publications|location=St. Paul, Minnesota |isbn=978-0-87542-592-4|pages=–10, 194|edition=1st}}</ref><ref name="ps">{{cite book |author=Williams, W. F. |title=Encyclopedia of Pseudoscience: From Alien Abductions to Zone Therapy |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=vH1EAgAAQBAJ&pg=PT211 |year=2000 |publisher=Routledge |isbn=978-1-135-95522-9 |page=211 |chapter=Kundalini}}</ref> Kundalini yoga as a school of yoga is influenced by ] and ] schools of ].<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.dlshq.org/download/kundalini.htm|title= Kundalini Yoga|website= www.dlshq.org}}</ref> It derives its name through a focus on awakening kundalini energy through regular practice of ], tantra, ], yoga, laya, haṭha, ], or even spontaneously (]).<ref name="YJ Spotlight">{{cite web|title= Spotlight on Kundalini Yoga|url= http://www.yogajournal.com/basics/1336|publisher= Yoga Journal|access-date= 8 October 2013}}</ref><ref name="Swami Sivananda Radha 2004, pp 13-15">Swami Sivananda Radha, 2004, pp. 13, 15</ref>
According to ] tradition Kundalini yoga is a pure spiritual science that leads to enlightenment and God-realization under the guidance of a spiritual master. The awakening of kundalini means awakening of inner knowledge, awareness and evolved consciousness.<ref name="Ibera Verlag pages 47, 48">], ''The hidden power in humans'', Ibera Verlag, pages 47, 48. ISBN 3-85052-197-4</ref><ref>Swami Sivananda Radha, Kundalini Yoga for the West, timeless, 2004, pages 13, 15</ref> Kundalini Yoga has been documented as a system of exercises and meditations and claims to provide extensive benefits for personal growth, health and improving mental and physical well-being, including asthma, diabetes, pain, stress-related diseases, healing and rehabilitating addictive behavior, and treating mental disorders.<ref name="thomas.loc.gov"> US Library of Congress</ref><ref>David Shannahoff-Khalsa, Kundalini Yoga Meditation for Complex Psychiatric Disorders: Techniques Specific for Treating the Psychoses, Personality, and Pervasive Development Disorders, 2010</ref><ref>David Shannahoff-Khalsa, Kundalini Yoga Meditation: Techniques Specific for Psychiatric Disorders, Couples Therapy, and Personal Growth, 2007</ref>


== History ==
In Hindu tradition, Kundalini techniques are only communicated from Master to disciple once the disciple is deemed ready.<ref name="Ibera Verlag pages 47, 48" /> In this tradition some yogic masters believe that in ascetic settings ignorance or refusal to follow instructions of a master can lead to harmful effects.<ref name="Ibera Verlag pages 47, 48" /> However, in a few instances teachers from India encouraged students to update and spread the teachings to the West, thereby putting doubt to this claim.<ref>Swami Sivananda Radha, Kundalini Yoga for the West, timeless, 2004, pages 13, 23</ref>
] in an Indic manuscript showing the energy centres (]s), the main subtle channels (]s), and the coiled serpent energy at the base of the spine (]). The serpent is shown again on the left of the drawing.]]


===Name===
== Underlying philosophy ==


The Sanskrit adjective ''{{IAST|kuṇḍala}}'' means "circular, annular". It occurs as a noun for "a snake" (in the sense "coiled", as in "forming ringlets") in the 12th-century '']'' chronicle (I.2). ''{{IAST|Kuṇḍa}}'', a noun which means "bowl, water-pot", is found as the name of a ] in '']'' 1.4828.
] is a concentrated form of prana or life force, lying dormant in chakras in the body. It is conceptualized as a coiled up serpent (literally, 'kundalini' in Sanskrit is 'That which is coiled.' Sanskrit kund, "to burn"; kunda, "to coil or to spiral"). The serpent is considered to be female, coiled up three and a half times, with its mouth engulfing the base of the Sushumna nadi.{{citation needed}}
The Sanskrit feminine noun ''kuṇḍalī'' means "ring, bracelet, coil (of a rope)", and is the name of a "serpent-like" ] in ] as early as the 11th century, in the '']''.<ref>André Padoux, ''Vāc: The Concept of the Word in Selected Hindu Tantras'', SUNY Press, 1990, 124-136.</ref>


What has become known as "Kundalini yoga" in the 20th century, after a technical term particular to this tradition, is actually a synthesis of Bhakti Yoga (devotion and chanting), Raja Yoga (meditation) and Shakti Yoga (the expression of power and energy)."<ref>{{cite web |title=What Is Kundalini Yoga |date=19 March 2020 |url=https://www.fitsri.com/yoga/kundalini-yoga |access-date=21 December 2021}}</ref>{{better source needed|date=December 2021}} However, it may include ] techniques (such as ], ], and ]), ]'s ] (consisting of self-discipline, self-study, devotion to God, dhyāna, and samādhi), tantric visualization and meditation techniques of ''laya yoga'' (known as ''samsketas'').<ref>]. "Dattātreya's Discourse on Yoga". 24 June 2013. accessed 25 October 2015. https://www.academia.edu/3773137/Translation_of_the_Datt%C4%81treyayoga%C5%9B%C4%81stra_the_earliest_text_to_teach_ha%E1%B9%ADhayoga . "The Yoga of Dissolution (layayoga) happens as a result of the dissolution of the mind by means of esoteric techniques (saṃketas). Ādinātha has taught eighty million esoteric techniques."</ref>
In the classical literature of Kashmir Shaivism kundalini is described in three different manifestations. The first of these is as the universal energy or para-kundalini. The second of these is as the energizing function of the body-mind complex or prana-kundalini. The third of these is as consciousness or shakti-kundalini which simultaneously subsumes and intermediates between these two. Ultimately these three forms are the same but understanding these three different forms will help to understand the different manifestations of kundalini .<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.eecs.berkeley.edu/~keutzer/kundalini/kundalini-yoga.html |title=Kundalini Yogas FAQ |publisher=Eecs.berkeley.edu |date= |accessdate=2010-02-04}}</ref>


