Date of Award

Spring 2022

Access Restriction

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Department

Yoga Studies

School or College

Bellarmine College of Liberal Arts

First Advisor

Christopher Key Chapple

Abstract

The focus of this thesis is to explore “the inner spiritual architecture” (prāṇa, nāḍī, cakra) through the lens of the pañcamayakośa model concerning raising kuṇḍalinī. We will discuss how the components of the “spiritual architecture” are directly influenced by four select techniques (mula bandhā uḍḍīyāna bandhā, jālandhara bandhā, and mahabandā). These are known as bandhās/mudras, which are specific to The Medieval Transformation for raising kuṇḍalinī. Our focus will explore the mechanics of the bandhās and the recorded, effects.

The thesis’s secondary focus is cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Under the traditional lens of the pañcamayakośa model, a comparison will be made between the movement of CSF and the recorded movement kuṇḍalinī when engaging mula bandhā uḍḍīyāna bandhā, jālandhara bandhā, and mahabandā. We will also consider the benefits associated with well-regulated cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow and compare them to the traditional benefits gained with the practice of raising kuṇḍalinī. Finally, our discussion will shift to parallels between a negative kuṇḍalinī experience and irregular CSF flow and an anecdotal account of irregular CSF flow. The conclusion will show how understanding the philosophy and techniques of raising kundalini under the lens of the pañcamayakośa model can provide unique insights regarding function, flow and manipulation of CSF health.

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