An Introduction to the Chakras
Many of us approach yoga from the pure physical opening. I know that I did. When I first started yoga, 13 years ago, I had a specific aim – to stretch my body and decrease the pain in my body. I am happy to say that it worked. The journey to the release was a lovely, bumpy and interesting one! I realized that the physical pain was connected to my emotions, my thoughts, my worries and all of the layers of pain that I had shoved down into my body. It was a foreign concept to me.
As a physician, 10 years of medical school did not give me this awareness. I had no idea that the pain someone is experiencing in their life was actually connected to their emotions. Yoga was truly life transforming. I had no idea that this information was even available.
When we look at the chakra system – the energy centers – we can see that this knowledge is actually documented and well studied. It is only in our Western Medical domain that we do not give credence to this beautiful, awe-inspiring study.
The chakra system or energy centers in our body often become blocked by long held tension and low self-esteem. Physical postures have been well studied that correspond to each chakra and when done regularly can release the block from the body. As a result, we are able to live free of these old fears that are often stagnating our life.
The 7 chakras are believed to be arranged in a vertical line from the base of the spine to the top of the head. Chakra is a Sanskrit word which means wheel and these wheels are believed to spin. Each chakra is actually associated with biological functions in our body.
Through understanding the chakra system, we can se that our external life and internal habits, life limiting concepts, self-esteem and chronic mental tension can produce imbalances in our chakras. When left over a period of time, these chakras do not spin as they should. As a result, if the imbalance is left it can result in an actual physical disease and dysfunction.
Chakras can be rebalanced through regular practice of yoga postures and meditation. This allows the energy to balance and allows any energy to clear.
Personally, I have seen the amazing affects of yoga and meditation on clearing many diseases, including thyroid disease, depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, stomach ulcers, chronic physical pain and more.
The practice of yoga is truly amazing and mind-boggling. Such an ancient art of healing has been well studied and documented in ancient texts. Western Medicine has its role, especially with the acute ailments.
If, however, you suffer from a chronic disease, it is more than likely related to an imbalance in your chakras that started many years ago. Regular practice can actually release and allow your body to step into its natural way of being.
Bottom line: role out your yoga mat, rain or shine, and practice. You will be glad you did!
Spiritual Cleansing Baths for Healing Your Aura
Regularly cleansing your aura and personal energy is an essential act. Whether or not you know it, you come into contact with various people and environments, all of which have their own energy vibrations. Not all of these frequencies are high and positive.
Thus, your energy field is constantly taking in and putting out vibrations. Some energy vibrations within your thoughts and external influences are low and will bring you down if left unchecked. While our energy body is constantly readjusting itself to bring our energy back into harmony, the negative energies can linger and build up over time. A monthly salt water bath is an easy and very relaxing way to cleanse your aura of negative energy.
We’ve mentioned other methods before, so why a bath? It’s because it’s a great ritual that combines to tie in body and spirit. When you immerse yourself in a ritual bath, you are participating in an initiation to open yourself up spiritually.
Ritual bathing cleanses you from physical and spiritual grime, thus purifying both your body and your aura. It signifies that you are willing to listen to your Higher Self and begin to trust something outside of your rational mind. It indicates that you are open to asking the universe to transform what you believe needs to be changed within yourself.
What is a Spiritual Bath?
We’ve mentioned other methods before, so why a bath? It’s because it’s a great ritual that combines body and spirit. When you immerse yourself in a ritual bath, you are participating in an initiation to open yourself up spiritually.
Ritual bathing cleanses you from physical grime and negative spiritual grime, thus purifying both your body and your aura. It is a signal that you are willing to listen to your Higher Self and begin to trust something outside of your rational mind. It indicates that you are open to asking the universe to transform what you believe needs to be changed within yourself.
How to Take a Spiritual Bath
Taking a spiritual bath is a sacred and rejuvenating practice that can help cleanse your aura and release negative energy while promoting inner peace and well-being. To begin, start by selecting a time when you can have uninterrupted solitude. This first bath is to be used only once a month, as it is very strong. It’s recommended to try it on a Friday close to a full moon for the best results. Energy therapist Lidia Frederico also advises, “DO NOT prepare or have the bath around 6 am, 12 noon, 6 pm, or 12 midnight, including half an hour before and afterward (so NOT between 5:30-6:30 or 11:30-12:30 for both am & pm)!”
Draw a warm bath. Then, add bath ingredients like unrefined salts, optional essential oils (such as lavender or sage), and optional herbs like rosemary or chamomile, which are known for their purifying properties. As you fill the tub, set your intention for the bath, focusing on what you wish to release or manifest. Before getting in, light some candles and play soothing music to create a serene atmosphere.
Step into the water mindfully, immersing yourself completely while envisioning the negative energy dissolving and being replaced by positive vibrations. Take deep breaths, meditate, or recite affirmations to enhance the bath experience. After your bath, allow yourself to air-dry (preferably) or use a robe and towel (just for your head), and dispose of any bathwater down the drain. Feel the newfound sense of clarity and renewal that a spiritual bath can provide, embracing the positive energy that surrounds you.
Benefits of Spiritual Bathing
Though they are different, spiritual bathing or ritual bathing can have great effects on your physical well-being, as well. Here are just a few benefits:
- The skin is an organ of elimination, and a saltwater soak will draw toxins and heavy metals from the tissues.
- The essential trace minerals your body needs are absorbed through the skin to improve health.
- Skin conditions can be aided as bacteria and other debris are also drawn from the skin, leaving the skin feeling fresh and rejuvenated.
- Saltwater baths can help relieve muscular aches and pains as well as sore joints
- Circulation is increased, which your body can always use