Awakening Kundalini By Holly Semanoff

Kundalini energy is literally the latent female energy that lies coiled in the base of the spine. It is the power behind the workings of the autonomic nervous system which includes the heartbeat and the breath. It lies within the second vertebrae of the spine and is dormant in most people though it is starting to awaken more and more as the female energy of humanity is beginning to gain momenteum. To awaken kundalini is to open the doorway to your soul, while in the physical existence. This is done by using specific breath, body movements, and mantras. When kundalini is awakened it moves through your chakra system, unlocking energetic knots, purging old negativity, emotions and inner blocks so that you can experience your higher nature. Kundalini is just one of the components of your subtle body and in order to understand kundalini you must also have an understanding of your subtle body.

The Subtle Body

Everything in the world is made up of energy, which can be defined as “information that vibrates.” The subtle body cannot be separated from the physical body anymore than color red can be pulled out of a strawberry and remain edible.

Scientific research has proven that everything energetic contains information or in other words data that tells the atom whether it should occupy a liver or the heart. Besides containing information energy also vibrates at its own unique speed. Subtle energy for instance operates on a different plane than physical energy.

Physical energy is electrical in nature and it travels slower than the speed of light. It also gives rise to gravity. Subtle energy is magnetic in nature and moves faster than the speed of light. It gives rise to what some call levitational force. This means that you can’t see it but can experience its seemingly paranormal effects on the physical level.

The fact is we know subtle energies exist because we can perceive their effects. The core evidence for subtle energies include:

The use of various magnetic devices for perceiving electromagnetic energy beyond the bounds of the body.

The scientific discovery of L-fields, also called electrical field and T-fields, also called thought fields.

The Universal light field, also called a “Zero- point Field,” which consist of photons or units of light that regulate all living things.

The measurement of the meridians and chakra systems that operate at higher levels of electromagnetism than the rest of the body.

Why are we unable to see these fields? Human senses operate within a narrow range on the electromagnetic spectrum, which is the measurable band of energy that produces various types of light. Our eyes can only detect radiation, the term for noticeable energy emitted by substances, in the range of 380 to 780 nanometers. That is visible light and what we know is that subtle energy is faster than the speed light but just because we cannot see it does not mean it doesn’t exist. Subtle energy is much like sound waves. We cannot see the sound waves with our naked eye but we can perceive, hear, and feel its effects.

Subtle energies also operate by different rules than measurable physical energy. They work within the realm of quantum physics, which can stretch-and sometimes completely ignore-time and space, change form at will, and occupy many places at once. In the science of yoga it has been known that subtle energies actually create physical reality and research now is starting to prove it. If you can fix a so called problem in the subtle structures, the subtle system can then share this solution down through and into the physical body.

Subtle energy flows downward from the highest subtle energy, which can be called “the Divine,” to the lowest, which can be defined as body or physical. Each level provides a template for the level below. As the subtle energy enters the domain, it adapts-but also instructs. The laws differ on each of these levels because the energy gets denser. The energy from the least to most dense is as follows:

The Divine Spirit Mind Body

The meridians and chakras operate like antennas that detect and send signals from the physical reality into the upper realities and vice versa. These subtle structures interact between all the levels of reality that exist from the physical all the way to the Divine and from the Divine all the way to the physical.

Prana: Life Force Energy

When we speak of prana we are referring to the vital energy of the universe. Nearly every culture has its own version. The chinese call it chi, the japanese call it ki, the christians refer to it as the holy ghost, and recent researchers call it bioenergy, biomagnetism, electro-chemical energy, electro-magnetic energy, subtle energy, or just plain energy. Since we are going to be working with the ancient scientific system of yoga throughout this book we will be referring to this subtle energy by its yoga given name found in the ancient Vedas, from which all yoga came from, as prana. In this workshop we will be working with prana and apana (a specific type of prana) to raise kundalini.

Prana literally means “breathing forth” the universal life force. It mainly flows through the body in the nadis, or nerve channels of the astral body. Prana fills the head, heart, lungs, and throat. This is the primary life breath and is present in the air moving in and out of our nasal passages. It governs inhalation. Our personal prana is our portion of the cosmic life force which manages our energetic processes, especially what we take in from food and water, our five senses, the breath, and ideas we absorb through our mind.

Apana is a specific type of prana, located in the colon. Apana governs downward impulses, including exhalation, urination, excretion, elimination, menstruation, birth, and sexual activities. Apana plays a vital role in the opening of the Brahma nadi and movement of the kundalini.

Kundalini is the powerful current of creative life energy residing in a subtle coiled passageway in the second vertebrae of the spine located near the base of the spine. In ordinary waking consciousness, Prana flows from the brain down the spine and out through this coiled

kundalini passage. It enlivens the physical body, ties the astral and casual bodies, and the indwelling soul to the mortal form.

Through specific conscious breathing techniques and meditation the prana and apana can unite in the second vertebrae of the spine and Kundalini (dormant cosmic energy) is awakened. When the dormnt energy is awakenen it then begins to move up the spine in the shushumna nadi which correlates to the spinal cord in the physical body.

