In its purest form of practice, kundalini yoga unites the body with Lord Siva to promote a state of samadhi, or mindfulness. The kundalini itself is awakened through yoga practice. Most yoga students, regardless of the particular style of yoga they practice, are familiar with the term kundalini, which is described as a power or force, seen as a coiled serpent, which resides in the Muladhara Chakra at the base of the spine. The goal of kundalini yoga is to raise this kundalini energy.
This all sounds very complicated, but you don't have to go to a mountaintop in India to become a student of kundalini yoga. Kundalini yoga was introduced to the West in the 1960s by Yogi Bhajan, and now, Kundalini yoga centers are located in virtually every major city in the U.S. and Mexico, including New York City, Los Angeles, the Chicago's downtown loop, as well as throughout the Far East, where you can study kundalini yoga and meditation. If you are inclined to share your knowledge with others, kundalini yoga teacher training is available, and you may be able to become certified as an instructor. Even if no center is convenient, you can still learn about and practice kundalini yoga through DVDs, videos and books.
Unlike purely physical types of yoga exercises, kundalini yoga combines physical exercises with spiritual ones through meditation. This technique can lead to a higher consciousness. Besides promoting physical fitness and awareness, kundalini yoga incorporates breath control and meditation, and has been practiced throughout India for thousands of years. It is completely safe and simple to get started. It does not require a substantial time commitment, and even spending a few minutes a day meditating and sitting in some of the kundalini postures can provide great benefits.
The various kriyas, or exercises, involved in kundalini yoga are designed to let the student focus on very specific areas of oneself that need improvement. Besides keeping the body healthy and fit, kundalini yoga also is healthy for the mind and spirit. It promotes self-awareness, and allows you to gain control over your mental and emotional energy, gain self-confidence, and gives you an increased ability to concentrate.
Kundalini symbolizes unity of masculine (Siva) and feminine (Sakti) energy, which when combined, creates a tremendous source of energy and power. However, one should not mistake the focus on Sakti and Siva as a sexual practice; sexual union is not a principle of Kundalini yoga.
Achieving this unity through kundalini yoga is said to promote energy and creativity, eliminate negative feelings such as depression, and even to promote prosperity in the follower. The ultimate goal of Kundalini yoga is the awakening of the chakras, and although it can be done without having to devote significant amounts of time to the endeavor, it does require patience and dedication. One who is in the awakened state achieved thusly is said to be in a state of Unmani, or no body consciousness, where the possibility of psychic powers and control over the elements becomes possible.
