Manipra Chakra

Mani = pearl, jewel Pra = place, city

After we have passed through the levels of unconscious and subconscious the
Mldhra Chakra and the Svdishthna Chakra our consciousness reaches the
third level, the Manipra Chakra. With the realisation of the Manipra Chakra the
aspirant has reached an important stage on the spiritual path. For once the
consciousness has unfolded in the Manipra Chakra there is a greater likelihood that
under the guidance of a Realised Master one can attain the goal of Supreme
Consciousness in this lifetime. At the Manipra Chakra more than of half the journey
towards realisation has already been completed.
The position of the Manipra Chakra is in the middle of the abdomen behind the
navel; this is why it is also known as the Navel Centre. More precisely speaking, its
area of influence radiates out about 7cm above and below the navel. Its counterpart
in the body is the Solar Plexus.
The Manipra Chakra is the City of Jewels in which we find the pearls of clarity,
wisdom, self-confidence and wellbeing. Their lustre radiates down to the lower
Chakras as well as up to the Heart Centre (Anhata Chakra). The feelings of love and
happiness that we feel in our heart actually originate in the Manipra Chakra and
rise from there to the Anhata Chakra. The positive radiance emanating from the
Manipra Chakra also purifies the Svdhishthna and Mldhra Chakras and their
qualities.
Passion becomes pure selfless love; through the light of wisdom, prejudice and
aversion change to respect and understanding; and envy and insatiable greed change
to goodwill and healthy moderation. With the gaining of self-confidence, pride and
jealousy change to modesty and generosity, ignorance changes into clarity, and
laziness into focussed, consistent effort.
As already said for the Mldhra and Svdhishthna Chakras, the simultaneous
activation of the gy Chakra (Eyebrow Centre) is a great help on the spiritual path.
This is also the case here. The beneficial qualities of the Manipra Chakra can only
reach perfection in conjunction with the gy Chakra, because when we depend only
on the inspiration of one of them we can easily become confused.
Decisions that are based only upon the Manipra Chakra, the so-called gut-
feelings, are often intuitively correct, but can be distorted by strong emotions and
therefore be irrational. And judgements based only on intellect lack complete and
integrated vision. Therefore both Chakras are important for clarity of purpose; with
the right feeling of the Manipra Chakra being guided and examined by Viveka
(discrimination), a quality of the gy Chakra.
Self-awareness and self-confidence are other pearls of the Manipra Chakra. Until
we discover these pearls within us and raise them into the light we live in constant
fear fear that we will not be loved, that we will be a failure, fear of becoming ill, of
dying, etc. Many of our fears are produced by blockages in the Manipra Chakra.
The Manipra Chakra is closely connected to the psyche. Psychic problems
frequently give rise to digestive problems. For example, many people react to fear or
stressful situations with abdominal pain or diarrhoea.
The Tattva (element) of the Manipra Chakra is TEJAS (fire), and therefore this
Chakra is also known as the Fire or Sun Centre. The Fire Element manifests within
the body as body heat. The Manipra Chakra controls our energy balance and
supplies the digestive organs with energy. When it fans and regulates the digestive
fire it also makes an important contribution to a stable and healthy constitution.
The Manipra Chakra is also described as the Cosmic Door because it provides an
entry for numerous astral powers. It is the centre of the HARA , a power centre or
Lions Centre that bestows upon us balance, stability, strength and activity. It
works as an energy transformer that converts and supplies the body with the cosmic
energy (Prna) that is absorbed with our food.
On the physical level the function of this Chakra is similar to that of a fireplace.
When we put wood into the grate the flames are fed; but when the wood is almost
gone the fire will gradually die. The firewood for our digestive fire (Jathargni) is
the food that we eat. Foods that have a strong, positive vibration are grains, nuts,
fruit and vegetables. So just as bad wood does not burn well, food of a lesser quality
also generates less power and poorer health; and heated reactions such as rage,
anger and aggression also draw energy from the Manipra Chakra and as a result
weaken it.
A good fireplace will provide heat for a long time without constantly having to put on
more wood; but a badly functioning fireplace does not heat as well and will cool
down as soon as the fuel begins to run low. When the energy of our food is not
properly absorbed, utilised and distributed in the Manipra Chakra we feel tired,
weak and ill, but with an active Manipra Chakra the body is provided with sufficient
energy, even if we have only eaten or slept a little. This is why the Manipra Chakra
is the most important energy centre for our physical well-being.
