Kundalini-like experience as psychopathology: A case series and brief review

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.

Automated summary

The Kundalini awakening may mimic mental illness, making it difficult for mental health practitioners to differentiate between the two. While there are benefits to yogic practices in mental health, caution should be exercised, especially with advanced practices.