Objective Spirituality
Well, it’s that time of year – the beginning of a new one – when it feels like changes for the better may actually be possible. When it seems like there may be something we can do differently, some way we can improve things a little. Perhaps it’s just a convenient time to make promises to ourselves – New Year’s Resolution time. It doesn’t necessarily mean we’re going to change anything, does it? But what if, with no huge effort on our part other than just a little shift in our point of view, we may dramatically change practically everything for the better? What if we could give ourselves a whole new orientation that would simplify and clarify our experience of life?
My best resolution may be to leave my body (again).
Self-Created Obstacles
Most of our problems, most of the things we wish we could change for ourselves, are obstacles that we’re usually creating ourselves. We all know that already. Problems that pop up again and again and prevent us from reaching what we want or being what we’d like to be. But what might those obstacles look like if they weren’t right in front of us again, blocking our view and dictating our direction? What if we saw them from across the room? Or could look down on them, like a bird looking down from above? They probably would look like nothing much because, in truth, they usually are nothing but the constructions of our human minds.
Our human minds are very insistent mechanisms. They want us to believe everything they say is true. They want us to believe that we are our thoughts. But we’re not. We’re something else. Otherwise, how could we notice how crazy our thoughts can be? How could we say to ourselves I don’t even want to think about that and then not think about that?
You Are Not Your Thoughts
In Hinduism, there is a Sanskrit word sakshi which simply means the witness and it’s a simple idea. It’s an idea that you can assume as your own, because it’s about who you really are – apart from the demands of your rambling thoughts. Sakshi can suddenly shift your perception – your perspective – because it’s the witness that pays little or no mind to your mind. It applies no labels or judgments to what it observes. It’s the simple, pure awareness that looks upon all things with a graceful acceptance, with an objective compassion, as an intuitively analytical eye. Imagine being so cool! Now imagine it a little harder…
I had the mixed (but good) fortune of surviving multiple near-death experiences, and the first was in the classic out-of body motif. I looked down on the auto wreck and witnessed my own body, unconscious and apparently lifeless. Naturally, I suggest you avoid this scenario, but it was instructive. When I think about it now, I engage my memory, but I also engage my imagination – and you can do that, too.
Accessing the Sixth Sense
Imagine yourself outside of your body, being your pure self, unencumbered by the insistent designs and definitions of your mind. From there, you can look down on the limiting definitions your mind imposes on the huge potential of life; the power that’s so easily handed over to your old fears. From that point of view as the objective spiritual entity that you actually are, the world looks much simpler, much clearer. We experience what in Latin is called sub specie aeternitatis, the actual eternal nature of our pure self. The aspect of being that you may think of as an intuitive sixth sense and as a real, spiritual quality that we all as members of the human species possess.
When you identify yourself at that level, where your inner self and the rest of the universe are unified, the problems and obstacles of your life on Earth carry much less weight and power. For example, the guy at work who’s always in your face loses the label antagonist and is observed as simply demonstrating his need to express the demands of his own experience to anyone and everyone – not just to you. In fact, much less seems like it’s happening to you. It’s only happening for you, and because it must.
Becoming a Disembodied Spirit
With this simple change in perspective, you immediately gain a tolerant and empathetic consciousness, an acceptance of people as they are – and of the world – as it is. You are freed from personal expectations because you see them as simply part of the whole, as an inconsequential expression of the moment. This allows you to bring to each moment, and to the world, what you alone can bring to improve things as they are. You no longer have a horse in the race, because you’re watching the race from above with the objectivity of a disembodied spirit. Life becomes more easily acceptable. You can see the shape of every problem, so there’s no problem too large to be overcome.
This condition is a lot like Buddha Mind or Christ Consciousness – in which experiencing a little of either puts you in pretty good company and immediately bestows upon you a whole new definition of success.
A Tourist on Earth
You needn’t be concerned that you may become too detached from your own life or lose the passion you feel you need to inspire yourself. Your new point of view allows you to see your attachments and passions in a much truer context so you may engage them more accordingly. With the spiritual objectivity of sakshi, the size, shape and even origins of your personal obstacles become more apparent so you can see how they’ve fit into your past and how they can be dealt with more effectively as they pop up now. You engage your life as a whole – past, present and future to identify what works, what doesn’t and whom you would like to become.