Laya may mean either the techniques of yoga or (like ]) its effect of "absorption" of the individual into the cosmic.<ref>{{cite book | last=Woodroffe | first=John |author-link=John Woodroffe | title='The Serpent Power'. Illustrations, Tables, Highlights and Images by Veeraswamy Krishnara | pages=88–89 | access-date=25 October 2015 | url=http://www.bhagavadgitausa.com/Serpent%20Power%20Complete.pdf | quote=YOGA is sometimes understood as meaning the result and not the process which leads to it. According to this meaning of the term, and from the standpoint of natural dualism, Yoga has been described to be the union of the individual spirit with god." and "the ecstatic condition in which the 'equality' that is identity of Jīvātmā and Paramātma is realized. The experience is achieved after '''the absorption (Laya) of Prāṇa and Manas''' and the cessation of all ideation (Saṁkalpa) }}</ref> Laya yoga, from the Sanskrit term ''laya'' (meaning "dissolution", "extinction", or "absorption"), is almost always described in the context of other Yogas such as in the ''Yoga-Tattva-Upanishad'', the '']'', the exact distinctions between traditional yoga schools are often hazy due to a long history of syncretism, hence many of the oldest sources on Kundalini come through manuals of the tantric and haṭha traditions, including the '']'' describes the qualified yogi as practicing the four yogas' to achieve kundalini awakening, while lesser students may resort solely to one technique or another: "Mantra Yoga and Hatha Yoga. Laya Yoga is the third. The fourth is Raja Yoga. It is free from duality."<ref>{{cite book | last=Mallinson | first=James |author-link=James Mallinson (author) | date=2007-01-01 | title=The : A Critical Edition and an English Translation (Kindle Locations 100-101) and (Kindle Locations 799-825) | publisher=YogaVidya.com | edition=Kindle | quote=As Hatha Yoga, originally the preserve of the unorthodox Nathas, grew in popularity in the medieval period, the orthodox Shaivas sought to incorporate it within their soteriology, and thus may be an example of this appropriation." and "He is sure to achieve perfection in three years. He is entitled to practice all Yogas. In this there is no doubt.}}</ref>
The path of Kundalini is said to proceed from the Muladhara Chakra at the lower end of the spinal column up to the Sahasara Chakra at the top of the head. But its awakening is not thought to be a physical occurrence; it consists exclusively of a development in consciousness. According to some sources, awakening of kundalini brings with it pure joy, pure knowledge and pure love.<ref name="Ibera Verlag pages 47, 48" />


===Hatha yoga===
According to one source, the word kundalini literally means "the curl of the lock of hair of the beloved.".<ref>{{dead link|date=February 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://store.goldenbridgeyoga.com/uploads/images/yogibhajan.html |title=Yogi Bhajan |publisher=Store.goldenbridgeyoga.com |date=1969-01-05 |accessdate=2010-02-04}}</ref> It is a ], a poetic way of describing the flow of energy and ] which already is said to exist within each person. The practices are said to enable the person to merge with or "yoke" the universal self. This merging of individual consciousness with the universal consciousness is said to create a "divine union" called "yoga".<ref>{{cite web|author=design@lancasters.co.uk |url=http://www.kundaliniyoga.org.uk/whatis.html |title=What is Kundalini yoga? |publisher=Kundaliniyoga.org.uk |date= |accessdate=2010-02-04}}</ref>
{{further|Hatha Yoga Pradipika|Yoga-Kundalini Upanishad}}


The '']'' is a ] yoga text related to the schools of ] and ] yoga.<ref>] (2008). ''The Encyclopedia of Indian Philosophies: Yoga: India's philosophy of meditation''. Motilal Banarsidass. {{ISBN|978-81-208-3349-4}}, p. 476, 615-617</ref>
== Developmental perspective ==


Other Sanskrit texts treat ''kundalini'' as a technical term in tantric yoga, such as the ''Ṣaṭ-cakra-nirūpana'' and the ''Pādukā-pañcaka''. These were translated in 1919 by ] as ''The Serpent Power: The Secrets of Tantric and Shaktic Yoga''. He identifies the process of involution and its techniques in these texts as a particular form of Tantrik ''Laya Yoga''.<ref>Woodroffe, John. "The Serpent Power". Illustrations, Tables, Highlights and Images by Veeraswamy Krishnara. p. 11. Accessed 25 October 2015. http://www.bhagavadgitausa.com/Serpent%20Power%20Complete.pdf "when dealing with the practice of Yoga, the rule is that things dissolve into that from which they originate, and the Yoga process here described is such dissolution (Laya)"</ref>
Sovatsky,<ref>Sovatsky, 1998: p. 6, 82, 142</ref> a scholar of Yoga associated with ], adapts a developmental and evolutionary perspective in his interpretation of Kundalini Yoga. That is, he interprets Kundalini Yoga as a catalyst for psycho-spiritual growth and bodily maturation. According to this interpretation of yoga, ''the body bows itself into greater maturation , none of which should be considered mere stretching exercises''<ref>Sovatsky, 1998: p. 142</ref>.


