Kundalini (Latent Spiritual Energy)

Kundalini is a Sanskrit term referring to a latent spiritual energy believed to reside at the base of the spine.

Often visualized as a coiled serpent wrapped around the Muladhara (root chakra) 3 and a half time. This energy represents untapped potential within every individual.

In yoga and tantra, the awakening of kundalini is seen as a path to deep spiritual transformation, unlocking higher states of consciousness, awareness, and vitality.

Etymology and Meaning

Sanskrit Spelling: कुण्डलिनी

Root Word: "Kundala" (coil, ring, spiral)

Translation Variations: Coiled energy, inner serpent, latent force

Pronunciation: Kundalinī [koon-dah-LEE-nee]

Kundalini refers to a powerful and dynamic process of inner evolution that is central to many yoga traditions, especially in tantra and kriya yoga.

Symbolism and Role in Yoga

Serpent: Represents potential, transformation, and the coiled power of nature

Chakras: Kundalini rises through the chakras when awakened, purifying and activating each energy center

Shakti: Kundalini is often described as Shakti, the divine feminine energy within each being

Practical Application

In Yoga Practice

• Kundalini Yoga uses kriyas (action sets), breathwork, mantra, and meditation to awaken kundalini safely
• Subtle practices such as bandhas (energy locks) and pranayama (breath control) help direct this energy upward
• Awakening kundalini can be spontaneous or gradual but it must be approached with respect and preparation

In Daily Life

• Feel kundalini as creative potential, inspiration, and clarity that arises when you're aligned
• Honor shifts in energy or awareness as signs of spiritual maturation
• Support your nervous system with grounding practices like nature walks, stable routines, and mindful rest

Quotes and Wisdom

"Kundalini is your inner teacher. It rises when you’re ready to listen."

"This energy is not mystical—it is you, waiting to be known more deeply."

Modern Relevance

Kundalini has become widely known through the teachings of Yogi Bhajan and the rise of Kundalini Yoga in the West.

However, the concept appears throughout many Indian traditions such as Hatha Yoga, Tantra, and Vedanta alike. While some approach kundalini as a literal energetic awakening, others see it as a metaphor for psychological growth and spiritual development.

Its relevance today lies in reminding us of our untapped potential and the power of disciplined inner work.

Related Concepts

Shakti: The divine feminine force that kundalini embodies

Chakras: Energy centers awakened as kundalini rises

Sushumna: The central channel through which kundalini ascends

How to Work with Kundalini

Mindset: Approach with humility, patience, and self-awareness

Actions: Use mantra, kriya, and breath to awaken without forcing

Reflection: Ask, “What part of me is ready to rise and what still needs grounding?”

Suggested Reading

• Kundalini Tantra by Swami Satyananda Saraswati
• The Serpent Power by Sir John Woodroffe
• Wheels of Life by Anodea Judith

Conclusion

Kundalini is the sleeping power within. When awakened with care, it transforms every layer of the self from body to mind to spirit.

This energy is your own. Yoga offers the map, but the journey belongs to you.

Note from the Author

Kundalini energy is said to be the driving force behind our soul. As we incarnate, our soul travels through the chakras from Sahasrara (crown chakra) and journeys to Muldadhara (root chakra) where the shakti energy goes to rest firmly rooted into this incarnation.

On its path through the chakras, it imparts its energy, resonance, and frequency to shape the blueprint of your karmic experience. When Kundalini begins to awake, it dances like a cobra in a trance, upwards. When it's ready to awaken, it rushes through the nadis, primarily up Sushumna, Ida, and Pingala, and out the crown chakra connecting the experiencer to a deeper level of source connection.

While we can awaken this energy during our incarnation, it is hibernating for the purpose of existence in the lila (divine play) which you can, of course, awake from if you so desire that path.

Kundalini energy is not something you should take lightly. If you are not already in a practice, it's advised to find one, even further if you are experiencing difficulty with an unexpected kundalini awakening then it is advised you find a teacher who can help guide you through this process.

Do not allow your ego to think you have experienced an awakening. This process can take a lifetime to happen and may not happen in that lifetime. Kundalini awakening is not always something that is appreciated or desired.

Take it seriously, take it lightly.

Blessings on your journey,

Jack Utermoehl