Nadis: Channels of Energy

The word nadi comes from the sanskirt root nad and means “movement.” The nadis are channels that transport various subtle energies throughout the body’s chakra system and physical system. The nadis interact specifically with the physical nervous system. They not only conduct prana throughout the body, but also convert it into different types of energy for organs, glands, and tissues. The nadis also play a vital role in the raising of Kundalini.

There are two specific types of nadis. The first type of nadis is subtle or immaterial and within this group there are two channels. The first channel is Manas, which channel the energy of the mind. The second channel is Chitta, which channels the feeling self.

The second type are gross or physical nadis. They are material, visible channels of subtle energy. This set includes nerves, muscles, vessels of the cardiovascular and lymphatic systems, and the acupuncture meridians.

Both subtle and gross nadis carry prana. There are over 72,000 nadis but three key nadis: the shushumna or main nadi; the Ida that begins at the base of the spine on the left side of the body; and the pingala that begins at the base of the spine on the right side of the body. The major chakras are fed by the Shushumna, which runs inside the vertebral column from the base of the spine to the center of the brain.

The Ida and Pingala nadis cross like a double helix around each chakra and relate to the symphatic nervous trunks on the sides of the spinal cord. Together these three nadis interact to cleanse the physical body and to stimulate the rising of kundalini through the Shushumna nadi.

The Shushumna nadi is the central nadi that passes through the spinal column. It runs from the Muladhara, the first chakra at the base of the spine, all the way up the spinal column into the Sahasrara, the seventh chakra at the crown of the head. From there it splits into two streams. The anterior passes through the Ajna or brow chakra and the posterior stream enters the back of the head before they unite again in the Brahma Randhra, the seat of supreme consciousness that lies between the two hemispheres of the brain and the Sahasrara chakra.

Pranayama: The Science of Breath

Pranyama is the science of the breath. The root word of prana is pra, which means “to fill.’ Prana is therefore the energy that fills the entire universe. Prana is the life force present in all things.

While prana represents the infinite life force, ayama means to magnify or expand. Pranyama therefore indicates the practice of filling with breath, or life force. In practice, pranayama is a set of breathing exercises designed to bring more oxygen to the brain, activate the subtle energy system, and control the life energy in the body.

Breathing is both a neurological and a motor activity that supports all bodily systems. Oxygenation is critical for the health of the body and the mind. The exhalation part of the breath is critical for releasing waste and toxins.

Everyday we take between ten and sixteen breaths a minute; at rest between six and eight. Our breath moves in cycle between one nostril or the other. In this book we will be learning specific techniques of breath or in other words Pranyama. Each of this techniques will have a specific purpose in clearing and magnifying the connection between your body, mind, and spirit. The basic foundation will begin with Ujjaya breathing or victorious breath which we will cover in a little bit but before we go there it is important that we create an understanding of your subtle body.

Conscious Breathing

You will now learn how to take a full, deep diaphragmatic breath. Then we will begin the process of creating the conscious connection to the higher self.

All these lessons are meant to be done in a comfort zone. It is important to create an internal awareness, not only to embrace the awareness of the true self, but also to prevent injury to the body. Do these activities very gently, with conscious attention. The main way you can do these exercises wrong would be to try to hard or go unconscious. There are several symptoms that will let you know when you are performing them wrong. If you get dizzy, tense or uncomfortable in anyway immediately pause and rest, resuming the activity only when you can do it more gently. Balance between pushing yourself beyond what you believe are your limits and knowing when to back off and nurture yourself is key. Listen to your own greater knowing throughout this entire class and follow that guidance.

Always be sure to check with your health care professional before starting any new regimen. This is doubly important if you are in treatment for any breathing problems or any diseases, such as diabetes, in which breathing problems are secondary symptoms. If you are asthmatic or experience other repertory dysfunction, practice with cautious intention until you feel you are ready to dive in.

Also as you practice breathing you may notice your heart beat increasing on the in-breath and slowing down on the out-breath, which is entirely normal.

Cultivating Full Diaphragm Breathing

This lesson will show you how to get your breath farther down into your abdomenand how to move your diaphragm through its full range of motion. When you truly grasp this concept, you can use it to eliminate undesirable energy and create connection to your higher self. From this space life is fully experienced with joy and clarity, living your life in the moment.

First it is important to realize the diaphragm is a muscle. It can be trained and strengthened like any other muscle. Visualize a wide, fan-shaped muscle that separates the chest cavity (thorax) and its contents from the abdominal cavity. This is the main muscle of inhalation. When viewed from below, the diaphragm would look like the sky from the earth- the underside of an arched dome. On an inhalation this dome becomes nearly flat, lowering the floor of the chest cavity. When descending the diaphragm presses on the liver, stomach, and other

organs, it gently messages them, stimulates their action, and encourages normal function. Internal organs need exercise much the way external muscles need exercise. The diaphragm is nature’s principle instrument for this internal exercise. Its motion vibrates the important organs of digestion and elimination, messaging and kneading them at each inhale and exhale, forcing blood into the organs and then squeezing it out.

