kundalini
UK[ˌkʊn.dəˈliː.ni]US[ˌkʊn.dəˈliː.ni]
n
In Hindu yoga and tantra, a form of primal energy believed to be coiled at the base of the spine, which can be awakened through spiritual practice to lead to higher consciousness.
Etymology
The word 'kundalini' is a direct borrowing from Sanskrit, entering English in the late 19th century through the translation of yogic and tantric texts. Its literal meaning, "the coiled one," is a metaphorical description of the dormant spiritual energy visualized as a serpent coiled at the base of the spine. This imagery powerfully conveys the concept of latent potential, which, when awakened through disciplined practice, is said to uncoil and ascend through the body's energy centers, leading to enlightenment. The term's journey into English reflects the Western engagement with Eastern spiritual philosophies, where it has been adopted as a specific technical term within modern yoga and New Age discourse.
Analysis
This is a loanword from Sanskrit (कुण्डलिनी, kuṇḍalinī), meaning "coiled one" or "she who is coiled." It is derived from the Sanskrit word 'kuṇḍala,' meaning "ring, coil, spiral." It functions as a simplex noun in English, retaining its specialized spiritual meaning.
Examples
The practice aims to awaken the kundalini energy through meditation and specific breathing techniques.
She described feeling a powerful surge of heat moving up her spine during the kundalini yoga session.
Some traditions warn of potential psychological disturbances if kundalini is awakened without proper guidance.