An imbalance or blockage in the Manipra Chakra paralyses and destroys our energy
and triggers diverse physical and psychic problems. If we are unable to think clearly,
to express our thoughts and feelings, or if our mind is foggy there is often a
disturbance in the Manipra Chakra. Numerous complaints such as Diabetes, skin
diseases, cardio-vascular diseases, Gout, Arthritis, rheumatic diseases, many types of
migraines, allergies and many more can trace their origin back to a lack of energy
within the Manipra Chakra and a badly functioning digestive system.
It is tremendously important for both our physical and mental health that we
consume healthy, energy giving food that has a pure, positive vibration. Before we eat
we should find out where the food has come from and what qualities it contains. It is
not only the nutrients that are important but also the subtle vibrations of the food,
which have a marked effect on the body, mind and our spiritual energy. These
vibrations can considerably alter our physical wellbeing, our thoughts, feelings and
vitality. A basic question we should put to ourselves is: Is the food we are eating
connected with the pain, suffering or death of any living being?
Daily, hundreds of thousands of animals are cruelly slaughtered for consumption.
Apart from the fact that meat is detrimental for our physical health it is extremely
harmful for our consciousness and has serious karmic consequences. Just as they are
still doing today, Yogis have been warning people for thousands of years about the
karmic consequences of killing animals, and also the danger to their health caused by
the consumption of meat (a fact which nowadays is undeniable, with the spreading of
animal diseases such as BSE, Foot and Mouth Disease, Swine Fever, etc., and also the
feeding of antibiotics and hormones to animals).
Together with the meat that we consume we absorb the vibration of the fear of death,
the pain and the despair of the animal. This fear sinks into the subconscious and
comes to light again in our dreams and meditation. How subtly the food works can be
seen in the following story:
A Yogi lived in a little hut outside a village and each day the villagers provided him
with a meal. In the village lived a thief who also wanted to gain the blessings of the
Yogi, so one day he went and offered the Yogi a meal. But the Yogi refused to accept
anything from him. Hurt, the thief left and changed his plan. He then instructed the
owner of a caf to prepare and deliver a midday meal to the Yogi, for which he
paid. The owner carried out the instructions and the Yogi ate the meal not
suspecting that the thief had paid for it.
During his evening meditation a very peculiar thought suddenly arose in the mind
of the Yogi. He had a compulsive desire to acquire the gold statue of Krishna from
the temple. The longing for it was so strong that in the middle of the night he crept
into the temple and stole the statue of Lord Krishna. But he was observed by the
guard who immediately ran into the village and sounded the alarm.
The Yogi ran as quickly as he could down towards the river with the golden Krishna
under his arm. He jumped into the water and then abruptly stopped. The cold
water had brought clarity to his confused thoughts and he became conscious of just
what he had done, and of the awkward situation he now found himself in as the
villagers approached him shouting angrily.
With great presence of mind the Yogi decided on a ruse. He acted as though he were
performing a Pj . As his pursuers approached they saw what appeared to be a
ritual bathing of the form of Krishna with the Yogi chanting Mantras. This calmed
them down and afterwards they returned with the Yogi to re-instal the statue in its
rightful place.
It was completely incomprehensible to the Yogi how his mind was able to have
become so confused. Then it occurred to him to ask the man who had brought him
his last meal. He called him and questioned him about where the food had come
from. This person then admitted that the thief was the true donor of the meal. Now
the Yogi was clear about where the desire to steal had come from. The vibrations of
the thoughts of the thief were in the food and it was in this way that they had been
transmitted to him.
To neutralise bad vibrations and influences that we are unaware of within our food it
is recommended that we say a prayer before eating. This transforms the subtle
vibrations of the food and has a harmonising influence on the Manipra Chakra. But
a prayer said at the beginning of a meal still does not give us a karmic licence. It is
unable to protect us from harmful substances or from the karmic consequences that
arise from the consumption of meat, due to the slaughter, or from condoning the
slaughter, of animals. God is the Creator of all living beings, so how can He be happy
when we destroy His Creation?
