The Nath Kundalini Mantra belongs to the Nath tradition, a Shaiva lineage founded by Matsyendranath and Gorakhnath. This mantra is used for the awakening of Kundalini Shakti, the dormant serpent power coiled at the base of the spine. According to the *Hatha Yoga Pradipika* (3.105-110), Kundalini is the key to liberation, and its arousal is achieved through specific mantras and practices.
The Nath tradition emphasizes the activation of Kundalini through the sushumna nadi, the central channel, leading to the opening of the chakras and the ascent of consciousness. The beej-akshara (seed syllable) often associated with this mantra is 'Hreem' or 'Kleem', representing the union of Shiva and Shakti. The *Shiva Samhita* (5.56-60) describes the process of Kundalini awakening through mantra repetition and pranayama.
The traditional purpose of this mantra is to purify the nadis, balance the chakras, and achieve samadhi. It is chanted during meditation, especially in the early morning or at night, with a minimum of 108 repetitions per session. Practitioners are advised to perform the chanting under the guidance of a qualified guru, as improper practice can lead to physical or mental imbalances.
The mantra is also used in tantric rituals for spiritual evolution and the attainment of siddhis (supernatural powers). The Nath tradition holds that regular chanting of this mantra, combined with asana and pranayama, awakens the serpent power and leads to the ultimate realization of non-duality.
Salutations to the serpent power, with the seed syllables Hrīṁ and Klīṁ.
Contains two seed syllables: Hrīṁ (associated with Maya/Shakti) and Klīṁ (associated with Kama/attraction), invoking the union of Shiva and Shakti for Kundalini awakening.