] | publisher=Penguin Books | year=2017 | isbn=978-0-241-25304-5 | oclc=928480104 |pages=180–181}}</ref>]]
== Observations ==


The ''Yoga-Kundalini Upanishad'' consists of three short chapters; it begins by stating that Chitta (consciousness) is controlled by Prana, and it is controlled by moderate food, postures and ''Shakti-Chala'' (I.1-2). Verses I.3-6 explain the concepts of moderate food and concept, and verse I.7 introduces ''Kundalini'' as the name of the ''Shakti'' under discussion:
All intensive spiritual practices associated with Asian traditions require attentive practice. Psychiatric literature<ref name="Turner et al.,pg. 440">Turner et al.,pg. 440</ref> notes that "''Since the influx of eastern spiritual practices and the rising popularity of meditation starting in 1960s, many people have experienced a variety of psychological difficulties, either while engaged in intensive spiritual practice or spontaneously''". Among the psychological difficulties associated with intensive spiritual practice we find "kundalini awakening", "a complex physio-psychospiritual transformative process described in the yogic tradition".<ref name="Turner et al.,pg. 440" /> Also, writers in the fields of ]<ref>Scotton, 1996</ref> and ]<ref>Kason, 2000</ref><ref>Greyson, 2000</ref> describe a complex pattern of sensory, motor, mental and affective symptoms associated within the concept of kundalini. Often it will be found that negative experiences occur only when acting without appropriate guidance or ignoring advice.<ref>], The hidden power in humans, Ibera Verlag, pages 47, 48, 49.</ref>
:I.7. The Sakti (mentioned above) is only Kundalini. A wise man should take it up from its place (Viz., the navel, upwards) to the middle of the eyebrows. This is called Sakti-Chala.
:I.8. In practising it, two things are necessary, Sarasvati-Chalana and the restraint of Prana (breath). Then through practice, Kundalini (which is spiral) becomes straightened.<ref>trans. K. Narayanasvami Aiyar , based on a translation first published in 1891 in ''The Theosophist'', Volume 12.</ref>


==Modern forms==
== Medical research ==


=== Yogi Bhajan ===
Recently there has been a growing interest within the medical community to study the physiological, as well as the psychological, effects of meditation, and some of these studies have applied the discipline of kundalini yoga to their clinical settings.<ref>Cromie, 2002</ref><ref>Lazar, et al., 2000</ref>
{{main|Yogi Bhajan}}
* Arambula et al.<ref>Arambula et al. ,2001</ref> has studied the physiological correlates of a highly practiced kundalini ].
* Peng et al.<ref>Peng et al., 1999</ref> has studied the heart-rate oscillations, associated with slow breathing during the practice of kundalini yoga meditation.
* Venkatesh et al.<ref>Venkatesh et al., 1997</ref> has studied twelve kundalini (]) meditators, using the ] of Consciousness Inventory. They found that the practice of meditation "appears to produce structural as well as intensity changes in phenomenological experiences of consciousness".
* Narayan et al.<ref>Narayan et al., 1990</ref> studied the degree of relaxation of muscle under the effects of kundalini yoga with the help of an ] integrator.


In 1968, Harbhajan Singh Puri, also known as ], introduced his own brand of kundalini yoga into the United States, "Kundalini Yoga as taught by Yogi Bhajan". Yogi Bhajan founded the "]" (3HO) as a teaching organization. Former Kundalini teacher and scholar Philip Deslippe claims that Yogi Bhajan took yogic postures and techniques, attached them to Tantric theories and Sikh mantras, synthesizing a new form of 'Kundalini' yoga. "When placed alongside the teachings of Swami ] and Maharaj Virsa Singh, it becomes strikingly apparent that at least in its earliest years, Yogi Bhajan's Kundalini yoga was not a distinct practice, but essentially a combination of yogic mechanics learned from the former and the Sikh-derived mantras (''Ik Ongkaar, Sat Naam, Sri Waheguru'') and chanting from the latter", Deslippe writes.<ref>{{cite journal |url=https://escholarship.org/uc/item/6r63q6qn |title=From Maharaj to Mahan Tantric: The Construction of Yogi Bhajan's Kundalini Yoga |first=Philip Roland |last=Deslippe |journal=Sikh Formations |date=14 March 2013 |volume=8 |issue= 3|via=escholarship.org}}</ref>
== Notes ==


==Principles==
{{reflist|colwidth=30em}}

''Kundalini'' is the term for "a ] located at the base of the spine", conceptualized as a coiled-up serpent. The practice of Kundalini yoga is supposed to arouse the sleeping Kundalini Shakti from its coiled base through the 6 ], and penetrate the 7th chakra, or crown.
This energy is said to travel along the ida (left), pingala (right) and central, or sushumna ] - the main channels of pranic energy in the body.<ref>Swami Sivananda (4th ed. 2007) page 12</ref>

Kundalini energy is technically explained as being sparked during yogic breathing when ] and ] blends at the 3rd chakra (solar plexus) at which point it initially drops down to the 1st and 2nd chakras before traveling up to the spine to the higher centers of the brain to activate the ''golden cord'' - the connection between the ] and ] glands - and penetrate the 7 chakras.<ref name="bhajan176">{{cite book |author=Yogi Bhajan |title=The Aquarian Teacher, KRI International Teacher Training in Kundalini Yoga as taught by Yogi Bhajan |publisher=Kundalini Research Institute |edition=4th |year=2007 |pages=176–179}}</ref>
Borrowing and integrating many different approaches, Kundalini Yoga can be understood as a tri-fold approach of ] for devotion, Shakti yoga for power, and ] for mental power and control. Its purpose through the daily practice of ] and meditation in ] are described as a practical technology of human consciousness for humans to achieve their total creative potential. With the practice of Kundalini Yoga one is thought able to liberate oneself from one's Karma and to realize one's Dharma (Life Purpose).<ref>{{cite book |author=Yogi Bhajan |title=The Aquarian Teacher, KRI International Teacher Training in Kundalini Yoga as taught by Yogi Bhajan |publisher=Kundalini Research Institute |edition=4th |year=2007 |page=20}}</ref> It is recommended to become free of desire or adopt ] before trying to arouse Kundalini.<ref name=":0">{{Cite book |last=Sivananda |first=Sri Swami |title=Yoga Kundalini |publisher=The Divine Life Society |year=1994 |isbn=81-7052-052-5 |edition=10th |location=Uttar Pradesh, India |pages=35–36}}</ref> Additionally, having a guru is beneficial in Kundalini Yoga, because a ] can suggest the best method to awaken the Kundalini.<ref name=":0" />

