Chakra

Sahasra Chakra:
Thought, Universal identity, oriented to self-knowledge - the seventh, highest, chakra is represented by a 1,000 petalled lotus, symbolizing the infinite.


This is the crown chakra that relates to consciousness as pure awareness. It is our connection to the greater world beyond, to a timeless, spaceless place of all-knowing. When developed, this chakra brings us knowledge, wisdom, understanding, spiritual connection, and bliss.





Ajna Chakra:
Light, Archetypal identity, oriented to self-reflection - located in the middle of the forehead, the “third eyes”, as it is often called, has the mantra OM as it’s seed letter.

This chakra is known as the brow chakra or third eye center. It is related to the act of seeing, both physically and intuitively. As such it opens our psychic faculties and our understanding of archetypal levels. When healthy it allows us to see clearly, in effect, letting us "see the big picture."




Vishuddha Chakra:Sound, Creative identity, oriented to self-expression - as the fifth energy center in the astral body, Vishuddha is located at a point corresponding to the base of the throat. The seed mantra of this chakra is HUM.

This is the chakra located in the throat and is thus related to communication and creativity. Here we experience the world symbolically through vibration, such as the vibration of sound representing language.






Anahata Chakra:
Air, Social identity, oriented to self-acceptance - use of the Anahata Chakra, or heart centre, as a focal point for meditation generates such pure qualities as cosmic love. Two triangles, representing Siva and Shakti, contain the mantra YAM.

This chakra is called the heart chakra and is the middle chakra in a system of seven. It is related to love and is the integrator of opposites in the psyche: mind and body, male and female, persona and shadow, ego and unity. A healthy fourth chakra allows us to love deeply, feel compassion, have a deep sense of peace and centeredness.





Manipura Chakra:

Fire, Ego identity, oriented to self-definition - Located at the navel. Manipura corresponds to the solar plexus in the physical body. The downward-pointing triangle contains the mantra RAM.

This chakra is known as the power chakra, located in the solar plexus. It rules our personal power, will, and autonomy, as well as our metabolism. When healthy, this chakra brings us energy, effectiveness, spontaneity, and non-dominating power.





Swadhishtana Chakra:

Water, Emotional identity, oriented to self-gratification -The second chakra, shown with six petals, is situated along the Sushumna in the genital area. A crescent moon contains the mantra VAM.

The second chakra, located in the abdomen, lower back, and sexual organs, is related to the element water, and to emotions and sexuality. It connects us to others through feeling, desire, sensation, and movement. Ideally this chakra brings us fluidity and grace, depth of feeling, sexual fulfillment, and the ability to accept change.




Muladhara Chakra:

Earth, Physical identity, oriented to self-preservation – The lowest chakra, located at the base of the spine, is the resting place of the dormant kundalini (spiritual potential). The chakra’s mantra is LAM.

Located at the base of the spine, this chakra forms our foundation. It represents the element earth, and is therefore related to our survival instincts, and to our sense of grounding and connection to our bodies and the physical plane. Ideally this chakra brings us health, prosperity, security, and dynamic presence.

Calming The Mind

A calming practice bringing increased mental clarity, increased energy levels and greater capacity for contentment.

Calming the mind is naturally associated with the practice of yoga. It describes a state of inner stillness, a feeling of balance and peace that, with regular practice, will radiate from one's daily routine into the everyday world of our busy lives. It is not the purpose of this humble album to explore meditation or subject in this area in any depth, but the following simple practice is one you might like to try while your body is feeling relaxed and alert at the end of the posture sequence. Or it may be practiced on its own.

Make sure your surroundings are comfortable and quiet. Allow 5 to 10 minutes at first. Gradually increase the time to 20 minutes or more, as and when you feel able.

Sit comfortably with a straight back and with legs crossed. Rest the hand slightly on the knees or the thighs. Sitting on a firm pillow or folded blanket can help you to keep your spine straight.

Close your eyes and gently bring your attention inward, away from the external world. Soften the face. Tuck your chin in. Relax your neck and shoulder muscles. Breathe gently and evenly.

Bring your awareness to any thoughts that come into your mind. See if you can simply observe them, letting come, and letting them go, without following them. It's as if your mind is a beautiful, clear blue sky, and your thoughts are small white clouds passing across it. Be patient with yourself. Your mind is used to getting its own way; some days your thoughts may be many and your mind might seem like an overcast sky. By quietly observing the thoughts, they will slow down and become fewer. Be aware of your thoughts, how does the thought affect you mentally, emotionally, physical. Enjoy the spaces between the thoughts. Allow a sense of peace and well-being to expand as your mind clears and becomes quiet.

A word on diet:
Just as daily practice of the physical postures promotes health and wellbeing, a sensible diet enables the body to obtain maximum benefit from the food you eat. Your body needs food to be able to repair itself, and fuel for energy. Simple, natural and wholesome foods that are easily digested will enhance your journey toward radiant physical health.

A healthy diet is one which is enjoyable and nutritious. The primary reason for eating food is to nourish the body and produce life energy. It is abundant in whole "natural" and unprocessed foods. It is especially high in plant foods, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, seed and nuts.

Rather than making a sudden decision to change your eating habits, which might not be easy to maintain, simply listen more closely to your body's need, and alter your diet gradually when you feel ready. A gentle approach to change is often more practical than a hasty one.

Consult a health practitioner for guidance as to the right food requirements for your particular metabolism.