The Serpent Power of Spiritual Awakening

by

Austin Perris

Kundalini is an ancient concept rooted in yogic philosophy. It is often referred to as the dormant spiritual energy coiled at the base of the spine. Described symbolically as a serpent coiled three and a half times around the Muladhara (root) chakra, Kundalini represents the vast reservoir of untapped potential within every human being. 

When awakened, this energy is said to rise through the central energy channel (sushumna nadi) and activate the chakras, leading ultimately to enlightenment, divine union, and transcendence of the ordinary human condition.

The Sanskrit word "Kundalini" is derived from kundal, meaning "coiled" or "circular," reflecting the imagery of the sleeping serpent. This symbolism is profound: a creature that is usually earthbound but, when awakened, strikes with transformative force. 

Similarly, Kundalini is associated with primal creative force (shakti), and its awakening is seen as the ignition of the spiritual journey, a metamorphosis from the mundane to the sublime.

In traditional yogic teachings, particularly within Tantra and certain schools of Vedanta, the human being is understood to be composed of multiple layers — the physical body, the energetic body, the mind, and the spirit. 

The energetic body consists of numerous channels (nadis) and centers of consciousness (chakras). Kundalini resides at the base of this system, largely dormant until it is consciously activated through disciplined spiritual practice.

Practices that aim to awaken Kundalini include meditation, pranayama (breath control), mantra chanting, physical postures (asanas), and devotion (bhakti). Among these, Kundalini Yoga is a specific tradition popularized in the modern world, especially by teachers like Yogi Bhajan. 

However, it is important to note that Kundalini awakening is not exclusive to any one method or tradition; it can occur spontaneously, sometimes triggered by intense emotional experiences, trauma, or sudden moments of deep spiritual insight.

The journey of Kundalini rising through the chakras is rich with symbolic meaning. As the energy ascends, it must purify and balance each chakra. Each center represents different aspects of human life — survival, sexuality, willpower, love, communication, intuition, and divine consciousness. 

Challenges and inner "blocks" at each chakra must be faced and transcended. Thus, the awakening is not merely a rush of power but a profound inner alchemy, transforming fear into trust, lust into sacred union, and egoism into compassion.

An awakened Kundalini brings extraordinary abilities (siddhis), heightened states of awareness, blissful ecstasies, and deep inner peace. Yet, spiritual teachers have long cautioned that these by-products can be distractions. 

The true purpose of Kundalini awakening is union with the Divine, a state called samadhi in yogic terms, where the illusion of separateness dissolves, and the individual consciousness merges with cosmic consciousness.

Kundalini's power is both revered and feared. Awakening it prematurely or without proper guidance can lead to what is sometimes called "Kundalini syndrome," manifesting as psychological and physiological symptoms, such as anxiety, mood swings, heat sensations, or disorientation. This occurs when the body and mind are unprepared to handle the intensity of the awakened energy. 

Therefore, in traditional teachings, Kundalini awakening is pursued slowly and reverently, with the aid of a qualified teacher (guru) who can guide the aspirant through the challenges of the path.

From a metaphysical perspective, Kundalini can be seen as the feminine aspect of God (Shakti) seeking reunion with the masculine principle (Shiva) located at the crown chakra (Sahasrara). Their union represents the highest realization—the awareness that all dualities are illusions and all life is an expression of a single, boundless reality.

As humanity continues to evolve spiritually, the understanding and respectful awakening of Kundalini may be one key to a new era of consciousness characterized by unity, compassion, and luminous awareness.

  Kundalini, a sacred force that guides one home to the Divine Source.

For the Video, "Awaken The Kundalini Energy," click here