Part One

For this lesson full diaphragmic breath will be cultivating by breathing in through the nose and out through the nose. It is also important to realize that the sound of the breath will be the focus for the mind, breathing through any sensations you feel in the body.

Our lesson will be done in two parts: a lying-down phase and a sitting up phase. The reason for this is simple. Full diaphragm breathing is easiest to learn lying down, but it is most effective if you are seated with your spine straight. We will first hone the skill lying down and then learn how to practice it in a seated position.

Breathing feels a little different lying down then it does from sitting or standing. This is because when you are lying down you have to lift the weight of the abdomen with each in-breath but the weight of the abdomen will also make the out-breath easier. These are not factors when you are sitting or standing.

Instructions:

Begin by lying down on your back, eyes closes, and hands on your diaphragm, inhaling and exhaling out the nose. Now breathe into your lungs deeply in all four directions. As you continue to breathe and your breath gets deeper you may even feel the ribs below the clavicle raise and fall. Feel the diaphragm flatten out on the inhale pushing down and massages the internal organs and round on the exhale.

Now bringing your attention to the back of your neck, find length there. Continue to breathe bringing your conscious awareness to the main muscle of inhalation and exhalation, the diaphragm.

Part Two

How the Breath Works

The way you breathe has a direct effect on how you channel your prana and this is what we are going to work on next. To continually increase the vibration within you, it is important that you inhale and exhale through the nose. Breathing this way keeps all of your prana within you, without releasing it outside of yourself except on the rare occasion you exhale out the mouth, which we will talk about in a moment.

This kind of breathing is known as ujjayi breathing in Sanskirt, which translates to victorious breath. To support the mind in staying present, ujjayi breathing creates a unique hissing sound that is caused by a slight conscious constriction of the throat as the breath travels through the larynx and over the vocal cords. When we whisper the same action that softens the speech creates the sound in ujjayi breathing. As the throat passageway is narrowed, the velocity of the air traveling through it is increased. This is what generates the sound. Listening to this

sound enables us to practice mindfulness because if the mind isn’t paying attention you can’t do ujjayi breathing and this is because ujjayi breathing doesn’t happen by itself. Bringing the mind under the control of the breath will eventually lead you to the control of the mind. Although ujjayi is done with the mouth closed it is easiest to learn at first with the mouth open so this is what we will be doing.

Instructions:

Now we will translate all that you have learned so far. Sit in an upright seated position. Keeping your spine straight is an important factor when in seated position. Make sure the lower spine is straight and the abdominal muscles are pulled in gently. The rib cage is slightly lifted and the upper vertebrae are stacked on top of the lower vertebrae. Shoulders relax down and are gently pressed back in a natural way. The cervical vertebrae of the neck are straightened, and the neck stretches gently upward. The chin is parallel with the floor, and slightly tucked in. The head is in line with the spine. Feel as though there is an imaginary string that is strung through the lower, middle, and upper spine, the neck, and the top of the head. Imagine that this string is being gently pulled upward, straightening your posture in a gentle natural way.

Begin by imagining a mirror in front of you. Now fog up the mirror with your mouth open on the exhalation making an “ahhh” sound. Completely empty the lungs with the sound. Then inhale with the mouth open using the “ahhh” sound. Completely fill the lungs with the inhale. Then imagine as if your still fogging up the mirror this time closing your mouth. Everything else is the same except the mouth is closed so you are forced to inhale and exhale out the nose. Still imagining you are saying “ahhh” with each inhalation and exhalation.

Visualize the breath swirling at the top of the throat. Imagine for a moment that your breath is like the water of the earth. As you exhale you will visualize, feel, and hear that breath swirl, like water would, at the top of the throat vibrating at the top of the roof of the mouth. The front of your tongue may even lightly press against the roof of your mouth.

Now do this same visualization inhaling through the nose and exhaling out the mouth this time. Feel and hear the breath just like the waves of the ocean coming outside your mouth. Exhalation through the mouth releases any blocks you may have to connecting with your highest source at that time. Sometimes it is necessary to exhale out the mouth to release the energy that is blocking you from channeling the full amount of prana, life-force you are tapping into. Once the blocks are clear and you are centered you can then continue to increase your prana again by breathing in and out through the nose.

Bandhas: Body Locks

We are all in a physical body and because of this we get to learn how to work with our body to connect and channel prana. The body wants to work with you in embracing all of who you are because this union is essentially what you are here for and the Bandhas support your body in connecting, attuning, and flowing to the highest vibratory state available to you at that present moment.

The Bandhas or body locks, are certain combinations of muscle contractions. Each lock functions to change blood circulation, nerve pressure, and the flow of cerebral spinal fluid. The Bandhas also direct the flow of prana (life force) into the main energy channels, or chakras that

line up in the middle of the body from the top of the head to the pelvic area and relate to raising the kundalini energy. They help concentrate the body’s energy for use in raising consciousness and self-healing. There are three important locks you need to know: Neck lock, Diaphragm Lock, and Root Lock.

