Kundalini in Hermetic Philosophy

Serpent Power, Caduceus and Yogic Tradition

© W. Hommel

Apr 28, 2007

"Kundalini" was a popular concept with Hermetic philosophers. It is favored in the West today for its mediation qualities.

What is Kundalini?

"Kundalini" is a Sanskrit word meaning "coiled up like a snake." It refers to the coiled spiritual energy humans store within their bodies. This energy can be released through various techniques of spiritual enlightenment. The concept of kundalini became popular with Western alchemists because it was associated with the caduceus (the staff of the Greek god Hermes). Here, snakes were entwined around Hermes’ staff. Some scholars speculate the caduceus could have been an early symbolic motif used to convey the idea of kundalini.

What Happens to Someone in Kundalini State?

When one transpires into a kundalini state, they are said to experience visions, out of body experiences, loss of feeling or intensity of feeling. One might experience this state for a mere second or two, but it could last much longer. For each individual, this will vary.

Images of Kundalini in Alchemical Texts

Images of kundalini usually portray two snakes, similar to the caduceus staff, wrapped around a person's spine and extending upwards.

How to Reach Kundalini

Some believe kundalini can be reached through a number of yoga-like exercises. These include:

• breathing techniques
• visualizing your inner chakra moving throughout your body, down through your spine
• singing or repeating a certain phrase
• letting go of anxiety or stress (visualizing yourself overcoming them)
• feeling kundalini energy travel up through the base of your spine

Proof of Kundalini Experiences

Some psychologists believe it is possible for people to reach some kind of "kundalini state." In 1932, Carl Jung held a presentation himself on the power of Kundalini. Sometimes these states of mind are compared to the physical Nirvana state: sopadhisesa (Nirvana on earth). To reach sopadhisesa, one must also practice meditation techniques and go through extensive training. It is believed Buddhists monks can have out of body experiences through this procedure. Other psychologists argue however, that these altared states of reality can harm a person, and should not be practiced. They believe nerve endings can be damaged in the process.

It is important to note that there is no solid proof of kundalini. Kundalini remains a philosophical concept, although mediation practices in Asia have long been practiced. The concept of "chakras" is gaining popularity in the West today, while yoga practices continue to penetrate the mainstream.

Is There a God also by the Name of Kundalini?

Yes. The word kundalini is sometimes interchangeable with a god (when used so, the "k" is capitalized). The god Kundalini is associated with serpents.