Kundalini Yoga: Awaken to a New Form of Yoga & Energy

Kundalini means kund (depth) and alini(awakening/ energy). It translates into the vast resource of energy within all of us, lying deep inside, waiting to be awakened. The only thing any layperson would know about Kundalini yoga is the fallacious concept that is meant to awaken the sexual prowess. In this powerful age of branding, it was promoted as such. And in the process, it got shrouded in awe, fear with a cloak of mystery.

Kundalini arousal, particularly partial arousal, is more prevalent than usually imagined. It is a process that is more commonly addressed in occult/esoteric circles than scientific writings; indeed it could be said that medical science shows little appreciation of, nor understanding of, kundalini.

"In Sanskrit, Kundalini literally means, 'That which is coiled'. This coiled serpent is believed to be lying at the base of our spine and can spring awake when activated by spiritual disciplines. Here, the spiritual discipline being, practicing Kundalini Yoga. A poetic way of describing the word 'kundalini' is "the curl of the lock of hair of the beloved". It is a metaphor describing the flow of energy and consciousness which already exists within individuals."

Although Kundalini is very much a physical form of yoga, the main benefit is derived from the inner experience. Most popularly known as the 'Yoga of awareness', Kundalini yoga awakens the unlimited potential already existing in all human beings. When this energy is awakened in the body, it gives the individual enhanced intuition and mental clarity and creative potential.

When and where does Kundalini start?

Spontaneous Kundalini arousal whether full or partial is often associated with a history of meditation, yoga or prayer. The energy release begins in the lower part of the body and moves upwards. It often starts in the feet, but many say that it starts with the lower chakra that is located near the perineum. The order and progression of the energy through the chakras varies with each individual.

This internal transfer of energy, which can be extremely powerful, is accompanied by many different feelings, usually new to the recipient and is therefore bewildering or even frightening.

There are many ways to awaken the kundalini, the sexual path is just one of them. The many ways are Hatha yoga, Raja yoga, Bhakti yoga, Gyan yoga and the path of tantra Kundalini Chakras.

A chakra is thought to be an energy node in the human body. The seven main chakras are described as being aligned in an ascending column from the base of the spine to the top of the head. The chakras are thought to encourage the physical body and to be associated with interactions of both a physical and mental nature. They are considered as prana, which is thought to flow among them along pathways called nadis. The seven chakras reflect how the unified consciousness of man is divided to manage different aspects of earthly life.

Yoga: The Fountain of Youth

Mountain affectation teaches us, literally, how to stand on our own two feet.... teaching us to root ourselves into the globe.... Our bodies become a connection between paradise and earth.

Visualize a workout that will toughen and tone your muscles, invigorate your mind, increase your flexibility and reduce stress, all without putting too much strain on your body. Lucky for you: There is such a magical workout, and it’s called yoga. Want to learn more? Keep reading to learn about this amazing all-in-one exercise.

What is Yoga?
Yoga is an ancient Indian body of knowledge that dates back more than 5000 years ago as a way to work the mind, body and spirit together as one. The word Yoga comes from the Sanskrit word "Yuj" meaning to yoke, join or union. This implies joining or integrating all aspects of the individual - body with brain and mind with essence - to achieve a happy, balanced and useful life, and spiritually, uniting the individual with the extreme.

What is commonly referred to as "yoga" can be more accurately described by the Sanskrit word asana, which refers to the practice of physical postures or poses.

Asana is only one of the eight "limbs" of yoga, the majority of which are more concerned with mental and spiritual well being than physical activity. In the West, however, the words asana and yoga are often used interchangeably.

Yoga Poses
Many people think that yoga is just stretching. But while stretching is certainly involved, yoga is really about creating balance in the body through developing both strength and flexibility. This is done through the performance of poses or postures, each of which has specific physical benefits. There are many basic as well as advanced yoga poses that can help in the control and reduction of hypertension.

Yoga Benefits
The most important benefit of yoga is physical and mental therapy. The aging process, which is largely an artificial condition, caused mainly by autointoxication or self-poisoning, can be slowed down by practicing yoga. By keeping the body clean, flexible and well lubricated, we can significantly reduce the catabolic process of cell deterioration. To get the maximum benefits of yoga one has to combine the practices of yogasanas, pranayama and meditation.

Regular practice of asanas, pranayama and meditation can help such diverse ailments such as diabetes, blood pressure, digestive disorders, arthritis, arteriosclerosis, chronic fatigue, asthma, varicose veins and heart conditions. Laboratory tests have proved the yogi's increased abilities of consciously controlling autonomic or involuntary functions, such as temperature, heartbeat and blood pressure. Research into the effects of yogic practices on HIV is currently underway with promising results.

Who benefits from Yoga?
Everyone can benefit from the relaxation, cardiovascular and strength building exercises of yoga. However, some groups may find special health-boosting benefits.

Seniors: Posture, balance, flexibility and fitness levels diminish with age. Recent studies suggest an active lifestyle including yoga (like Hatha or Lyengar) can improve a senior’s balance and posture.

Pregnant women: Prenatal yoga is a new trend that claims to alleviate all sorts of symptoms associated with pregnancy like fatigue, swelling and poor digestion. And because the focus is on breathing and slow, steady stretching, the poses you practice may help out in the delivery room.

Asthma: Because the focus in many classes is on breathing, asthma sufferers can benefit from a consistent practice of the activity.

Really Yoga is a great and nice exercise for our body. Therefore one best known saying for Yoga is "Yoga is the fountain of youth. You're only as young as your spine is flexible. ~Bob Harper"



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