Root Lock (Mula Bandh)

The action of the Root Lock unites the two major energy flows of the body: Prana, the inflowing life source and apana the outflow energy. It is the nature of apana to contract and descend but through the practice of the bandhas you bring the apana up and link it with prana. The Root Lock particularly pulls the apana up and the prana down to mix in the navel. Bandh literally means “bond,” so what we are really doing is bonding the two energies together. The combination generates heat that can release the kundalini energy.

Instructions:

First exhale, then contract the rectum and genitals muscles drawing it in and up, add to that a contraction of the sexual organ. Lastly pull in the navel by drawing back the lower abdomen toward the spine. The rectum and sex organs will be drawn up toward the navel point. The root lock is usually applied at the end of a deep exhalation, and released on the subsequent inhalation. As you inhale, focus on energy moving up the spine; end your inhalation by either concentration on the third-eye point or the crown center.

Diaphragm Lock (Uddiyana Bandh)

The Diaphragm Lock gives a gentle message to the heart muscles. It allows the pranic force to move through the central nerve channel of the spine and up into the neck region. It stimulates the proper functioning of the hypothalamus, pituitary, and adrenal glands. Regular use of the Diaphragm Lock brings youthfulness and a sense of compassion. Use of this lock during chanting enhances the effects.

Instructions:

Sit with a straight spine and exhale out all the breath. Pull the upper abdominal muscles back and up towards the spine, lifting the diaphragm up high into the thorax. Uddiyana bandh is applied on the exhalation. Applying it forcefully on the inhalation can over pressurize the eyes and heart.

Neck Lock (Jalandhara Bandh)

The neck lock helps the thyroid and parathyroid glands to secrete optimally and helps activate the higher functions of the pituitary. When working with Pranyama powerful energy will be generated and as it moves through the channel of the spine and it can meet with some blocks. When this blocking happens, there can sometimes be a quick shift in blood pressure, causing dizziness. This can be avoided by applying the neck lock. Jalandhara bandh is engaged both on the inhalation and the exhalation.

Instructions:

Sitting with a straight spine, exhale completely, and then contract the chin towards the throat. This is a very small movement. Keep the head level, not allowing it to tilt forward. When done correctly it straightens the cervical bones and lengthens the back of the neck allowing the increased flow of pranic energy to travel feely into the head.

The Great Lock (Maha Bandh)

This is the combination of all three locks engaged at the same time. Remember that both the Mula banh and the Uddiyana banda are only engaged with an increaded amount of energy on the exhalation and Jalandhara badh is engaged both on the inhalation and the exhalation. When all the locks are applied, the nerves and glands are rejuvenated.

Mudra

A mudra is a hand position that applies different pressure on certain areas of the hand and fingers. Each area of the hand reflexes to a certain area of the body or brain, and also represents different emotions and behaviors. In Affect a mudra is a technique for giving clear messages to the mind/body energy system.

Prayer Mudra- Pranam Mudra

The positive side of the body (the right side, male, Pingala), and the negative side (left, female, Ida) are neutralized by bringing the palms of the hands together and flat. The position of the knuckles of the thumb- in the notch of the breastbone- is a reflex point for the vagus nerve, one of the major nerves going to the pineal gland up the front of the body. This pressure immediately causes the pineal and the pituitary glands to secrete, creating a resonance in the brain that moves it out of its normal rhythm to a meditative state. This allows one to come from the heart. It is always used when centering oneself in preparing for meditation or yoga.

Instructions:

Bring the palms of the hands together and flat at the center of the chest, heart level. The knuckles of the thumbs are lightly pressed into the slight indentation at the sternum.

Venus Lock Mudra

Venus Lock Mudra derives its name from the fleshy mound at the base of the thumb, which is called venus mound. Pressure is applied to this mound by the thumb of the opposite hand. This mudra channels sexual energy and promotes glandular balance. Holding Venus lock in your lap also allows you to focus and concentrate more easily.

Instructions:

Place the palms facing each other. For a woman, interlace the fingers with the right little finger on the bottom. Place the right thumb into the webbing between the thumb and index finger of the left hand. The tip of the left thumb presses the fleshy mound at the base of the right thumb. The position is reversed for men.

Gian Mudra (Seal of Knowledge)

Gian Mudra increases wisdom and knowledge. It uses the index finger, which is represented by the planet Jupiter- the planet of expansion. It gives you receptivity and calmness. There are two ways to hold gian mudra: active and passive. Active gian mudra has a more active, or projective energy. Passive gian mudra has a more calming, passive energy. Both are beneficial and either one serves in expansion and receptivity just simply through different pathways.

Instructions:

To form active gian mudra, curl the index finger under the thumb so that the fingernail is against the joint of the thumb. The thumb holds its place steady, while the index finger slightly pushes up against the thumb forming the active gian mudra. The other fingers are straight.