Imagining that you’re up in the sky witnessing your body and mind (and everyone else’s) actually plants your feet more solidly on the ground. It empowers your actions, your effectiveness and your compassionate consciousness to show up for life with a simpler, clearer presence. Any responsibility can be met. Any obstacle can be dealt with – including those potential catastrophes that may lie just ahead of us all.
In Logion 42 of The (Gnostic) Gospel of Thomas, a rather Zen-like Jesus says, Be passersby, which could certainly stand in for the compassionate spiritual objectivity I’m suggesting – the slightly detached, fully engaged kind of tourist-on-Earth quality that can change our messy struggles into our empowering purpose.
For me, it may be summed up as a New Year’s resolution: I resolve to be a responsible, open-hearted, objective, compassionate witness of – and entirely engaged participant in – the remarkable, indescribable magic of life on this beautiful Earth.
To him who holds in his hands the Great Image (of the invisible Tao), the whole world repairs. – Tao te Ching, 35
About the Author
The 7 Chakras: Their Characteristics and How to Balance Them
Chakras are energy centers in the human body that regulate various aspects of our physical, emotional, and spiritual health. These energy centers play an important role in maintaining overall balance and well-being. In this article, we explore what chakras are, how many there are in the body, and how to keep them balanced.
Table of Contents
- What Are Chakras?
- How Many Chakras Are There in the Body?
- The 7 Main Chakras and Their Meanings
- How to Recognize When My Chakras Are Blocked?
- 7 Practices to Align the Chakras
What Are Chakras?
Chakras are energetic vortices located at different points of the human body. The word “chakra” comes from Sanskrit and means “wheel” or “circle.” These energy centers regulate the flow of vital energy, known as prana, throughout the body, influencing physical, emotional, and spiritual health.
Each chakra is associated with different aspects of life, such as emotions, sexuality, and creativity, spirituality, and physical health. The classical texts of Yoga describe the chakras as spinning wheels of energy, each with a specific element, color, and sound. These characteristics work together to maintain energetic balance in the body, fostering overall well-being.
Chakras act as bridges between the physical, astral, and causal bodies. They transform energy and distribute it through the body via the nadis, or energy channels. Keeping the chakras open and balanced is essential for our health and overall well-being, allowing vital energy to flow freely.
How Many Chakras Are There in the Body?
In the human body, there are seven main chakras located along the spine and up to the crown of the head. Each of these chakras plays a specific role in our overall well-being:
- First chakra: Root chakra (Muladhara)
- Second chakra: Sacral chakra (Swadhisthana)
- Third chakra: Solar plexus chakra (Manipura)
- Fourth chakra: Heart chakra (Anahata)
- Fifth chakra: Throat chakra (Vishuddha)
- Sixth chakra: Third eye chakra (Ajna)
- Seventh chakra: Crown chakra (Sahasrara)
The 7 Main Chakras and Their Meanings
The seven main chakras are connected to different areas of our body and affect our physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Each chakra plays a specific role in maintaining energetic balance within us. Understanding these chakras and their meanings helps us improve our overall well-being.
Root Chakra (Muladhara)
The root chakra, known as Muladhara in Sanskrit, is located at the base of the spine. This chakra is associated with survival, safety, and basic needs such as food and shelter. When the root chakra is balanced, we feel safe and connected to the earth, able to face daily challenges with confidence and stability.
Muladhara is the foundation upon which the balance of the other chakras is built. This chakra is very important for our physical and emotional stability. Practices such as meditation and connecting with nature can help keep the root chakra in harmony.
To activate and balance Muladhara, various tools and practices are used, such as specific crystals and essential oils. These tools help channel energy to the chakra, promoting its harmonization and opening. Knowing and using these elements can be a great help in our journey toward overall well-being.
- Location: in the perineum, between the anus and the genitals.
- Sound: lam.
- Element: earth.
- Colors: red activates it, green calms it.
- Crystals: all red stones (garnet, red jasper, obsidian, smoky quartz).
- Essential oils: patchouli, cedar, clove.
