In words of Ilchi Lee even in the Korean Shin-Sun-Do tradition, only a very few, select individuals were lucky enough to find a teacher to guide them. In this tradition, “Small Universe” is the state in which all of the Chakras are activated, all meridians of the body flow freely, and the mind and body become one. “Great Universe” is the state in which cosmic and bodily energy merge into one continuous and conscious flow, allowing discovery of the True Self.

A similar philosophy is expressed in Kundalini Yoga. This tradition was similarly limited to a very select group of individuals. Kundalini means “life energy coiled in the shape of a snake at the bottom of the spine.” It is said that when the coiled life energy awakens, the energy will travel up the spine through the Chakras and effect a spiritual awakening.

A picture from “Sung-Myung-Ji-Gwe,” a Century book on the practice of Shin-Sun-Do. The pathways of the “Great Universe” – various Dahn-jons or Chakras – are symbolized by drawings of a pot, crescent moon, and stars, among others.