To form passive gian mudra, curl the tip of the index finger to the tip of the thumb. The other fingers are straight.

Our Reality is Sound

Everything in our world is a waveform sometimes called a sine-wave pattern. You can look at anything for example a pencil and see it as tiny particles and atoms or you can look at it as vibration, a wave form, or even sound. Both are scientifically proven and valid.

Bell Labratories discovered the wavelength of the Om- the hindu sound of the universe- completely by coincidence. They were the first ones to put up the microwave system around the U.S. and when they went to turn it on they found static in their entire system. You see they chose the wavelength 7.23 centimeters, which is the exact wavelength of Om. They had the static everywhere because the wavelength or sound was coming from everywhere! So they upped it 50,000 times over what they would normally need so that the 7.23-cm wouldn’t interfere.

Mantra

Mantras are sound vibrations used to connect with the higher self. Mantra means mind projection: it is a technical device for regulating the mind. This is based on the belief that everything in the universe is energy. All energy vibrates and each frequency creates a sound. In fact, frequency IS sound. Mantras that are chanted in the sacred language of Sanskirt are one of the fastest ways to create the vibratory union between yourself and the divine because it synchronizes the energy to become one. They can be chanted internally or externally. When chanting them externally you touch the reflex points on the tongue and in the mouth. There are a total of 84 reflex points that are recognized in the science of yoga.

It is also more effective to know the meaning behind what you chant because it brings that energy to your conscious awareness through your thoughts and makes it even more powerful.

Introduction to the Chakras

There are seven centers, known as the chakras for the exchange of energy from the spiritual world to our world. Through the chakras we can tap into higher levels of spiritual awareness, meaning to love rather than hate and accelerate the flow of energy from spirit to matter, from within to without.

The earliest mention of the word chakra comes from the “Vedas” these are the 4 Hindu holy books which date back to 2,500 BC. And before the Vedas societies mystics and yogis passed the wisdom of the chakra system through the spoken word.

Our energy centers operate at subtle levels, vibrating at a rate normally undetectable by the physical eye and brain. In simple terms you can think of the energy centers as receiving and sending stations for the energy that flows to you, through you, and out from you moment by moment. Each one of these energy centers has a unique part to play in the process of daily living and spiritual growth.

The chakras are the points of contact with our being beyond the physical, and yet they mesh with the physical. So when we understand how these energy centers work, we can work with them to bring our body, mind and emotions back into balance with our being and create vitality.

The seven major energy centers are along the spinal column at the base of the spine, midway between the base and the navel, the solar plexus, the heart, the throat, the brow and the top of the head.

The energy of the base of the spine chakra, also known as the first chakra, enables us to connect with the earth and nature and to stay grounded and practical as we master the day-to-day, physical level of existence. The energy of the midway between the base and the navel chakra, also known as the second chakra, governs our sexuality and is where we receive our gut reactions and hunches. Through the solar plexus chakra, also known as the third chakra, we express and master our emotions and desires. Our heart chakra, also known as the fourth chakra, inspires us with compassion and generosity to be love in action. Through the throat center, the fifth chakra, we have access to the tremendous power of the spoken word and communication. Our third eye center, the sixth chakra, enables us to focus, see a situation clearly and tap into the highest truth. And through the crown chakra, also known as the seventh chakra, we engage our intellect; receive those sudden flashes of illumination and ideas.

The position of the 7 chakras coincides approximately with the position of the glands in the endocrine system. The endocrine system is one of the bodies main physical control mechanisms. It is compromised of many glands that are responsible for many different natural chemicals called hormones. These chemical messengers are secreted into the blood stream from specific organs in the body to stimulate or inhibit certain physical processes. The endocrine system along with the autonomic nervous system help maintain optimal health by adjusting levels of hormone secretion to suit special demands.

The same way that the central nervous system consists of the spinal cord leading to the brain, the energetic equivalent is the vertical column within which the 7 chakras are located called the Sushumna nadi. Where as the function of the spinal cord is to relay impulses to and

from the brain and other parts of the body, the Sushumna nadi functions to channel energy from the universal life force to and from the crown to the root chakras. Each chakra is rooted into the Sushumna nadi by both a front and rear aspect.

Each chakra is symbolically depicted as a lotus that has a number of different petals. The more petals the chakra has, the higher it’s frequency or vibration. Each chakra also resonated with a specific life lesson and has a metaphorical representation of energy associated with it such as earth, water, air, ECT.

As each energy center spins, it emanates its own frequency and color. If we could see ourselves on an etheric level, however we would see that the light emanating from each chakra varies in intensity and purity, depending on whether the energy flowing through our chakras is balanced or blocked. The stronger and more pure emanation indicates a strong and balanced flow of energy. The weaker and duller emanations indicate a blocked flow of energy at that chakra.

