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ancient yogic depicted the evolution of mankind, and the consciousness
of the individual in particular, as a progression of seven
steps. The seven centers have symbolic locations in the spinal
column. These centers are referred to either as charkas or
lotuses. Chakra means wheel and symbolizes the process of
the movement of life. The lotus, slowly unfolding from a bulb
rooted in mud to a full-blown flower above the water, symbolizes
the development from a primitive to a highly cultivated and
refined being. The chakras are best understood as levels of
consciousness.
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Each
of us, whether aware of it or not, is on the path of evolution
of consciousness. The unaware person, through events that
are very painful, is often incited to get off the merry-go-round
and look for other options. There is more to life than fame,
wealth, reaching the top of the social ladder. |
Because each chakra controls one of the
five senses, the practicing yogi takes great care to develop
each of the senses to its utmost potential, bringing them
all into balance for a smooth interplay of those forces
already inherent in them. This gives the yogi a considerable
advantage over others who have never paid attention to the
senses or considered their development.
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The
ancient teachings tell us that all human actions originate
in the mind. Energy is basically neutral, and each individual
forms and shapes it through the expression of thoughts, speech,
and action empowered by the undercurrents of strong emotions.
Since the charkas are best understood as levels of consciousness,
impurities have to be understood, not as a matter of moralizing,
but of discrimination. Impurities arise from desires, self-gratification,
and self-interest. |
The
system of kundalini was designed to assist those who aspire
to higher consciousness. It must be emphasized, however that
the release of more energy is not the goal. The first goal
is self-development, which is achieved through increasing
self-discipline and refinement. This is the only key that
can permanently unlock the door to expanded consciousness.
In each person there is interplay of forces and interaction
between the charkas. The aim of the yogi is to bring the centers
into harmony so that there is a balanced and controlled expression
of energy through them. |
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It
is unfortunate that today, when there is a great deal of interest
and discussion about kundalini energy, it is mainly linked
to only one aspect—that of sex. Particularly in the
West, it has become a word and a concept that serves as an
excuse for many things. Attributing events to kundalini energy
and its overwhelming power, men and women throw aside sexual
inhibitions and indulge in all sorts of illicit sexual activity.
This is because the path of kundalini has been sufficiently
understood and the groundwork has not been laid. |
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