Dangers of Kundalini Yoga
The prana or untapped energy of the human body, which can be stimulated through the awakening of the seven chakras in the body, is called kundalini. This energy is present at the base of the spine.
Once it reaches the crown chakra, complete enlightenment is said to be achieved. Kundalini yoga is thus the practice of achieving physical, mental and spiritual discipline for the mind and body by stimulating of the kundalini.
It is also called the yoga of awareness as the senses of an individual are awakened to a higher degree and consciousness. It has basically been practiced in India since ancient times.
Kundalini yoga is a very powerful tool that can be utilized for the development of the senses, if practiced with care. But is the practice of kundalini yoga dangerous? It is believed that the premature awakening of the kundalini can be a problem as the body is not yet ready to handle it. According to the sages, the dangers of kundalini awakening include excessive flow of energy through the body, which the body cannot process. Hence, it is always best to consult a yoga professional and discuss whether it is for you, and if so, to practice it under the guidance of a professional.
Spiritual Emergencies
The psychotic state of mind occurs as a result of changes in personality, which is generally treated by suppressive medication. If these spiritual emergencies are dealt with properly and correctly understood, they can lead to emotional healing, and a complete psychological transformation. Conventional psychiatrists generally tend to neglect such psycho spiritual crisis and mystical experiences.
Physical Symptoms
The physical symptoms of kundalini awakening include intense sensations of energy in the body and the sensation of heat moving up the spine. Since the kundalini is said to reside at the base of the human spine, its activation also takes place through the spine. The kundalini rises through the nadis after the awakening of the chakras. Emotional outbursts, anxiety, anger, sadness, joy, and other emotional states can dominate the mindset of the person temporarily. Visions of dazzling light or various archetypal beings and variety of sounds, which can only be perceived by the person internally, are some of the other physical symptoms.
Emotional Symptoms
The kriyas or emotional symptoms of the Kundalini generally come from the practitioner’s past life experiences. It is believed that these experiences are often strong and emotionally charged. This may lead to involuntary behaviour. Speaking in different languages, chanting songs or sacred mantras, which have not been heard before, and trying to mimic animal sounds and movements are generally some of the uncontrollable symptoms experienced. Even assuming yogic postures and gestures are related to the emotional symptoms of the Kundalini. For this reason, expert guidance is generally sought by a guru who has a fully awakened and stabilized Kundalini.
Psychotic Breakdown
Kundalini yoga poses a serious risk of psychotic breakdown in which the practitioner distances himself from reality. This causes an altered sense of time and surroundings, which leads to the disruption in normal daily life.
Guidelines for Safe Kundalini Yoga Practice
It is essential that one practices yoga in the right way, following the proper rules and regulations and under the guidance of an expert so as to fully reap the benefits. Some of the guidelines are,
- The body should never be excessively strained so as to prevent the premature awakening of Kundalini.
- Excessive chakra meditations should also not be performed.
- The body should be in perfect medical health so as to handle the strain.
- Drugs and other medication for enhancing the effects of yoga should be avoided.
- Along with all of the above one should have the right attitude before embarking on the practice of yoga.
- The mind and body should have enough time to recuperate.