When we use energy to think, feel or act in ways that are positive, we attract to ourselves more positive energy. And when this energy is flowing freely through our energy centers, we feel healthy, balanced and energetic. When we mold that energy in ways that are not positive, we create mental and emotional toxins that block energy flow. When an energy center is blocked, we can experience fatigue or health problems, emotional imbalances and lethargy.

Every moment energy is flowing to us and every moment we are deciding whether to put a positive or negative spin on it. That energy will return to us. When positive energy returns, we see positive things come into our life and we have vitality. The energy that has a negative spin on it, because we have used it to harm rather than help others and ourselves, also returns to us. In other words you can think of it as karma.

Negative energy is like debris that collects around our seven energy centers, hampering the natural flow of light and vitality through our body’s energy system. Just as physical substances like cholesterol plaque can build up in our arteries and veins, choking off the vital supply of blood, so mental and emotional toxins that collect energetically in and around our chakras inhibit the free flow of energy within us.

Over stimulating a chakra (placing continual stress on it) are created by obsessions related to a chakra issue causing it to swell disportionately when compared to other chakras. Under stimulating it (by ignoring it and letting it become weak) createshrunken chakras which come from having fears about the issue related to that chakra. Or depleting its natural vitality (by unwisely expending its energy) either by being around negative people or situation or from holding negative thoughts about yourself and others can all create blockages in our body’s energetic system.

Since our energy centers are interconnected, what happens in one chakra affects our entire energy system. If even one center is blocked, it can throw the rest of the system off. The condition of our chakras can also impact those we interact with. That is because the energy of our chakras helps create and colors the electromagnetic force field, or aura, that surrounds each of us. This energy field interpenetrates and influences those around us- for better or for worse.

The first, second, and third chakras are sometimes referred to as the lower chakras but they are just as important as the higher chakras. The first three chakras deal mainly with physical needs of the body and basic needs of life. The last five work within the spiritual realms and are rooted in universal consciousness.

Biji Mantra

The Biji mantras are the core sounds that pertain to each chakra. Each chakra has its own unique Biji mantra that clears and energizes that specific chakra to its highest vibration at that moment in time. We will be utilizing the Biji mantas in the chakra dhyana meditation near the end of class.

First Chakra-Mooladhara:

Location: At the base of the spine between the anus and genitals, at the conjunction of 72,000 nerve endings. Its color is red.

Related organs: Bones, skeletal structure, coccygeal nerve plexus, adrenal glands

Function: This chakra works to eliminate solid waste. Its concerns are basic survival and security.

The Muladhara is the foundation of the Vedic chakra pantheon. From here arises the nadis, the subtle energy channels that carry life energy throughout the body. The first chakra is vital in forming out physical and psychological foundation. The Muladhara is associated with the elephant, which carries the seed sound of this chakra that represents being dependable, solid, and persevering. This energy helps us harness and direct the energy needed to endure-and thrive-in life.

Mantra: Lung, which stops our energy from descending beyond our foundation, our first chakra. This sound is generated by the earth element.

Psychologically, the Muladhara chakra regulates out primal needs and physical existence. It is the chakra most closely associated with our physical survival. Here we decide to live or die and how it is that we shall survive or thrive.

In an imbalance of the first chakra, fear, perversion, and insecurity dominate. When balanced, this chakra brings strength and confidence.

Second Chakra-Svadhisthana:

Location: At the third and fourth vertebra and sex organs. Its color is orange.

Function: The second chakra controls sex and reproduction, as well as mental creativity.

Related organs: Sexual organs, bladder, prostate, womb, sacral nerve plexus, kidneys

This chakra initiates the expansion of one’s individuality. Its location at the sexual organs reflects the instinctual need to develop a specific personality, but also to reach out to others. Our psyche seeks to express itself through the second charka. Muladhara, the first chakra, represents

the ground of existence; the second chakra, Svadhisthana, creativity. The crocodile carries the seed sound for this chakra representing the unseen (as in our desires) that lies under water. The watery element of this chakra encourages us to enjoy the rhythms and cycles of life.

Mantra: Vung, which nourishes our body’s fluids. The sound is generated by the element water.

Psychologically, the second chakra encourages the development of our unique personalities, our ability to create and nurture, and our need for love and sweetness. Imbalances in the second chakra bring obsession with sex or unhealthy indulgence in fantasy. When balanced, one is creative, imaginative, energized, and has a balanced sexual life.

Third Chakra-Manipura:

Location: At the navel point where all nerve endings meet. Its color is yellow.

Function: The third chakra controls the fire of digestion. Its primary concerns are those of identity, domain, and judgment.

Related organs: Central nerve plexus, digestive organs, immune system, nervous system, muscles

The Manipura chakra presents itself as a brilliant, luminescent jewel. Elementally associated with fire, it is like a bright sun in the middle of the body and because it is associated with our digestion it reflects our ability to digest and assimilate everything-including thought. The Manipura is associated with the ram who carries the seed sound representing courage and support for moving into the world.

Mantra: Rung, which provides courage and support. The sound is generated by the element fire.

