Kundalini Yoga Vs. Kundalini Activation

First, it's important to understand that Kundalini Yoga and Kundalini Activation are not the same. Kundalini Yoga aims to gradually increase the capacity of the nervous system to hold higher levels of energy in the body, allowing Kundalini, or life force energy, to rise from the base of the spine. This can only happen if the energy pathways are clear and the chakras are balanced.Many people I encounter have a limited understanding of what Kundalini Yoga truly is. The term “Kundalini” has become part of modern new age vocabulary, leading some to believe they understand Kundalini Yoga when, in fact, their perceptions are often mistaken.

Kundalini, which means “coiled serpent,” represents the life force energy that resides at the base of the spine. When activated and the energy channels are clear, this energy can rise through the body. Kundalini Yoga is a powerful spiritual practice that was brought to the West by Yogi Bhajan. He was trained in ancient knowledge and practices related to Kundalini Yoga and Tantra, which he then shared with a wider audience.
The origins of Kundalini Yoga are ancient, with roots in the Tantric traditions of India and it shares some common principles with Hatha Yoga. It has been practiced for thousands of years, primarily within certain sects of Hinduism and Sikhism. However, it was largely kept secret and passed down through select lineages until the 20th century when Yogi Bhajan began teaching it openly in the West.

In contrast, Kundalini Activation is a more intense and often abrupt awakening of the body’s life force, without properly preparing the body and its systems to handle such energy. This is why “Kundalini rising” can appear so extreme—it’s like forcing open a clogged pipe with intense pressure, causing the system to react violently.

There are also teachers who have developed their own versions of Kundalini Yoga, which I personally advise against. Kundalini Yoga has a reputation for being “dangerous” because it is a powerful technology. The Kriyas were meticulously transcribed by Yogi Bhajan’s students for a reason: it’s crucial to activate the energy centers in a specific order. When you follow the teachings and instructions properly, there is little to worry about. However, I feel uneasy when I hear about people altering the postures, sequences, or skipping the Adi Mantra and Mangalacharan Mantra, which are essential for tuning in and for protection.

Many of these teachers make such adjustments to symbolize their disagreement with Yogi Bhajan’s immoral actions. While atrocities were indeed committed, the sacred knowledge passed down through him by elders and the golden chain of teachers should be considered separately from his actions. Inventing a new form of Kundalini technology would not only be arrogant but also very dangerous for students.

When it comes to Kundalini Yoga, in my view the knowledge is naturally evolving through the teachers' unique perspectives, experiencies and personality. I think the trunk of the tree doesn't need to be changed, but the branches absolutely can and inevitably will.

It is up to every single one of us to pick a teacher whom we trust and resonates with us, and that is the beauty that there can be a diversity of teachers who will speak to different individuals. And ultimately, with me expressing what I believe to be true, I will attract the people that resonate with that.

Ultimately, the choice of what to practice and with whom is yours, but I strongly encourage everyone to make an informed decision.