The ancient knowledge of energies:
In the previous article, we discussed the Trishikhibrahmana Upanishad. In this article, we will discuss Yogachudamani Upanishad.
Out of twenty Yoga Upanishads, seventeen are part of either Yajurveda or Atharvaveda. Only three are part of Samaveda; i.e., Dhyanabindu Upanishad, Yogachudamani Upanishad and Darshana Upanishad. Which means in ancient times, Rishis could sing this Upanishad. However, the such ancient knowledge is now forever lost.
This Upanishad is notable for its bold discussion on bodily energy and material pleasure. It aims to establish that spiritual realm can be accessed through physical realm.
Kundalini Yoga:
The teachings in the Upanishad contains core ideas for Kundalini Yoga.
The development: In ancient Vedic tradition, practical application of Yoga was aimed towards channelising one’s energy, maintaining strong physical body and strengthen the meditative abilities:
Practices of channelising one’s energy – developed into Kundalini Yoga
Practices for maintaining a strong physical body – developed into Hatha Yoga
Meditative techniques – developed into Raja Yoga.
Central ideas: While explaining about Kundalini Yoga, the Yogachudamani Upanishad contemplates on the following concepts which became the base for later development of texts on Kundalini Yoga:
Chakra – Energy centres in the human body. Ex: Muladhara Chakra is an energy centre located near the coccygeal plexus, beneath the sacrum.
Nadi – Channels of energy in the human body. Ex: Sushumna Nadi is the central path of energy in the body which runs along the spinal column.
Prana – Life force which is another dimension of our very breath.
Bandha – Closing of all exits of the body so that we can prevent prana from dissipating and instead direct it upwards along the Sushumna Nadi.
Mudra – Symbolic gesture using mainly the hands and fingers aimed to influence the flow of prana within the body, directing it to specific areas or chakras.
Shanmukhi Mudra:
The Upanishad explains the ancient practice of Shanmukhi Mudra:
1. Assume the (Siddhasana) posture
2. Regulating the orifices of the ears, eyes and nostrils with fingers
3. Keeping all bodily exits closed using bandhas
4. Filling the Prana through his mouth and holding it in the chest, along with the Apana
Importance of Bandha in Kundalini Yoga:
Kundalini Energy: Kundalini Yoga aims to awaken the Kundalini energy, which resides at the base of the spine. Bandhas help to direct this energy upward through the Sushumna Nadi, the central energy channel.
Clears Nadi: help to break through blockages in the nadis (energy channels), allowing Kundalini to rise more freely.
Stabilizer: Kundalini awakening can be a powerful experience, and bandhas help to stabilize the energy flow, preventing it from becoming erratic or overwhelming.
Key takeaways:
– Study Yogachudamani Upanishad and adopt teachings of this Upanishad in your meditative practices.
– If you encounter modern Kundalini Yoga, question its authority and time-tested tradition.
In the next article, we will discuss – “Mandala Brahmana Upanishad”.
Madhwesh K
Vedic Tribe