Psychologically, Manipura is the center of our personal power. Within this chakra are the keys to finding balance and deciding how we are going to achieve our dharma, our life purpose, rather than just live out our karma, or past experiences.

When in a state imbalance, the third chakra can manifest as excessive greed or an overwhelming drive for personal power. A weak navel chakra can bring susceptibility to illness. A strong navel can give good physical health. When in balance, it gives the initiative and courage to persevere and accomplish great deeds.

Fourth Chakra-Anahata:

Location: At the “heart center” which is in the center of the chest, not at the physical heart. Its color is green.

Function: The heart center is the balance point between the lower chakras and the higher ones. When the heart chakra becomes active, true love can be experienced. It is the center for kindness, compassion, and selfless acts of giving.

Related organ: Cardiac nerve plexus, respitory and cariac systems, thymus gland

The heart emanates thousands of times more electricity and magnetism than the brain does. Anahata’s central organ, the heart, beats our existence with each pulse, revealing that indeed, all of live is about sound and rhythm. It is here we get to focus on breaking down the barriers between the self and the world; coordinating our own heartbeat with the rhythm of the universe. The antelope leaps with this chakra illustrating the mastery of air, reflecting the passion and joy of being alive. The air element, however, is not considered the “vital breath, but a conveyer of sound and energy. It encourages an understanding of matter outside of everyday concerns.

Mantra: Yung. The seed sound is generated by the element air.

Psychologically, the heart chakra is devoted to love and compassion, as well as other ingredients needed to become truly loving within and outside the self

In an imbalance, acting from emotions can be confused with acting from the heart center. Feelings and emotions are sensory, and stem from the second chakra, whereas the fourth chakra consciously channels those emotions into devotion, and passion into compassion.

Fifth Chakra-Vishuddhi:

Location: At the throat and the color is blue.

Function: The fifth chakra monitors the power and impact of speech. Words that penetrate and project come from a strong fifth chakra.

Related organ: Laryngeal nerve plexus, vocal cords, mouth, throat, ears, thyroid and parathyroid glands

Vishuddhi is the center for communicating our truth to the world. This is the last of the chakras that processes the gross or physical elements. Within its location, we prepare to ascend the ladder of consciousness, to shift into the chakras devoted to spirituality. This chakra is supported by a white elephant, which delivers harmony and grace.

Mantra: Hung, which energizes and harmonizes the throat. The seed sound is generated by ether.

Psychologically, Vishuddhi opens us to higher wisdom, our guides, and our own soul. Here we determine what truths we really want to represent, we can reach our inner dreams and achieve meaningful lives.

An imbalance can result in blunt or highly opinionated communication. In balance, the fifth chakra is concerned with speaking truth in the highest sense.

Sixth Chakra-Ajna:

Location: At the center of the forehead, slightly above the eyebrows. It is sometimes referred to as the “third-eye.” Its color is indigo.

Function: This is where we can “see the unseen, and know the unknown.” It is the center of our sense of intuition, and our direct connection to the infinite source of wisdom.

Related organ: Medulla plexus, pituitary gland, eyes

Solar and lunar energies meet and mix in the sixth chakra. The Ajna dissolves duality, allowing us to stop seeing “good” and “bad,” to cease differentiating between “I” and “you,” until we can accept the greater unity within the cosmos. It is through the Ajna we are provided the opportunity to see everything as sacred and holy. This chakra is not associated with a specific element or animal. Sometimes the Ajna is called the center of the supreme element-the light that generates all other elements.

Mantra: Om, which connects the beginning and ending of all things.

Psychologically, the Ajna relates to our cognitive and sensory faculties. It is here we move beyond concrete and mundane information to formulate abstractions and higher thoughts. We can now discover the true self and set out upon a journey that creates a desirable future.

Frequent activation of the sixth chakra through meditation increases pituitary gland secretion, and allows us to become more intuitive. Being intuitive is not the same as being psychic. Psychic powers use energy from and function through the third chakra, and can therefore be subjective.

Seventh Chakra-Sahasrara: Location: At the top of the skull. The seventh chakra is also referred to as the “Thousand-Pedaled Lotus,” the “Tenth-Gate,” and the “Crown Chakra.” Its color is violet, pastel purple.

Function: This is the highest center located within the body. When the kundalini energy is raised to the seventh chakra, one experiences a state of bliss, a union with the cosmos. It is said that when an enlightened soul leaves the body, it leaves through the seventh chakra.

Moving with Kundalini

Before we move into meditation to awaken the kundalini energy remember that the kundalini energy is feminine in nature so it may have a tendency to want to move in circular directions and then suddenly shift another way. When you are in meditation and you feel your body wants to move feel free to move it. It is almost always very subtle in its movements to again don’t judge but move with the energy and allow your body to feel how you want to move.