== Practice ==

The practice of kriyas and meditations in Kundalini Yoga are designed to raise complete body awareness to prepare the body, ], and mind to handle the energy of Kundalini rising. The majority of the physical postures focus on navel activity, activity of the spine, and selective pressurization of body points and meridians. Breath work and the application of bandhas (3 yogic locks) aid to release, direct, and control the flow of Kundalini energy from the lower centers to the higher energetic centers.<ref>Yogi Bhajan, The Aquarian Teacher, KRI International Teacher Training in Kundalini Yoga as taught by Yogi Bhajan, Kundalini Research Institute, 4th Edition, 2007, page 177</ref>

Along with the many kriyas, meditations and practices of Kundalini Yoga, a simple breathing technique of alternate nostril breathing (left nostril, right nostril), are taught as a method to cleanse the ''nadis'', or subtle channels and pathways, to help awaken Kundalini energy.<ref>Swami Sivananda (4th ed. 2007) page 23</ref>

Sovatsky (1998) adapts a developmental and evolutionary perspective in his interpretation of Kundalini Yoga. That is, he interprets Kundalini Yoga as a catalyst for psycho-spiritual growth and bodily maturation. According to this interpretation of yoga, "the body bows itself into greater maturation , none of which should be considered mere stretching exercises".<ref>Sovatsky, Stuart (1998) ''Words from the Soul: Time, East/West Spirituality, and Psychotherapeutic Narrative'', Suny Series in Transpersonal and Humanistic Psychology, New York: State University of New York Press, p. 142</ref>

== Controversy ==

There have been accusations that modern Kundalini Yoga practice and related groups including ] and Ra Ma are cult-like<ref>{{Cite magazine |date=2021-12-01 |title=The Second Coming of Guru Jagat |url=https://www.vanityfair.com/style/2021/11/the-second-coming-of-guru-jagat |access-date=2023-05-20 |magazine=Vanity Fair |language=en-US}}</ref> in practices, financial abuse,<ref name="Orecchio-Egresitz">{{Cite web |last=Orecchio-Egresitz |first=Haven |title=Before the sudden death of its leader, Ra Ma Yoga Institute was accused by some former members of being a cult. What happens now? |url=https://www.insider.com/followers-said-ra-ma-yoga-was-cult-what-happens-now-2021-10 |access-date=2023-05-20 |website=Insider |language=en-US}}</ref> and sexual abuse.{{cn|date=November 2024}} Practices may include the use of crystals, wearing white, and restricted diets and are tied to medicine denial and encouraging practitioners to solve medical problems with costly retreats. "Norton said students were told that any problem they had  — addiction, mental-health issues, procrastination — could be solved by investing more time and money into Ra Ma events and programming. Jagat's practitioners were told not to wear black because it shrinks their aura and not to wear rings on their middle fingers because it interferes with their connection to Saturn. A former student included footage of Jagat in a TikTok video in which Jagat appears to claim that COVID-19 lockdowns were linked to an 'alien war'."<ref name="Orecchio-Egresitz"/>

==See also==
* ]
* ]


