Energy, Awareness & Spiritual Connection: A Universal Approach

A Hatha Yoga & Mindfulness Perspective

Today in class, we practiced Seated Torso Circles—also known as the Kundalini Circle, Sufi Grind, or Mortar and Pestle. Different names for the same movement, reminding us that while terminology varies, the experience of connecting inward is universal.

I encourage each person to connect with their own spiritual center—whether that’s Mother Nature, God, Source, Higher Self, or an ideal like Compassion or Truth. Not because all paths are the same, but because practice should meet you where you are and honor your personal journey.

This openness extends to discussions of energy. Some traditions speak of Kundalini rising, others of Qi flow, others of the Holy Spirit descending. While they are not identical, they share a fundamental essence: presence, balance, and harmony within body and spirit.

The goal is not to force an experience but to allow practice to unfold in a way that resonates with you.

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I. My Role as a Teacher & Setting Clear Intentions

I am a Hatha yoga and mindfulness teacher—not a Kundalini master, spiritual guru, or advocate for “raising” Kundalini. That path is profound, complex, and requires dedicated guidance.

That said, since energy often arises in practice, my approach is to:

• Acknowledge its place in yoga and spiritual growth
• Explore where traditions overlap—without forcing sameness
• Encourage self-inquiry and ethical alignment
• Guide students toward awareness, not power-seeking

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II. What Is Kundalini? (Brief Overview & Further Study)

Kundalini is a sacred force in Indian yoga philosophy, often symbolized as a coiled serpent at the base of the spine. When awakened, it rises through the chakras, leading to deep transformation.

Modern interpretations sometimes reduce Kundalini to an “energy force,” but in authentic tradition, it is a spiritual unfolding that requires preparation, ethical living, and expert guidance.

For deeper study, I recommend Joan Shivarpita Harrigan, Ph.D. at kundalinicare.com for insights into Kundalini Science (Kundalini Vidya).

Takeaway: Kundalini is not something to be “turned on” but a sacred process that unfolds naturally when the conditions are right.

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III. Energy in Other Traditions: Parallels & Overlaps

While Kundalini is unique to Indian philosophy, many traditions describe energy movement in different ways:

Rising Energy (Awakening from Below)

• Kundalini (Hindu Yoga & Tantra): Rises through Sushumna Nadi, awakening higher consciousness.
• Shamanic Traditions: Earth energy moves upward through the body in trance states.

Descending Energy (Grace & Spiritual Infusion)

• The Holy Spirit (Christianity): Descends from above, filling the body with divine presence.
• Shekinah (Jewish Mysticism): The Divine Feminine descending to dwell within and among people.

Circulating Energy (Balance & Harmony)

• Taoist Qi Gong & Microcosmic Orbit: Energy moves in a loop, refining balance.
• Kabbalistic Tree of Life: Energy moves up and down the Sefirot, uniting divine and earthly experience.

Takeaway: Though traditions describe energy differently, they all point toward a common truth—deepening connection with self, the divine, or the universe. Trust what feels true to you.

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IV. Discernment & Ethical Alignment: The Right-Hand Path

Before engaging in energy work, ask: Why am I doing this?

Pitfalls of Power-Seeking & Ego-Driven Spirituality

• Seeking energy work for control, power, or abilities can lead to distortion.
• Many traditions warn of ego traps, spiritual bypassing, and harm when approached with selfish intent.
• True spiritual growth is about alignment with love, wisdom, and truth—not acquiring power.

The Loving Creator Test:

Is this what I want, or what a Loving Creator would want for creation?

Takeaway: Energy work is not about gaining power—it is about connection, balance, and service to the highest good.

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V. Practical Application: Mindfulness, Breath & Self-Inquiry

Gentle, Sustainable Ways to Cultivate Awareness:

• Mindfulness & Zen Approach: Sit, align the spine, lower the eyes, rest your hands in your lap, and breathe. What arises will come and go—simply observe.
• Breathwork: Simple, natural pranayama (without forcing).
• Self-Inquiry: Ask, What is arising within me?
• Respect & Patience: If energy moves, it moves. If it doesn’t, it doesn’t. No forcing.

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VI. Final Thought: Many Paths, One Truth

Energy moves in many ways. Different traditions describe it differently. But ultimately, it is not the technique that matters—it is the heart, alignment, and discernment we bring to the path.

Choose what resonates. Follow what cultivates love, clarity, and balance. And above all, trust your inner guidance.