Discovering Kundalini: What It Is and How to Activate It

What is Kundalini Awakening?

As per ancient spiritual practices, kundalini is a type of latent energy located under the base of one’s spine. This energy rises up the spinal column through the following:

• deep breathing

• mudras

• mantras

• physical movements

Doing these exercises is thought to wake up the energy and chakras in your body and guide it through different energy centres until it reaches the top of your head. This release of energy helps bring balance within you, making you more aware and enlightened.

Benefits of Kundalini Awakening

Benefits of kundalini awakening, as per research, include the following:

• Increased mindfulness and compassion

• Improved communication with self and others

• Inspiration

• A clear state of mind

• A more developed sense of self

• Being aware of your consciousness

• Greater purpose and intent in your actions

• Reduced Stress

• Reduced Anxiety

• Improved Cognitive Function

How to Awaken Kundalini?

If you have a particular concern, choose specific techniques with a teacher. For beginners, consider trying Kundalini meditation with a practitioner or through guided sessions. Adopting the following practices may help.

1. Dress Comfortably

• Wear light, loose clothing for comfort.

• Consider covering your head with a shawl for energy flow.

2. Tune In

• Sit upright, keeping your spine straight; you can sit in a chair or on the floor.

• Press the palms together at your chest in a prayer pose.

• Close your eyes slightly, leaving a small opening for light.

3. Focus on the Third Eye

• Keep your eyes closed and turn your gaze to the space between your eyebrows.

4. Use a Mantra

• Choose a mantra in Gurmukhi or one that feels right to you.

• Say it aloud or repeat it silently to direct focus.

5. Breath Awareness

• Inhale and exhale through your nose.

• Slow your breath, making each inhale and exhale for about 8 seconds.

• Feel how your breath flows through and energises your body.

6. Add Mudras

• Use hand positions (mudras) for specific purposes.

• Example: Gyan mudra for wisdom, openness, and calm.

7. Equal Segments Breathing

• Divide each inhale and exhale into four parts.

• Inhale four times without exhaling, then exhale in the same way.

• Draw your navel toward your spine with each breath.

8. Maintain Focus

• Return attention to your breath if your mind wanders.

• Acknowledge wandering thoughts and let them drift away.

9. Continue for 3 to 5 Minutes

• Start with a shorter session if you’re new to meditation.

• Gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable.

10. End the Session

• Conclude with a deep breath (inhale and exhale).

• Inhale as you raise your arms, exhale and relax as you lower them.