Kundalini is the vital force within our body that keeps us alive. It is the consciousness that separates us from the animalistic world, where emotions like love, hatred, and compassion arise. However, it remains dormant in most of us, and upon awakening, we achieve oneness with the Supreme God or enlightenment. According to our scriptures, there are many ways to awaken this force, but it can take lifetimes to achieve. In today's world, human beings are often not capable of sustaining the rigorous yogic exercises, behavioral discipline, and long hours of meditation required. However, by the grace of a Guru, it can awaken. 

 Prana, or breath, is the essence of life. When we breathe, we are not just inhaling oxygen; we are also taking in prana—the ether or life force. This ether acts as a bridge between the body and soul, with oxygen merely serving as its carrier. While medical science recognizes oxygen as essential for the body's physiological processes, the true essence of breathing lies in prana. During natural death, it is the absence of prana in the breath that causes the soul to leave the body. To transcend from identifying ourselves with the body to realizing the soul, our ancestral saint, Maharishi Patanjali, discovered pranayama, or breathing exercises. There are many types of pranayama, some of which are: 

• Bhastrika Pranayama (Chaotic Breathing): Forcefully and rapidly inhaling and exhaling is known as Bhastrika Pranayama. This practice is highly beneficial for Kundalini awakening and uplifting the life force. It refines both the physical and mental bodies, enhancing spiritual progress quickly. It should only be practiced after learning from a Guru.
• Anulom Vilom Pranayama: Inhaling through one nostril and exhaling through the other, and vice versa, is called Anulom Vilom Pranayama. This pranayama can be practiced by anyone.
• Kapalbhati Pranayama: This involves exhaling from the belly with a mild jerk. It is excellent for improving metabolism.
• Gunjan Kriya: Chanting "Om" with the mouth closed and feeling the vibration from the throat within the body is known as Gunjan Kriya. It helps to relieve mental tension and calm the mind.
• Tratak: Gazing at a point (Shakti Chakra) without blinking is called Tratak. During this practice, when the eyes start to water, one should stop for the day. Initially, it may last 1 to 2 minutes, but with practice, the duration can increase. This exercise is beneficial for mental focus, material well-being, and spiritual enhancement.
• Neti Kriya: Inserting a cotton or rubber thread (available in the market) through the nostril and pulling it out from the mouth is called Neti Kriya. It cleanses and refines the senses.
  
  

 At Nikhil Jyoti Ashram, we are deeply rooted in a rich lineage of spiritual masters who have dedicated their lives to the pursuit of truth and the upliftment of humanity. Our heritage is a tapestry woven with wisdom, compassion, and ancient knowledge passed down through generations. 

 As the cornerstone of our lineage, Swami Nikhileswranand Ji Maharaj was a master of exceptional proficiency in mantra, tantra, yantra, astrology, hypnotism, Ayurveda, and the ancient sciences of India. A disciple of Siddhashram controller Pujya Paramhans Swami Sachhidanand Ji Maharaj, he played a crucial role in the renaissance of these sciences, akin to the contributions of Shankaracharya and Guru GorakhNath in ancient times. His teachings transcend mere words, embodying the essence of divine wisdom. 

 A devoted disciple of Pujya Gurudev Dr. Narayan Datt Shrimali, Swami Trilokanand was a master of Pranayama, yoga, and Mudra. His approach was characterized by simplicity, ensuring that spiritual teachings were accessible to all. An uncommon man in common attire, he concealed his greatness under a veil of humility, making it easy for even his neighbors to overlook his profound wisdom. I had the blessing of meeting him in May 2008, and his love and compassion left a lasting impact on my life. 

 Currently guiding our lineage, Pujya Sh. Krishna Malik Ji is a devoted disciple whose mission is to spread the teachings of love and compassion as imparted by his gurus. He embodies the spirit of a practical enlightened master, making spiritual practices approachable for everyone. Working in defense, he harmonizes his professional life with his spiritual commitments, demonstrating that both paths can coexist beautifully.