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In life, we're all constantly navigating through a labyrinth of experiences that mold, transform, and occasionally shatter our perceptions of reality. Each of us is on a unique journey, at times pursuing the path of self-love and self-discovery, while on other occasions, diligently pursuing personal growth and self-improvement. One spiritual experience some of us go through is a Kundalini awakening.
If you're unfamiliar with the term, a Kundalini awakening is a type of spiritual awakening, which is when someone has a profound shift in their perception of self and the world around them. It typically involves the realization that there is more to life than what's on the surface, and can lead to a series of changes in your understanding of things. Kundalini has the power to awaken you to a realm of enhanced consciousness and transformative spiritual growth.
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In this article, we will explain what Kundalini energy is, how to identify it, and how to harness its power to become a better person — one who has a deep sense of awareness and more connected to the world around you.
What is Kundalini energy?
Rooted in Hindu philosophy, Kundalini is a form of divine energy. In Sanskrit, the word means "coiled" or "snake."
"Kundalini energy is often described as a dormant, coiled energy at the base of the spine," explains Griff Williams, a meditation teacher and founder of MindEasy, a meditation, wellness, and spiritual website. " It's seen as a potent spiritual energy that, when awakened, can lead to spiritual growth and transformation."
In other words, picture a coiled serpent resting silently at the base of your spine. This, experts say, is Kundalini. The serpent imagery alludes to the latent nature of this divine energy that lies within us, just waiting to be awakened so it can spring to the surface.
What is a Kundalini awakening?
A Kundalini awakening is the awakening of an inner energy that propels you towards spiritual growth. When Kundalini is awakened, it rises up from the base of your spine, making its way through the seven chakras, or energy centers of your body, to the crown of your head. Kundalini can be awakened through practices like yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises.
"A Kundalini awakening is the process by which this dormant energy rises from the base of the spine and moves up through the chakras, the energy centers in the body," explains Matthias Dettmann, a psychologist, tarot reader, and astrologer. "This awakening is often described as a profound and life-changing experience, leading to heightened awareness, spiritual insights, and a sense of connection with the universe."
Picture the process as an energy highway being built, connecting the physical realm with the spiritual. Those who experience a Kundalini awakening often describe it not as a theoretical concept but as a very real, very tangible phenomenon. "It changes your consciousness," Williams attests.
Signs of a Kundalini awakening
So how do you know if you’re having a Kundalini awakening? Kundalini awakening experiences can be as unique as people are. That said, Williams and Dettmann say a few common signs of a Kundalini awakenings are:
- Intense energy surges
- Tingling sensations along the spine
- Changes in consciousness
- Heightened awareness and intuition
- Increased creativity
- Profound spiritual experiences
- A deep sense of bliss and interconnectedness
In layman's terms, one person might feel a sudden rush of energy, while others might experience emotional upheavals or psychological shifts. Some might even find their creativity soaring to new heights, or their intuition suddenly becoming razor sharp. Some might also feel physical sensations, like a warmth rising up the spine.
While some of these experiences could be challenging, try to keep in mind that they are part of your journey. Be patient with yourself and treat yourself with the care and kindness you deserve.
Transformative benefits of a Kundalini awakening
When Kundalini awakens, some say it's like a spiritual alarm clock ringing, pushing you towards a greater awareness of yourself and the world around you. Simply put, a Kundalini awakening can be the gateway to your highest potential.
According to Williams, some of the benefits of a Kundalini awakening can include:
- Increased self-awareness
- Enhanced spiritual growth
- A deeper understanding of the self and the universe
"You may find your perspective shifting," he says. "You’ll notice an increased sense of empathy and understanding, in addition to a stronger connection with others."
A Kundalini awakening can also bring about inspiration. It can lead to making positive changes in your life, like following your passions, or cultivating inner peace. As a result, a Kundalini awakening can also heighten your sense of well-being and can help you manage stress better.
How to harness a Kundalini awakening
If you’re trying to force a Kundalini awakening to happen, give yourself some grace — that’s not how it works. “While it's possible to engage in practices aimed at awakening Kundalini energy, it's not something to be forced,” Williams says. “A Kundalini awakening is a profound spiritual process that should be approached with respect and preparation.”
Dettmann also advises not forcing or artificially inducing a Kundalini awakening (with drugs, for example). "The process of Kundalini rising is a natural and spontaneous event that occurs when an individual is spiritually ready and prepared," he says. "Forcing the awakening can lead to imbalances and potentially harmful effects on the physical, emotional, and mental well-being."
⚠️ Expert advice: Dettmann stresses that it’s crucial to work with a qualified teacher or guide during this process to ensure proper guidance and understanding of the experiences that may arise. In other words, don’t go it alone unless you’re already a pro!
But while you can't force a Kundalini awakening, you can certainly cultivate it and be ready for its occurrence. "To harness a Kundalini awakening, individuals are encouraged to engage in practices that support the safe and balanced flow of energy," explains Dettmann. "These practices may include yoga, meditation, breathwork, and other forms of energy work."
Kundalini awakening vs. spiritual awakening
It’s important to not confuse a Kundalini awakening with other types of spiritual awakenings, because they are not interchangeable.
"Spiritual awakening" is a more general term; it's about becoming more conscious of your spiritual essence and can happen in countless ways. A Kundalini awakening, on the other hand, can certainly spark a spiritual awakening, but it's just one pathway, and in this instance, each journey is unique to the individual.
What sets a Kundalini awakening apart from other spiritual awakenings is that Kundalini energy is a deeply personal and transformative force, and happens via prolonged spiritual practice. Awakening it is a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. It's about you — your story, your life, and your spiritual path. So embrace it, cherish it, and let the journey inspire you.
Ysolt Usigan is a lifestyle writer and editor with 15+ years of experience working in digital media. She has created share-worthy content for publishers Shape, What To Expect, Cafe Mom, TODAY, CBS News, HuffPo, The Bump, Health, Ask Men, and Best Gifts. A working mom of two, her editorial expertise in parenting, shopping, and home are rooted in her everyday life.
