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Kundalini Energy is a key theme of the yoga tradition.  It represents a dormant power in the body awoken as part of a process of awakening and enlightenment.

So far, so good.  However Kundalini gets a mixed review – in some yoga traditions activating Kundalini is encouraged, in others its considered dangerous, at least without guidance, preparation and care.  I think all experienced yoga practitioners would regard Kundalini with some caution.

The danger in unregulated Kundalini emergence would be a range of mental health symptoms, possibly fitting what would be called “psychosis” – however proponents of Kundalini awakening would certainly use a different term and maybe attribute a more positive slant to the process. 

So, this is a difficult issue for a modern yoga practitioner.   A key part of yoga philosophy and the energy body on the one part; possibly a health and personal risk on the other.  I’m not going to make further comment on this either way – its something outside of the scope of a yoga class environment, and an area where experienced yoga practitioners will need to develop their own outlook with guidance.

However I wanted to mention this book, which I read recently.  Its a collection of Essays on the Kundalini awakening process – its full subtitle “Kundalini Rising – Exploring the Energy of Awakening”.  Although its formed of discrete writings from different authors, the editor has brought together a selection of views, perspectives and approaches, and as such this is a useful primer in the area whatever your personal views.  I felt it was a nuanced and balanced approach, looking at Personal Experiences; Health and Therapeutic Insights; Historical, Philosophical and Cultural aspects  and the Yoga Tradition.

This is a book suitable for the experienced yogi or yoga teacher wanting some more depth on the topic; not a book for yoga beginners or those seeking a short cut to enlightenment – something yoga never offers.  I cautiously endorse it with the caveat that care needs to be taken with the whole area.

Kundalini Rising can be purchased on Amazon, and if you use this link Yinspire earns a small commission