Kundalini

In the yoga tradition the coiled life energy at the base of the spine.

Kundalini means roughly the coiled one in Sanskrit. In the tantric and yogic tradition it stands for a life energy that rests coiled like a snake at the base of the spine. Through yoga, breathing and meditation that energy could awaken and rise along the spine, through a series of chakras, up to the crown of the head.

The chakras are energy centres, usually seven, each with its own place, colour and theme: from the root chakra, connected with safety and earth, to the crown chakra, connected with unity and insight. The awakening of kundalini is described in the tradition as a deep spiritual process that can lead to liberation, but that must also be carefully guided by an experienced teacher.

In dreams kundalini is often connected with snakes. A snake that rises up, crawls up along your back or coils around you is sometimes read in yogic circles as an image of awakening energy rather than a threat. Dreams of light flowing through your body, of fire or of rising are sometimes interpreted this way too.

At the same time caution is appropriate. Not every snake dream is about kundalini, and the tradition warns against seeking such experiences without guidance. Someone who experiences physical complaints, anxiety or restlessness in daily life should seek ordinary medical or psychological help first. A dream image is not a diagnosis.

On Dreamkin we describe kundalini as an image from the tradition that helps to understand certain dreams, such as dreams about snakes and light. We do not establish that a dream is about energy that is really awakening.