Chakras and Kundalini Explained — Awakening Energy the Safe and Traditional Way
Quick answer: Chakras are energy centres described in Tantra and Hatha Yoga along the spine, from the base to the crown. Kundalini is the dormant potential energy, pictured as a coiled serpent at the base of the spine, that is said to rise through the central channel (Sushumna) when practice, purification and grace come together. These are subtle-body concepts, not physical organs.
Where do the ideas of chakras and Kundalini come from?
They come from the Tantric and Hatha Yoga traditions, in texts such as the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, the Shiva Samhita and the Kundalini Upanishad. The seven-chakra picture most people know today was shaped by the Sat-Chakra-Nirupana, a 16th-century Tantric text by Purnananda, which Sir John Woodroffe translated as The Serpent Power in 1919. Older texts describe different numbers of chakras, so “seven” is a teaching map, not a fixed anatomy.
What are the seven chakras?
- Muladhara (root, base of the spine): earth, bija mantra Lam. Safety, grounding, stability.
- Svadhisthana (sacral): water, Vam. Creativity, pleasure, emotional flow.
- Manipura (navel): fire, Ram. Willpower, confidence, digestion of experience.
- Anahata (heart): air, Yam. Compassion, love, connection.
- Vishuddha (throat): space, Ham. Truthful expression, listening.
- Ajna (between the eyebrows): light or mind, Om. Intuition, insight, clear seeing.
- Sahasrara (crown): beyond the elements. Silence, unity, transcendence.
What is Kundalini?
Kundalini comes from kundala, meaning coiled. Tradition imagines Shakti, the creative power of the universe, resting like a sleeping serpent at the Muladhara chakra, coiled three and a half times. Through practice she is said to rise through the chakras along the Sushumna nadi and unite with Shiva, pure consciousness, at the crown. This inner union of Shakti and Shiva is the symbolic heart of Kundalini yoga.
Is Kundalini awakening dangerous?
An honest teacher will not sell Kundalini as a thrill. Traditional lineages stress preparation first: ethical living, purification, a steady body and a stable mind. Intense practices done too quickly, or without guidance, may bring sleeplessness, anxiety, overwhelming emotions or strong physical sensations for some people. Slow, grounded, guided practice is the traditional way. If you feel distressed after practice, rest, eat, spend time in nature and speak to a trusted teacher. If the feelings persist, please see a mental health professional.
What are the safe steps to begin?
- Build the base: Follow the yamas and niyamas, sleep well and eat clean food.
- Strengthen body and breath: Gentle asana and simple pranayama come before anything powerful.
- Learn bandhas and kriyas in person: Not from videos alone.
- Add mantra and meditation: Sound and silence refine the mind.
- Seek a guide: A genuine teacher can adapt the practice to you, and the tradition also speaks of Shaktipat.
- Ground yourself after practice: A short walk, warm food and water help.
Frequently asked questions
How many chakras are there?
Most modern teaching names seven main chakras. Tantric texts describe other systems with different numbers, plus many minor centres.
Are chakras scientifically proven?
No. Chakras are concepts from yogic tradition and have not been located in anatomy. Many practitioners find them a useful map for body awareness and emotional reflection.
What does it feel like when Kundalini rises?
Traditions describe warmth, vibration, spontaneous movement, deep stillness or flashes of insight. Experiences vary widely, and many sincere practitioners practice for years without dramatic signs. Do not chase experiences.
What is Shaktipat?
Shaktipat is the transmission of spiritual energy from a teacher to a student in the Vedic and Tantric traditions. Read more in our Shaktipat blog.
Do I need a guru for Kundalini yoga?
Tradition strongly recommends a guide for advanced practices. Beginners can start with gentle foundations in a supported setting.
Begin the journey with guidance
Our Kundalini yoga programme is taught in the Himalayan foothills of Rishikesh. Read our guide to Shaktipat, join the Navratre Special Yoga & Meditation Retreat in the Himalayas, or build a strong base with our 300 Hours Yoga Teacher Training Course. Have questions? Contact us and our team will guide you.