== References == == References ==
{{Reflist|30em}}


==Further reading==
* Arambula P, Peper E, Kawakami M, Gibney KH. (2001) ''The Physiological Correlates of Kundalini Yoga Meditation: A Study of a Yoga Master'', Appl Psychophysiol Biofeedback, Jun 2001; 26(2): 147 - 53, ] Abstract PMID 11480165.
{{refbegin|30em}}
* Cromie, William J. (2002) ''Research: Meditation Changes Temperatures: Mind Controls Body in Extreme Experiments''. Harvard University Gazette, April 18, 2002
* {{cite journal | last1 = Arambula | first1 = P | last2 = Peper | first2 = E | last3 = Kawakami | first3 = M | last4 = Gibney | first4 = KH | year = 2001 | title = The Physiological Correlates of Kundalini Yoga Meditation: A Study of a Yoga Master | journal = Appl Psychophysiol Biofeedback | volume = 26 | issue = 2| pages = 147–53 | doi = 10.1023/a:1011343307783 | pmid = 11480165 | s2cid = 18448634 }}
* Greyson, Bruce (2000) ''Some Neuropsychological Correlates Of The Physio-Kundalini Syndrome''. The Journal of Transpersonal Psychology, Vol.32, No. 2
* Cromie, William J. (2002) ''Research: Meditation Changes Temperatures: Mind Controls Body in Extreme Experiments''. Harvard University Gazette, 18 April 2002.
* Laue, Thorsten: ''Kundalini Yoga, Yogi Tee und das Wassermannzeitalter. Bibliografische Einblicke in die Healthy, Happy, Holy Organization (3HO) des Yogi Bhajan.'' Tübingen: 2008. Online abrufbar unter: http://tobias-lib.ub.uni-tuebingen.de/volltexte/2008/3596/
* Eastman, David T. , ''Yoga Journal'', September 1985, pp.&nbsp;7–43, California Yoga Teachers Association.
* Laue, Thorsten: ''Kundalini Yoga, Yogi Tee und das Wassermannzeitalter. Religionswissenschaftliche Einblicke in die Healthy, Happy, Holy Organization (3HO) des Yogi Bhajan'', Münster: LIT, 2007, ISBN 3825801403
* Laue, Thorsten: ''Tantra im Westen. Eine religionswissenschaftliche Studie über „Weißes Tantra Yoga“, „Kundalini Yoga“ und „Sikh Dharma“ in Yogi Bhajans „Healthy, Happy, Holy Organization“ (3HO) unter besonderer Berücksichtigung der „3H Organisation Deutschland e. V.“'', Münster: LIT, 2012, zugl.: Tübingen, Univ., Diss., 2011, {{ISBN|978-3-643-11447-1}}
* Kason, Yvonne (2000) ''Farther Shores: Exploring How Near-Death, Kundalini and Mystical Experiences Can Transform Ordinary Lives''. Toronto: Harper Collins Publishers, Revised edition, ISBN 0-00-638624-5
* Laue, Thorsten: ''Kundalini Yoga, Yogi Tee und das Wassermannzeitalter. Bibliografische Einblicke in die Healthy, Happy, Holy Organization (3HO) des Yogi Bhajan.'' Tübingen: 2008. Online at {{cite web|url=http://tobias-lib.ub.uni-tuebingen.de/volltexte/2008/3596/ |title=TOBIAS-lib - Zugang zum Dokument - Kundalini Yoga, Yogi Tee und das Wassermannzeitalter: Bibliografische Einblicke in die Healthy, Happy, Holy Organization (3HO) des Yogi Bhajan - Laue, Thorsten |publisher=Tobias-lib.ub.uni-tuebingen.de |date=2008-10-31 |access-date=2011-01-02 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090610044331/http://tobias-lib.ub.uni-tuebingen.de/volltexte/2008/3596/ |archive-date=10 June 2009 }} .
* Lazar, Sara W.; Bush, George; Gollub, Randy L.; Fricchione, Gregory L.; Khalsa, Gurucharan; Benson, Herbert (2000) ''Functional Brain Mapping of the Relaxation Response and Meditation'', NeuroReport, Vol. 11(7) May 15, 2000, p 1581 - 1585, ] Abstract PMID 10841380
* Laue, Thorsten: ''Kundalini Yoga, Yogi Tee und das Wassermannzeitalter. Religionswissenschaftliche Einblicke in die Healthy, Happy, Holy Organization (3HO) des Yogi Bhajan'', Münster: LIT, 2007, {{ISBN|978-3-8258-0140-3}} .
* Narayan R, Kamat A, Khanolkar M, Kamat S, Desai SR, Dhume RA. (1990) ''Quantitative Evaluation of Muscle Relaxation Induced by Kundalini Yoga with the Help of EMG Integrator''. Indian J Physiol Pharmacol. Oct 1990; 34(4): 279 - 81, ] Abstract PMID 2100290.
* {{cite journal | pmid = 2100290 | volume=34 | title=Quantitative evaluation of muscle relaxation induced by Kundalini yoga with the help of EMG integrator | date=October 1990 | journal=Indian J. Physiol. Pharmacol. | pages=279–81 | last1 = Narayan | first1 = R | last2 = Kamat | first2 = A | last3 = Khanolkar | first3 = M | last4 = Kamat | first4 = S | last5 = Desai | first5 = SR | last6 = Dhume | first6 = RA| issue=4 }}
* Peng CK, Mietus JE, Liu Y, Khalsa G, Douglas PS, Benson H, Goldberger AL. (1999) ''Exaggerated Heart Rate Oscillations During Two Meditation Techniques''. Int J Cardiol, Jul 31, 1999; 70(2): 101 - 7, ] Abstract PMID 10454297.
* {{cite journal | pmid = 10454297 | volume=70 | title=Exaggerated heart rate oscillations during two meditation techniques | date=July 1999 | journal=Int. J. Cardiol. | pages=101–7 | last1 = Peng | first1 = CK | last2 = Mietus | first2 = JE | last3 = Liu | first3 = Y | issue=2 | display-authors = etal | doi = 10.1016/s0167-5273(99)00066-2}}
* Scotton, Bruce (1996) ''The phenomenology and treatment of kundalini'', in Chinen, Scotton and Battista (Editors) (1996) Textbook of transpersonal psychiatry and psychology. (pp.&nbsp;261–270). New York: Basic Books, Inc
* {{cite book |url=http://www.dlshq.org/download/kundalini.htm |title=Kundalini Yoga |first=Swami |last=Shivananda |edition=WWW |year=1999 |orig-year=1935 |publisher=The Divine Life Trust Society |isbn=81-7052-052-5}}
* Sovatsky, Stuart (1998) ''Words from the Soul: Time, East/West Spirituality, and Psychotherapeutic Narrative'', Suny Series in Transpersonal and Humanistic Psychology, New York: State University of New York Press
* ], ''Kundalini Yoga for the West'' (1979; 2nd ed. 1996)
* Turner, Robert P.; Lukoff, David; Barnhouse, Ruth Tiffany & Lu, Francis G. (1995) Religious or Spiritual Problem. A Culturally Sensitive Diagnostic Category in the DSM-IV. Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease,Vol.183, No. 7 435-444
* ''The Aquarian Teacher, KRI International Teacher Training in Kundalini Yoga as taught by Yogi Bhajan'', Kundalini Research Institute, 4th Edition, 2007.
* Venkatesh S, Raju TR, Shivani Y, Tompkins G, Meti BL. (1997) ''A Study of Structure of Phenomenology of Consciousness in Meditative and Non-Meditative States''. Indian J Physiol Pharmacol, Apr 1997; 41(2): 149 - 53. ] Abstract PMID 9142560.
* {{cite journal | last1 = Turner | first1 = Robert P. | last2 = Lukoff | first2 = David | last3 = Barnhouse | first3 = Ruth Tiffany | last4 = Lu | first4 = Francis G. | year = 1995 | title = Religious or Spiritual Problem. A Culturally Sensitive Diagnostic Category in the DSM-IV | journal = Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease | volume = 183 | issue = 7| pages = 435–444 | doi = 10.1097/00005053-199507000-00003 | pmid = 7623015 }}
{{refend}}


== External links == == External links ==
* {{cite web |date=May 1996 |first=Kurt |last=Keutzer |url=http://www.eecs.berkeley.edu/~keutzer/kundalini/kundalini-yoga.html |title=Kundalini Yogas FAQ |access-date=2024-07-02}}
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Latest revision as of 20:09, 21 November 2024

Schools of yoga This article is about Kundalini yoga as exercise (as taught in yoga schools of the 20th century). For other uses, see Kundalini (disambiguation).

