"Kundalini-like experience as psychopathology: A case series and brief review". (February 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Suchandra, Hari hara; Bojappen, Nandhini; Rajmohan, Priyanka; Phurailatpam, Shivraj; Murali, Lakshmi Priya; Salam Ok, Abdu; Pahuja, Erika; Bhargav, Hemant; Mehta, Urvakhsh M.; Manjunatha, Narayana; Thirthalli, Jagadisha
• Is Part Of: Complementary therapies in clinical practice. Volume 42(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-02
• Subjects: Kundalini yoga -- Mental disorders -- Psychopathology -- Spirituality -- Yoga; Integrative medicine -- Periodicals; Integrative medicine -- Research -- Periodicals; Alternative medicine -- Periodicals; 615.5
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2020.101285
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1744-3881

Abstract

Abstract: Kundalini concept comes from ancient yogic philosophy in which it is believed that certain spiritual practices will cause Kundalini awakening. The phenomenon of Kundalini awakening can sometimes mimic mental illness and results in difficulty for mental health practitioners to distinguish between them. While there are ample literatures suggesting the benefits of yogic practices in mental illness, it is also worth understanding the side effects of these practices, especially if advanced yogic practices are not performed properly with necessary preparations and precautions under the guidance of an expert. In this context, we discuss a series of cases demonstrating altered mental experiences related to Kundalini, from both modern psycho-pathology and traditional yoga view points and try to differentiate severe mental illness from advanced spiritual states perceived after practicing Kundalini yoga. Highlights: We emphasize here that even though yogic practices are ample in mental illness, it is also worth understanding the side effects of the same. This is of paramount importance especially if advanced yogic practices are not performed properly with necessary precautions and preparations, under the guidance of an expert. In this context, we discuss a series of cases demonstrating altered mental experiences related to Kundalini from modern psychopathology and traditional yoga view points. This will guide us to differentiate severe mental illness from advanced spiritual states perceived after practicing Kundalini yoga.