The Nath Kundalini Dhyana Mantra is a meditative invocation central to the Nath tradition of Hatha Yoga and Tantra, primarily associated with the awakening of Kundalini Shakti. The Nath lineage, founded by Adinath (an aspect of Shiva) and systematized by Gorakhnath, emphasizes the direct experience of the serpent power through yogic discipline. This dhyana mantra is not a single fixed verse but a class of contemplative formulas used during meditation on the subtle energy channels (nadis) and chakras. The primary textual source for Nath Kundalini practices is the Hatha Yoga Pradipika (c. 15th century CE), which in chapters 3 and 4 describes the awakening of Kundalini through pranayama, bandhas, and meditation.
Additionally, the Goraksha Samhita, attributed to Gorakhnath, provides detailed instructions on the visualization of Kundalini as a coiled serpent at the muladhara chakra. The mantra often incorporates the beej-akshara 'Hreem' or 'Kleem' to activate the lunar and solar energies, though the Nath tradition favors the silent repetition of 'So'ham' (I am That) during breath awareness. The phoneme 'Nath' itself is a bija for the lineage's protective energy. Traditionally, this mantra is chanted for the purpose of awakening the dormant Kundalini, clearing the sushumna nadi, and attaining samadhi. It is also used to invoke the blessings of Gorakhnath and the Nath gurus for spiritual guidance and protection.
Recommended chanting context includes early morning (brahma muhurta) or midnight, in a seated posture with a straight spine (siddhasana or padmasana). The count is typically 108 repetitions per session, often preceded by asana and pranayama. Practitioners are advised to have a qualified guru's guidance, as premature awakening without proper purification can cause energetic imbalances. The mantra is especially revered during the festival of Guru Purnima and Nath Jayanti. In iconography, the Nath Kundalini is depicted as a coiled serpent around a lingam or as a luminous energy rising through the spine, symbolizing the union of Shiva and Shakti.
Meditative invocation of the serpent power of the Lord.
The Nath tradition often uses 'So'ham' as a silent bija mantra during breath awareness. 'Nātha' itself functions as a lineage bija. In some variants, 'Hrīṃ' or 'Klīṃ' may be added to activate lunar and solar energies.