Sacral Chakra (Swadhisthana)
The sacral chakra, known as Swadhisthana in Sanskrit, is located in the tailbone region, just below the navel. This chakra is related to emotions, sexuality, and creativity. Swadhisthana influences our ability to experience pleasure and our emotional interactions with others.
This chakra is also linked to passion and our ability to adapt to change. A balanced Swadhisthana allows us to express our emotions freely and enjoy a healthy sex life. When it is in harmony, it fosters creativity and the ability to fully enjoy life.
To balance the sacral chakra, various practices can be used, such as dancing, art, and meditation focused on emotions. These activities help to unlock and channel creative and emotional energy, allowing it to flow freely.
- Location: just below the navel.
- Sound: vam.
- Element: water.
- Colors: orange activates it, blue calms it.
- Crystals: carnelian, moonstone, amber.
- Essential oils: sandalwood, ylang-ylang, orange.
Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipura)
The solar plexus chakra, known as Manipura, is located in the navel area and governs the solar plexus. This chakra is related to vital energy, personal power, and will. Manipura is the center of our self-esteem and self-confidence.
When the solar plexus chakra is balanced, we feel confident in our abilities and are able to make decisions with determination. The energy of Manipura helps us set clear goals and pursue our dreams with vigor and enthusiasm. It also promotes healthy digestion and metabolism.
The balance of Manipura can be achieved through practices such as breathing exercises, positive affirmations, and physical activities that strengthen the core. These practices help activate the inner fire and maintain strong self-esteem.
- Location: navel area.
- Sound: ram.
- Element: fire.
- Colors: yellow activates it, blue calms it.
- Crystals: citrine, topaz, tiger’s eye.
- Essential oils: lemon, rosemary, ginger.
Heart Chakra (Anahata)
The heart chakra, known as Anahata in Sanskrit, is located at the level of the heart, in the cardiac plexus. This chakra is related to love, compassion, and empathy. Anahata is the center of our highest emotions, such as unconditional love and the ability to forgive.
A balanced heart chakra allows us to love and accept others and ourselves unconditionally. It also facilitates emotional healing and the ability to maintain healthy and harmonious relationships. The energy of Anahata promotes inner peace and emotional balance.
To activate and balance Anahata, it is recommended to practice forgiveness, heart meditation, and the use of specific crystals and essential oils. These practices help to open the heart and foster a greater connection with others.
- Location: at the level of the heart.
- Sound: yam.
- Element: air.
- Colors: green activates it, pink calms it.
- Crystals: rose quartz, jade, emerald.
- Essential oils: rose, lavender, bergamot.
Throat Chakra (Vishuddha)
The throat chakra, known as Vishuddha in Sanskrit, is located behind the throat. This chakra is related to communication, expression, and authenticity. Vishuddha is the center of our ability to express our ideas and feelings clearly and effectively.
When the throat chakra is balanced, we are able to communicate with confidence and clarity. This chakra also influences our ability to listen and understand others. A harmonious Vishuddha promotes sincerity and authenticity in our relationships and self-expression.
To balance Vishuddha, practices such as singing, writing, and throat-focused meditation can be used. These activities help to unblock and channel energy toward open and sincere communication.
- Location: behind the throat.
- Sound: ham.
- Element: ether.
- Colors: blue activates it, white calms it.
- Crystals: aquamarine, lapis lazuli, turquoise.
- Essential oils: eucalyptus, mint, sage.
Third Eye Chakra (Ajna)
The third eye chakra, known as Ajna in Sanskrit, is located in the area between the eyebrows. This chakra is related to intuition, perception, and inner wisdom. Ajna is the center of our ability to see beyond the obvious and connect with our inner wisdom.
When the third eye chakra is balanced, we trust our intuition and are able to see life from a broader perspective. This chakra also facilitates concentration and mental clarity. A harmonious Ajna promotes the ability to visualize and manifest our goals and dreams.
To balance Ajna, it is recommended to practice meditation, visualization, and the use of specific crystals and essential oils. These practices help activate intuition and foster a deeper connection with our inner mind.
- Location: between the eyebrows.
- Sound: om.
- Colors: indigo activates it, yellow calms it.
- Crystals: amethyst, lapis lazuli, sodalite.
- Essential oils: frankincense, myrrh, juniper.