Indian Tantric illustration of the subtle body channels which kundalini traverses
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Kundalini yoga (kuṇḍalinī-yoga) derives from kundalini, defined in tantra as energy that lies within the body, frequently at the navel or the base of the spine. In normative tantric systems, kundalini is considered to be dormant until it is activated (as by the practice of yoga) and channeled upward through the central channel in a process of spiritual perfection. Other schools, such as Kashmir Shaivism, teach that there are multiple kundalini energies in different parts of the body which are active and do not require awakening. Kundalini is believed by adherents to be power associated with the divine feminine, Shakti. Kundalini yoga as a school of yoga is influenced by Shaktism and Tantra schools of Hinduism. It derives its name through a focus on awakening kundalini energy through regular practice of mantra, tantra, yantra, yoga, laya, haṭha, meditation, or even spontaneously (sahaja).

History

Drawing of the subtle body in an Indic manuscript showing the energy centres (chakras), the main subtle channels (nadis), and the coiled serpent energy at the base of the spine (kundalini). The serpent is shown again on the left of the drawing.

Name

The Sanskrit adjective kuṇḍala means "circular, annular". It occurs as a noun for "a snake" (in the sense "coiled", as in "forming ringlets") in the 12th-century Rajatarangini chronicle (I.2). Kuṇḍa, a noun which means "bowl, water-pot", is found as the name of a Naga in Mahabharata 1.4828. The Sanskrit feminine noun kuṇḍalī means "ring, bracelet, coil (of a rope)", and is the name of a "serpent-like" Shakti in Tantrism as early as the 11th century, in the Śaradatilaka.

What has become known as "Kundalini yoga" in the 20th century, after a technical term particular to this tradition, is actually a synthesis of Bhakti Yoga (devotion and chanting), Raja Yoga (meditation) and Shakti Yoga (the expression of power and energy)." However, it may include haṭha yoga techniques (such as bandha, pranayama, and asana), Patañjali's kriya yoga (consisting of self-discipline, self-study, devotion to God, dhyāna, and samādhi), tantric visualization and meditation techniques of laya yoga (known as samsketas).

Laya may mean either the techniques of yoga or (like Rāja yoga) its effect of "absorption" of the individual into the cosmic. Laya yoga, from the Sanskrit term laya (meaning "dissolution", "extinction", or "absorption"), is almost always described in the context of other Yogas such as in the Yoga-Tattva-Upanishad, the Varaha Upanishad, the exact distinctions between traditional yoga schools are often hazy due to a long history of syncretism, hence many of the oldest sources on Kundalini come through manuals of the tantric and haṭha traditions, including the Hatha Yoga Pradipika describes the qualified yogi as practicing the four yogas' to achieve kundalini awakening, while lesser students may resort solely to one technique or another: "Mantra Yoga and Hatha Yoga. Laya Yoga is the third. The fourth is Raja Yoga. It is free from duality."

Hatha yoga

Further information: Hatha Yoga Pradipika and Yoga-Kundalini Upanishad

The Yoga-Kundalini Upanishad is a syncretistic yoga text related to the schools of Hatha and Mantra yoga.

Other Sanskrit texts treat kundalini as a technical term in tantric yoga, such as the Ṣaṭ-cakra-nirūpana and the Pādukā-pañcaka. These were translated in 1919 by John Woodroffe as The Serpent Power: The Secrets of Tantric and Shaktic Yoga. He identifies the process of involution and its techniques in these texts as a particular form of Tantrik Laya Yoga.

Late Kundalini Model of Hatha Yoga

The Yoga-Kundalini Upanishad consists of three short chapters; it begins by stating that Chitta (consciousness) is controlled by Prana, and it is controlled by moderate food, postures and Shakti-Chala (I.1-2). Verses I.3-6 explain the concepts of moderate food and concept, and verse I.7 introduces Kundalini as the name of the Shakti under discussion:

I.7. The Sakti (mentioned above) is only Kundalini. A wise man should take it up from its place (Viz., the navel, upwards) to the middle of the eyebrows. This is called Sakti-Chala.
I.8. In practising it, two things are necessary, Sarasvati-Chalana and the restraint of Prana (breath). Then through practice, Kundalini (which is spiral) becomes straightened.

Modern forms

Yogi Bhajan

Main article: Yogi Bhajan

In 1968, Harbhajan Singh Puri, also known as Yogi Bhajan, introduced his own brand of kundalini yoga into the United States, "Kundalini Yoga as taught by Yogi Bhajan". Yogi Bhajan founded the "Healthy, Happy, Holy Organization" (3HO) as a teaching organization. Former Kundalini teacher and scholar Philip Deslippe claims that Yogi Bhajan took yogic postures and techniques, attached them to Tantric theories and Sikh mantras, synthesizing a new form of 'Kundalini' yoga. "When placed alongside the teachings of Swami Dhirendra Brahmachari and Maharaj Virsa Singh, it becomes strikingly apparent that at least in its earliest years, Yogi Bhajan's Kundalini yoga was not a distinct practice, but essentially a combination of yogic mechanics learned from the former and the Sikh-derived mantras (Ik Ongkaar, Sat Naam, Sri Waheguru) and chanting from the latter", Deslippe writes.

Principles

Kundalini is the term for "a spiritual energy or life force located at the base of the spine", conceptualized as a coiled-up serpent. The practice of Kundalini yoga is supposed to arouse the sleeping Kundalini Shakti from its coiled base through the 6 chakras, and penetrate the 7th chakra, or crown. This energy is said to travel along the ida (left), pingala (right) and central, or sushumna nadi - the main channels of pranic energy in the body.

