Towards a neurophysiological model of kundalini: a theoretical framework informed by preliminary clinical observations
Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience June 10, 2026 Swapan Samanta, Nirmal Sultania, Mukul Roychoudhury et al.
A theoretical model proposes that kundalini, described in yogic literature as a transformative psychophysiological process, may correspond to measurable neurophysiological states of autonomic integration. Preliminary retrospective clinical observations from 404 patients treated for autonomic dysregulation, sleep disturbance, and attentional dysfunction showed patterns of improved heart rate variability, cortisol rhythm restoration, and attentional stability. These patterns followed a four-stage sequence tracked by a proposed neural dispersion index: fragmentation, dormant baseline, progressive integration, and threshold coherence. The model generates four falsifiable predictions but requires formal prospective investigation before clinical conclusions can be drawn.