One of the most advanced minds of our time, Nikola Tesla, conducted experiments with cosmic energy with the intention of using it as an alternative energy source. He asserted this energetic force could be extracted through the air - with a prime supplier being the sun, and able to be manipulated. One of his inventions demonstrated the use of this cosmic energy, or radiant energy as he termed it, with two conductors charged with opposing negative and positive charges whose meeting causes a device to fire up.

How does this relate to our yoga practice? Particularly with kundalini yoga there are several points of similarity. Through pranayama, our breathing techniques allow us to control the breath through rhythmic inhalation and exhalation. The pranic current is activated - or fired up - along the spinal channel and controlled to achieve our needs. All the techniques in kundalini yoga such as meditation, pranayama, and asanas are used to clear the body's pathways to allow energy to flow smoothly. Like Tesla's invention, we generate heat, our own internal electric current that we are able to circulate (manipulate) through our systems. Firing up this energy is actually firing up the kundalini.

We have the ability to access this without the use of devices or tools, yet as with Nikola Tesla, just a breath of air can get us going. Allow your body to be the conductor for transmuting this energy, and then use it for empowerment.

Recently, I was busy handling some work on the computer when my 7-year-old daughter came up to me grinning and hiding something behind her back. "Look Mommy - my dolls are doing yoga!" She presented two dolls who were positioned in butterfly pose, palms up and smiling. I quickly thought what a great example this was of how yoga really is suited for everyone. My little one continued explaining that one of them had a rough day at work and decided she needed to relax before dinner, (imaginations are awesome, right?) so she wanted to do a little bit of yoga and meditation. "How cool?" I told her while she hopped back across the room to play.

Before starting anything new, many of us of stunt ourselves before we start for reasons such as fear, intimidation, or lack of motivation. Other times there are physical limitations such as time, pain, or poor health. The common denominator in working through these issues is committing to their elimination. Guess what? Beginning a regular routine for yoga or meditation can help you build up your focus, vitality, and general sense of self. Stressed? Judgmental of yourself or others? Feeling weak, foggy, or unwell? Commit and be consistent about the work you do on yourself and you'll be motivated to find the time to address the pain, kick fear in the gut, and maintain good health. Even Barbie and crew are doing it!