Crown Chakra (Sahasrara)
The crown chakra, known as Sahasrara in Sanskrit, is located above the crown of the head. This chakra is related to spirituality and connection with the divine. Sahasrara is the center of our spiritual connection and our understanding of the universe.
When the crown chakra is balanced, we experience a deep sense of peace and connection with the divine. This chakra also facilitates enlightenment and the expansion of consciousness. A harmonious Sahasrara allows us to transcend worldly concerns and experience a sense of unity with the universe.
To balance Sahasrara, it is recommended to practice meditation, yoga, and other spiritual practices that connect us with our divine essence. These activities help to open and activate this chakra, promoting a greater spiritual connection.
- Location: above the crown of the head.
- Sound: silence.
- Colors: violet activates it, gold calms it.
- Crystals: clear quartz, amethyst, diamond.
- Essential oils: lotus, frankincense, sandalwood.
How to Recognize When My Chakras Are Blocked?
Recognizing if your chakras are blocked is essential to maintaining energetic balance and overall well-being. Blockages in the chakras can manifest in various aspects of physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Below, we describe common signs that may indicate possible blockages in the chakras:
- Recurring physical problems: Unexplained aches, chronic illnesses, or a constant feeling of fatigue can be indicative of blockages in your chakras. Each chakra is associated with different parts of the body and their functions.
- Lack of concentration: You have difficulty focusing and maintaining attention on everyday tasks. This can reflect an imbalance in the upper chakras, affecting your mental clarity.
- Low self-esteem: You experience persistent feelings of insecurity and doubt about your abilities. Self-confidence and self-acceptance may be compromised, indicating a blockage in the lower chakras.
- Difficulty communicating: You find it hard to express your thoughts and emotions clearly and effectively. This can be a sign of a blockage in the throat chakra, affecting your ability to communicate.
- Spiritual disconnection: You feel a lack of purpose or meaning in life and find it hard to connect with your spirituality. The upper chakras, especially the crown chakra, may be blocked, preventing a deep connection with the divine.
- Problems in relationships: You encounter difficulties maintaining healthy and balanced relationships. Empathy, compassion, and the ability to give and receive love may be compromised, indicating blockages in the heart chakra.
7 Practices to Align the Chakras
Aligning the chakras is essential for maintaining a balanced energy flow in the body and promoting overall well-being. There are various practices that can help you harmonize these energy centers and improve your physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Below, we explore seven effective methods to align the chakras and maintain optimal energetic balance.
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Meditation
Meditation is a powerful practice for aligning the chakras, as it helps to center and balance the mind and body. Regular meditation, focusing on each chakra and visualizing its energy flowing freely, can help unblock and harmonize these energy centers. Guided meditation specific to each chakra can also be very beneficial.
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Yoga
Yoga is another effective tool for aligning the chakras, combining physical postures, breathwork, and meditation. Different asanas or yoga postures are designed to open and balance each chakra, promoting a healthy energy flow. Practicing yoga regularly helps maintain physical flexibility and energetic balance.
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Reiki
Reiki is an energetic healing technique that can balance the chakras by channeling universal energy through the practitioner’s hands. During a Reiki session, the practitioner directs energy to the blocked chakras, helping to restore their balance and promote healing. This practice is gentle and non-invasive.
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Nutrition
Consuming foods that correspond to the colors of the chakras can help maintain their energy in harmony. For example, red foods for the root chakra or green foods for the heart chakra can strengthen and balance these energy centers.
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Physical Exercise
Regular physical exercise is essential to keep the chakras balanced. Activities such as walking, swimming, or dancing can stimulate the flow of energy throughout the body. Staying physically active helps release energetic blockages, promoting overall balance in the chakra system.
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Crystals
Crystals are natural tools that can be used to balance the chakras. Each crystal has specific properties that resonate with different chakras. Placing crystals corresponding to each chakra on the body during meditation or carrying them with you can help harmonize and activate these energy centers.
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Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy uses essential oils to balance the chakras through the sense of smell. Inhaling essential oils or applying them to specific points on the body can positively influence the state of the chakras. Each essential oil has properties that can help open and balance the chakras, promoting physical and emotional well-being.