Chakra Dhyana

Chakra Dhyana is a very ancient and powerful meditation over 5000 years old. It involves concentration on the various chakras. In doing this meditation one is able to attain a heighten state of being by cleansing and clearing each chakra to its purest potential in that moment of time. It is important to approach this meditation with a child-like demeanor open and unattached to the outcome because everyone’s experience will be different. It is of upmost importance you keep your spine straight so that the flow of kundalini can be free to move throughout your chakras. You may sit in any position that will support you in keeping your spine straight and it is perfectly fine to use a chair. If possible place your hands on your lap with the palms facing the sky in Gian mudra, index fingers gently touching thumbs. If at any time you feel you want more support for the spine you can place the palms of your hands down, lightly cupping the knees until you are able to comfortably maintain Gian mudra. You may also use the Venus mudra if you prefer.

To perform Chakra Dyhana you will wait for the chanting to begin and as you listen to the name of that chakra visualize that chakra on the spot mentioned in the body growing brighter and brighter to its corresponding color. As you focus on this center of your body the Biji mantra is chanted- the Biji mantra represents the pure vibration of that corresponding chakra. You can chant along internally or just listen silently visualizing the cleansing and energizing of that chakra. The Biji mantra will be repeated seven times for each chakra. After each Biji individual mantra is chanted we will then call on the energy of kundalini by chanting kundalini aroharnam, aroharnam means to climb or ascend in sanskirt. As kundalini aroharnam is chanted visualize that chakra being flooding with a bright golden light. As you continue this process through all seven chakras remember to surrender to the moment and be present 100 percent.

Meditation: Chakra Dhyana

We are going to be cultivating the Ujjaya breath, along with the rhythmic engaging of the Bandhas on the exhalation as the biji mantras are chanted.

Instruction:

1. Begin with the Mooladhara chakra, located at the perineum, midway between your anus and genitals.

Say “Om Mooladhara”. Visualize its red color. Slowly repeat "Lang" (pronounced lung) seven times then visualize the chakra turning liquid gold as you say "Kundalini, arohanam" seven

times.

2. The Swadhisthana chakra, located in the genital region or at the base of the spine.

Say "Om Swadhisthana". Visualize its orange color. Say "Vang" (pronounced vung) seven times, and then visualize the chakra turning liquid gold as you say "Kundalini, arohanam" seven times.

3. The Manipura chakra, located at the navel.

Say "Om Sri Mani Padme Hum". Visualize its yellow color. Say "Rang" (pronounced rung) seven times, then visualize the chakra turning liquid gold as you say "Kundalini, arohanam" seven times.

Om: perfection in practicing generosity Mani: pure ethics, tolerance, patiencePadme: perserverance, concentration Hum: practice of wisdom

4. The Anahata chakra, in the center of your chest, your spiritual heart.

Say "Om Anahata". Visualize its green color. Say "Yang" (pronounced yung) seven times, and then visualize the chakra turning liquid gold as you say "Kundalini, arohanam" seven times.

5. The Vishuddhi chakra, located in your throat, at the Adam's apple or the epiglottis.

Say "Om Vishuddhi". Visualize its blue color. Say "Hang" (pronounced hung) seven times, then visualize the chakra turning liquid gold as you say "Kundalini, arohanam" seven times.

6. The Ajna chakra, located between our eyebrows.

Say "Om Ajna". Visualize its indigo blue color. Say "AUM" in a 3-2-1 ratio. "A-A-A-O-O-M" seven times, then visualize the chakra turning liquid gold as you say "Kundalini, arohanam" seven times.

7. The Sahasrara chakra, located at the center of the top of your head.

Say "Om Sahasrara". Visualize its violet purple color. Say "Ogum Satyam Om" seven times, and then visualize the chakra turning liquid gold as you say "Kundalini, arohanam" seven times.

8. Lie Down in Savasana.

Lie down with your eyes closed immediately after the meditation and relax for 10 minutes, or as long as you like. Yoga's Corpse Pose, Savasana, is good for this (eyes closed, on your back with arms loosely to the sides, palms up, legs slightly apart). Let go. Enjoy. Notice the dynamics of the energy in your body as the kundalini flows.

Or you could proceed immediately to:

Parvathi Padma Dhyana

1. Sit with your eyes closed, spine erect but not rigid, in any position that is comfortable for you.

2. Visualize a golden lotus at the Sahasrara (crown of your head), with a stem going down to the Mooladhara Chakra at the perineum (base of your body).

3. As you inhale, visualize a golden liquid flowing up the stem from the Mooladhara towards the lotus in your crown.

4. Hold your breath and visualize the golden energy filling every petal of the lotus.

5. As you exhale feel the energy coursing down through every cell in your body (Feel it flood your Heart Chakra, your lower belly, your hands & your feet).

6. Repeat the cycle at least 7 times.

The energy can also be exhaled all the way down through the feet into the earth, down into the core of the planet and out to all the sentient beings living on the earth, turning the entire world golden. Then one would inhale from the earth up through the soles of the feet to the crown (and through the crown into the heavens) and exhale down from the crown through the feet into the earth. This is very powerful, uniting heaven and earth and bringing healing and transformation to the planet and to all living creatures on the earth.