Kundalini energy is technically explained as being sparked during yogic breathing when prana and apana blends at the 3rd chakra (solar plexus) at which point it initially drops down to the 1st and 2nd chakras before traveling up to the spine to the higher centers of the brain to activate the golden cord - the connection between the pituitary and pineal glands - and penetrate the 7 chakras.

Borrowing and integrating many different approaches, Kundalini Yoga can be understood as a tri-fold approach of Bhakti yoga for devotion, Shakti yoga for power, and Raja yoga for mental power and control. Its purpose through the daily practice of kriyas and meditation in sadhana are described as a practical technology of human consciousness for humans to achieve their total creative potential. With the practice of Kundalini Yoga one is thought able to liberate oneself from one's Karma and to realize one's Dharma (Life Purpose). It is recommended to become free of desire or adopt vairagya before trying to arouse Kundalini. Additionally, having a guru is beneficial in Kundalini Yoga, because a guru can suggest the best method to awaken the Kundalini.

Practice

The practice of kriyas and meditations in Kundalini Yoga are designed to raise complete body awareness to prepare the body, nervous system, and mind to handle the energy of Kundalini rising. The majority of the physical postures focus on navel activity, activity of the spine, and selective pressurization of body points and meridians. Breath work and the application of bandhas (3 yogic locks) aid to release, direct, and control the flow of Kundalini energy from the lower centers to the higher energetic centers.

Along with the many kriyas, meditations and practices of Kundalini Yoga, a simple breathing technique of alternate nostril breathing (left nostril, right nostril), are taught as a method to cleanse the nadis, or subtle channels and pathways, to help awaken Kundalini energy.

Sovatsky (1998) adapts a developmental and evolutionary perspective in his interpretation of Kundalini Yoga. That is, he interprets Kundalini Yoga as a catalyst for psycho-spiritual growth and bodily maturation. According to this interpretation of yoga, "the body bows itself into greater maturation , none of which should be considered mere stretching exercises".

Controversy

There have been accusations that modern Kundalini Yoga practice and related groups including 3HO and Ra Ma are cult-like in practices, financial abuse, and sexual abuse. Practices may include the use of crystals, wearing white, and restricted diets and are tied to medicine denial and encouraging practitioners to solve medical problems with costly retreats. "Norton said students were told that any problem they had  — addiction, mental-health issues, procrastination — could be solved by investing more time and money into Ra Ma events and programming. Jagat's practitioners were told not to wear black because it shrinks their aura and not to wear rings on their middle fingers because it interferes with their connection to Saturn. A former student included footage of Jagat in a TikTok video in which Jagat appears to claim that COVID-19 lockdowns were linked to an 'alien war'."

See also

References

  1. Saraswati, Swami Satyananda (1984). Kundalini Tantra (2nd ed.). Munger, Bihar, India: Bihar School of Yoga. pp. 34–36. ISBN 978-8185787152.
  2. Judith, Anodea (2004). Eastern Body, Western Mind: Psychology and the Chakra System as a Path to the Self (Revised ed.). Berkeley, California: Celestial Arts. pp. 451–454. ISBN 978-1-58761-225-1.
  3. Paulson, Genevieve Lewis (1998). Kundalini and the Chakras: A Practical Manual--evolution in this Lifetime (1st ed.). St. Paul, Minnesota: Llewellyn Publications. pp. 7–10, 194. ISBN 978-0-87542-592-4.
  4. Williams, W. F. (2000). "Kundalini". Encyclopedia of Pseudoscience: From Alien Abductions to Zone Therapy. Routledge. p. 211. ISBN 978-1-135-95522-9.
  5. "Kundalini Yoga". www.dlshq.org.
  6. "Spotlight on Kundalini Yoga". Yoga Journal. Retrieved 8 October 2013.
  7. Swami Sivananda Radha, 2004, pp. 13, 15
  8. André Padoux, Vāc: The Concept of the Word in Selected Hindu Tantras, SUNY Press, 1990, 124-136.
  9. "What Is Kundalini Yoga". 19 March 2020. Retrieved 21 December 2021.
  10. Mallinson, James. "Dattātreya's Discourse on Yoga". 24 June 2013. accessed 25 October 2015. https://www.academia.edu/3773137/Translation_of_the_Datt%C4%81treyayoga%C5%9B%C4%81stra_the_earliest_text_to_teach_ha%E1%B9%ADhayoga . "The Yoga of Dissolution (layayoga) happens as a result of the dissolution of the mind by means of esoteric techniques (saṃketas). Ādinātha has taught eighty million esoteric techniques."
  11. Woodroffe, John. 'The Serpent Power'. Illustrations, Tables, Highlights and Images by Veeraswamy Krishnara (PDF). pp. 88–89. Retrieved 25 October 2015. YOGA is sometimes understood as meaning the result and not the process which leads to it. According to this meaning of the term, and from the standpoint of natural dualism, Yoga has been described to be the union of the individual spirit with god." and "the ecstatic condition in which the 'equality' that is identity of Jīvātmā and Paramātma is realized. The experience is achieved after the absorption (Laya) of Prāṇa and Manas and the cessation of all ideation (Saṁkalpa)
  12. Mallinson, James (1 January 2007). The : A Critical Edition and an English Translation (Kindle Locations 100-101) and (Kindle Locations 799-825) (Kindle ed.). YogaVidya.com. As Hatha Yoga, originally the preserve of the unorthodox Nathas, grew in popularity in the medieval period, the orthodox Shaivas sought to incorporate it within their soteriology, and thus may be an example of this appropriation." and "He is sure to achieve perfection in three years. He is entitled to practice all Yogas. In this there is no doubt.
  13. Larson, Gerald James (2008). The Encyclopedia of Indian Philosophies: Yoga: India's philosophy of meditation. Motilal Banarsidass. ISBN 978-81-208-3349-4, p. 476, 615-617
  14. Woodroffe, John. "The Serpent Power". Illustrations, Tables, Highlights and Images by Veeraswamy Krishnara. p. 11. Accessed 25 October 2015. http://www.bhagavadgitausa.com/Serpent%20Power%20Complete.pdf "when dealing with the practice of Yoga, the rule is that things dissolve into that from which they originate, and the Yoga process here described is such dissolution (Laya)"
  15. Mallinson, James; Singleton, Mark (2017). Roots of Yoga. Penguin Books. pp. 180–181. ISBN 978-0-241-25304-5. OCLC 928480104.
  16. trans. K. Narayanasvami Aiyar Astrojyoti.com, based on a translation first published in 1891 in The Theosophist, Volume 12.
  17. Deslippe, Philip Roland (14 March 2013). "From Maharaj to Mahan Tantric: The Construction of Yogi Bhajan's Kundalini Yoga". Sikh Formations. 8 (3) – via escholarship.org.
  18. Swami Sivananda (4th ed. 2007) page 12
  19. Yogi Bhajan (2007). The Aquarian Teacher, KRI International Teacher Training in Kundalini Yoga as taught by Yogi Bhajan (4th ed.). Kundalini Research Institute. pp. 176–179.
  20. Yogi Bhajan (2007). The Aquarian Teacher, KRI International Teacher Training in Kundalini Yoga as taught by Yogi Bhajan (4th ed.). Kundalini Research Institute. p. 20.
  21. ^ Sivananda, Sri Swami (1994). Yoga Kundalini (10th ed.). Uttar Pradesh, India: The Divine Life Society. pp. 35–36. ISBN 81-7052-052-5.
  22. Yogi Bhajan, The Aquarian Teacher, KRI International Teacher Training in Kundalini Yoga as taught by Yogi Bhajan, Kundalini Research Institute, 4th Edition, 2007, page 177
  23. Swami Sivananda (4th ed. 2007) page 23
  24. Sovatsky, Stuart (1998) Words from the Soul: Time, East/West Spirituality, and Psychotherapeutic Narrative, Suny Series in Transpersonal and Humanistic Psychology, New York: State University of New York Press, p. 142
  25. "The Second Coming of Guru Jagat". Vanity Fair. 1 December 2021. Retrieved 20 May 2023.
  26. ^ Orecchio-Egresitz, Haven. "Before the sudden death of its leader, Ra Ma Yoga Institute was accused by some former members of being a cult. What happens now?". Insider. Retrieved 20 May 2023.

