O Divine Mother Kundalini, the Divine Cosmic Energy hidden within us all!
Thou art Kali, Durga, Adisakti, Rajarajeswari, Tripurasundari, Maha-Lakshmi, and Maha-Sarasvati! You have taken on all these names and forms. Manifesting as Prana, electricity, force, magnetism, cohesion, and gravitation in this universe, the whole cosmos rests in Your bosom.
Crores of salutations unto Thee.
O Mother of this world! Guide me to open the Sushumna Nadi and elevate Thee along the Chakras to the Sahasrara Chakra, merging myself with Thee and Thy consort, Lord Siva.
Kundalini Yoga: The Path to Awakening
Kundalini Yoga is the yoga that awakens the Kundalini Shakti and traverses through the six centers of spiritual energy (Shat Chakras), ultimately uniting with Lord Siva at the Sahasrara Chakra, located at the crown of the head.
- This is an exact science known as Laya Yoga.
- The six centers are pierced (Chakra Bheda) as the Kundalini Shakti ascends to the top of the head.
- ‘Kundala’ means ‘coiled’; her form is like a coiled serpent, hence the name Kundalini.
The Quest for Eternal Happiness
All agree that the ultimate aim of man is to secure happiness for himself. The highest and ultimate end is to attain eternal, infinite, unbroken, supreme happiness. This can only be found within one’s own Self or Atman. Therefore, search within to attain this eternal Bliss.
The Unique Potential of Human Beings
Man alone can reason, reflect, and exercise judgment. It is he who can compare, contrast, think of pros and cons, and draw inferences and conclusions. This capability enables him to attain God-consciousness.
"That man who simply eats and drinks without exercising his mental faculty in Self-realisation is only a brute."
Awakening from Ignorance
O worldly-minded persons! Wake up from the sleep of Ajnana (ignorance). Open your eyes and stand up to acquire knowledge of the Atman. Do spiritual Sadhana, awaken the Kundalini Shakti, and achieve the 'sleepless-sleep' (Samadhi). Drown yourself in Atman.
Understanding Chitta and Vrittis
Chitta is the mental substance that takes various forms, known as Vrittis. These transformations or modifications are thought-waves or whirlpools. Countless Vrittis rise and subside in the ocean of Chitta, causing restlessness of mind. These Vrittis arise due to Samskaras and Vasanas.
- Samskaras are latent impressions left in the subconscious mind after Vrittis subside.
- The sum total of Samskaras is known as “Karmasaya” or the receptacle of works, called Sanchita Karma (accumulated works).
Burning Karmas through Knowledge
When a man leaves the physical body, he carries his astral body of 17 Tattvas and the Karmasaya to the mental plane. This Karmasaya is burnt by the highest knowledge obtained through Asamprajnata Samadhi.
"During concentration, you must collect carefully the dissipated rays of the mind."
If all the waves subside, the mind becomes calm and serene, allowing the Yogi to enjoy peace and bliss. Real happiness is found within, achieved through the control of the mind, not through external possessions or achievements.
Purity of Mind in Yoga Practice
- Regulate your conduct when dealing with others.
- Cultivate compassion and avoid jealousy.
- Do not hate sinners.
Success in Yoga will be rapid if you put maximum energy into your practice, have a keen longing for liberation, and intense Vairagya. Sincerity and earnestness are essential.
The Role of Faith and Conduct
Firm faith in Srutis and Shastras, right conduct, service to the Guru, and freedom from lust, anger, Moha, greed, and vanity enable swift attainment of Samadhi.
"Just as fire burns a heap of dried leaves, so the fire of Yoga burns all Karmas."
Achieving Kaivalya through Samadhi
Through Samadhi, the Yogi attains Kaivalya. Real knowledge flashes within him in an instant. The practice of Hatha Yogic Kriyas keeps the body healthy but is not the ultimate goal. Dhyana (meditation) culminates in Samadhi and Self-realisation.
Beware of Siddhis
Various Siddhis (supernatural powers) may be acquired through Yogic practices, but they are hindrances to Realisation. The Yogi should focus on Self-realisation, not on Siddhis.
Navigating the Path of Yoga
- Ascend the path of Yoga cautiously.
- Remove the obstacles of name, fame, and subtle lust.
- Avoid attachment to family, money, disciples, or Ashrams.
Final Goal: Nirvikalpa Samadhi
Nirvikalpa is the state of superconsciousness where all mental activities cease. The aspirant rests in Atman, experiencing supreme peace and infinite, indescribable bliss.
When Kundalini reaches the Sahasrara and unites with Lord Siva, perfect Samadhi ensues. The Yogic student drinks the Nectar of Immortality and reaches the Goal.
Glory to Mother Kundalini! May Her blessings be upon you all!
Om Shantih! Shantih! Shantih!