In the writings of authors such as Hitoshi Yōga and Sōichirō Kōtō of the Sen'dō school, the concept of "Shō-ten" (minor circulation) appears as a fundamental practice, which involves channeling energy through various parts of the body like a line. The basic method is to move energy along the body's central axis, from the back up and down the front. However, there is also a stage where, by channeling a larger amount of energy, the body doesn't just have energy flowing through specific routes, but the entire body radiates a luminous energy.

There is a stage called "Dai-ten" (major circulation) beyond that. However, when comparing descriptions in books, there have been times when I felt like I was at the entrance to that stage. Now, it seems that I have finally reached a stage where I am approaching the completion of Shō-ten or the whole-body circulation, and I have not yet reached Dai-ten.

At the current stage, energy has just begun to flow through various parts of the body. In particular, the head was previously only channeling energy through specific points, not the entire area. It is still not complete, but at least, it is significantly different from the previous state.

My understanding of Kundalini energy has also changed. Kundalini is often interpreted as rising along the spine, but even if it does rise once, it is only temporary. While it can serve as a trigger for energy to flow, if the energy channel cannot be continuously opened and maintained, it can become unstable and lead to Kundalini syndrome.

Therefore, a certain sentence that people in the Theosophy system often quote is true.

- "It (Kundalini) gives liberation to yogis, but binds fools." ("The Esoteric Science of the Asteroids, Vol. 1, The Etheric Body" by Arthur E. Powell)
- "The awakening of Kundalini gives liberation to yogis, but gives the fool the chains of suffering." ("The Chakras" by C.W. Leadbeater)

This appears to be based on verse 107 (or 106, depending on the version) of the third chapter of the Hatha Yoga Pradipika. The original text states the following:

- "Kundalini Shakti sleeps above the Kundalini. This is a cause of liberation for yogis, but a cause of bondage for fools." (Translation of Chapter 3, paragraph 106, from "Yoga Honpon Kyohon" by Tsruji Sabo.)
- "Kundalini Shakti sleeps above the Kundalini (the place near the navel where nadis join and separate). It gives liberation to the yogi, and bondage to the fool." (From "Hatha Yoga Pradipika" by Swami Vishnu-Devananda.)
- "Kundalini Shakti sleeps above the Kundalini. This Shakti is a means of liberation for the yogi, but a cause of bondage for the ignorant." (From "Hatha Yoga Pradipika" by Swami Muktibodhananda, supervised by Swami Satyananda Saraswati.)

In order to awaken Kundalini, it is important that each part of the body is purified and that energy channels are present. However, it can also awaken suddenly before this process is complete. Even without practice, dormant energy can be temporarily awakened by stimulation or experience.

If the body does not have a suitable vessel to contain the energy, it can be dangerous. Therefore, it is considered safe for Kundalini to be activated after the completion of the Small Circulation and the entire body circulation. If it awakens before this, it is desirable to receive proper guidance and be cared for in a safe environment.

Many yoga-related organizations consider Kundalini to be a dangerous phenomenon, which is likely due to the historical prevalence of people who experienced mental confusion. The fact that people who cannot properly handle energy may face suffering is consistent with the teachings of the Hatha Yoga Pradipika.

Therefore, the first goal should be to achieve the state of the Small Circulation or the entire body circulation, which is the same stage in any school of thought, and can be achieved through various methods such as meditation, practice, Taoism, and Buddhism.