Further reading

  • Arambula, P; Peper, E; Kawakami, M; Gibney, KH (2001). "The Physiological Correlates of Kundalini Yoga Meditation: A Study of a Yoga Master". Appl Psychophysiol Biofeedback. 26 (2): 147–53. doi:10.1023/a:1011343307783. PMID 11480165. S2CID 18448634.
  • Cromie, William J. (2002) Research: Meditation Changes Temperatures: Mind Controls Body in Extreme Experiments. Harvard University Gazette, 18 April 2002.
  • Eastman, David T. "Kundalini Demystified", Yoga Journal, September 1985, pp. 7–43, California Yoga Teachers Association.
  • Laue, Thorsten: Tantra im Westen. Eine religionswissenschaftliche Studie über „Weißes Tantra Yoga“, „Kundalini Yoga“ und „Sikh Dharma“ in Yogi Bhajans „Healthy, Happy, Holy Organization“ (3HO) unter besonderer Berücksichtigung der „3H Organisation Deutschland e. V.“, Münster: LIT, 2012, zugl.: Tübingen, Univ., Diss., 2011, ISBN 978-3-643-11447-1
  • Laue, Thorsten: Kundalini Yoga, Yogi Tee und das Wassermannzeitalter. Bibliografische Einblicke in die Healthy, Happy, Holy Organization (3HO) des Yogi Bhajan. Tübingen: 2008. Online at "TOBIAS-lib - Zugang zum Dokument - Kundalini Yoga, Yogi Tee und das Wassermannzeitalter: Bibliografische Einblicke in die Healthy, Happy, Holy Organization (3HO) des Yogi Bhajan - Laue, Thorsten". Tobias-lib.ub.uni-tuebingen.de. 31 October 2008. Archived from the original on 10 June 2009. Retrieved 2 January 2011. .
  • Laue, Thorsten: Kundalini Yoga, Yogi Tee und das Wassermannzeitalter. Religionswissenschaftliche Einblicke in die Healthy, Happy, Holy Organization (3HO) des Yogi Bhajan, Münster: LIT, 2007, ISBN 978-3-8258-0140-3 .
  • Narayan, R; Kamat, A; Khanolkar, M; Kamat, S; Desai, SR; Dhume, RA (October 1990). "Quantitative evaluation of muscle relaxation induced by Kundalini yoga with the help of EMG integrator". Indian J. Physiol. Pharmacol. 34 (4): 279–81. PMID 2100290.
  • Peng, CK; Mietus, JE; Liu, Y; et al. (July 1999). "Exaggerated heart rate oscillations during two meditation techniques". Int. J. Cardiol. 70 (2): 101–7. doi:10.1016/s0167-5273(99)00066-2. PMID 10454297.
  • Shivananda, Swami (1999) . Kundalini Yoga (WWW ed.). The Divine Life Trust Society. ISBN 81-7052-052-5.
  • Sivananda Radha Saraswati, Kundalini Yoga for the West (1979; 2nd ed. 1996)
  • The Aquarian Teacher, KRI International Teacher Training in Kundalini Yoga as taught by Yogi Bhajan, Kundalini Research Institute, 4th Edition, 2007.
  • Turner, Robert P.; Lukoff, David; Barnhouse, Ruth Tiffany; Lu, Francis G. (1995). "Religious or Spiritual Problem. A Culturally Sensitive Diagnostic Category in the DSM-IV". Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease. 183 (7): 435–444. doi:10.1097/00005053-199507000-00003. PMID 7623015.

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