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What are the origins of Kundalini yoga and how does it relate to Eastern religions?

Heidy Stoite

Kundalini yoga has its roots in the ancient Hindu and Tantric traditions of India, and is believed to date back over five thousand years. The practice of Kundalini yoga was traditionally kept secret and only passed down through oral instruction from master to disciple. It wasn't until the 1960s that Kundalini yoga was introduced to the Western world by Yogi Bhajan.

The term "kundalini" refers to a subtle energy that is said to lie coiled at the base of the spine, and is represented as a serpent. It is believed that through the practice of Kundalini yoga, this energy can be awakened and allowed to rise up through the chakras, or energy centers, in the body, leading to an experience of spiritual awakening and enlightenment.

Kundalini yoga incorporates a variety of different practices, including physical postures, breath work, chanting, meditation, and the use of mantra. These practices are designed to help balance and harmonize the body, mind, and spirit, and to awaken the kundalini energy.

Kundalini yoga has strong ties to the Eastern spiritual traditions of India, including Hinduism and Tantra. Many of the postures, breath work techniques, and mantras used in Kundalini yoga are derived from these traditions. In addition, the philosophy and teachings of Kundalini yoga are based on the principles of these Eastern spiritual traditions, including the belief in the interconnectedness of all things, the importance of living a life of service and compassion, and the understanding that each individual has the potential for spiritual awakening and enlightenment.

While Kundalini yoga is rooted in Eastern spiritual traditions, it has also been adapted and incorporated into Western culture. Today, Kundalini yoga is practiced by people from all walks of life and backgrounds, and is recognized for its ability to help individuals connect with their inner selves, release stress and tension, and improve physical and mental health.

In conclusion, Kundalini yoga originated in the ancient Hindu and Tantric traditions of India and is based on the awakening of the kundalini energy, which is said to lie coiled at the base of the spine. The practice of Kundalini yoga includes physical postures, breath work, mantra, and meditation, and has strong ties to the Eastern spiritual traditions of India, including Hinduism and Tantra. However, it has also been adapted and incorporated into Western culture and is recognized for its ability to help individuals connect with their inner selves, release stress and tension, and improve physical and mental health.