This sequence of Mantras is a very beautiful prayer to repeat before eating:
OM ANNAPRNE SADPURNE SHANKARA PRNA-VALLABHE
GYNA-VAIRGYA-SIDDHRTHE BIKSHM DEHI CHA PRVT
MT CHA PRVAT DEV PIT DEVO MAHESHWARAH
BNDHAVH SHIVA BHAKTSHCHA SVADESHO BHUVANATRAYAM
OM PRNAMIDAH PRNAMIDAM PRNAT PRNAMUDACHYATE
PRNASYA PRNAMDYA PRNAMEVVASHISHYATE
SHUBHAM KAROTI KALYNAM AROGYAM DHAN SAMPADH
SHATRU-BUDDHIR-VINSHYA DPA-JYOTIR-NAMOSTU TE
OM DP JYOTI PARABRAHMA DPAM SARVE MOHANAM
DPANAMSAJATESARVAMSANDHY DPAMSARVASATYAM
OM BRAHMRPANAM BRAHMA HAVIR BRAHMGNAU BRAHMAN HUTAM
BRAHMAIVA TENA GANTAVYAM BRAHMA-KARMA-SAMDHIN
OM SHNTIH SHNTIH SHNTIH
OM NAMAH PRVAT PATAYE, HARA HARA MAHDEVA HARA
The fire of the Manipra Chakra is a sacred power. It is the flame of life into which
the Yogi sacrifices not only his food, but also his conscious breathing (Prnyma).
When we understand that the taking of food and oxygen are acts of giving not taking,
then these activities acquire great spiritual significance.
There is one great disadvantage with the fire of the Manipra Chakra. It is the duty
and characteristic (Dharma) of fire to burn everything indiscriminately. It does not
care at all whether it turns newspaper or banknotes into ash. Therefore, the nectar
(Amrit), which is produced by the Bindu Chakra and is capable of slowing down the
aging process and preserving our health and youthfulness, is burnt in the Manipra
Chakra before this valuable elixir of life can be utilised.
The functioning of the Manipra Chakra is closely connected to the Pancreas. A
displacement of the Pancreas is an important cause for an imbalance in the
Manipra Chakra. If the Pancreas is in its correct position one can feel a slight pulse
at the centre of the navel; but sometimes the pulse can be felt further to the left or
right, or a little above or below the navel. Through this shift in position different
disorders such as headache, migraine, diarrhoea, abdominal pains, a lack of energy
or feelings of anxiety can occur.
For example: If the pulse is perceptible above and to the left of the navel, respiratory
problems can arise; if it is to the left of the navel it can be the cause of emotional
problems; to the right it can produce energy blockages; and to the right and below
the navel, digestive disorders can occur. However, there are some exercises that can
correct the positioning of the Pancreas, and in this way the flow of energy in the
Manipra Chakra can again be brought back into balance. As a result the symptoms
in many cases improve rapidly.
A symbol of the Manipra Chakra is the ten-petalled Lotus blossom. The petals
represent the ten Prnas (currents and energy vibrations) that are regulated by the
Manipra Chakra. Prna has two meanings: Firstly, it is the all-pervading energy that
fills the entire Universe the Cosmic Mother who nourishes our soul . Prnic energy
streams through all objects and all living beings and is coloured by their qualities.
The second meaning of Prna is God, or the Self.
Here we are talking about Prna in the first sense life force, vitality, that we absorb
with the oxygen that we breathe and the food that we eat. The ten Prnas are divided
into five Prna-Vyus and five Upa Prnas. They regulate the five Karma Indriyas
(the organs of action) and the five Gyna Indriyas (the organs of knowledge, or
perception), which together are responsible for other important life-supporting
functions.
The five Prna Vayus are: PRNA, APNA, UDNA, SAMNA and VYNA. Prna is
responsible for inhalation, Apna for exhalation, Udna for ingestion of food,
Samna for digestion and Vyna for circulation and nervous system. The five Upa
Prnas are: NGA, KRMA, DEVADATTA, KRIKALA and DHANANJAYA. Nga
controls the function of burping, Krma the movement of the eyelids, Devadatta
yawning, Krikala sneezing and Dhananjaya nourishes and strengthens the body and
stabilises the function of the organs.
As the ten Prnas radiate through the whole body it is understandable just how
important a strong and harmonious Manipra Chakra is for all the functions within
the body.
There are two basic functions within the body - reception of energy (Prna) and
elimination of waste (Apna). The energies of Prna and Apna meet at the
Manipra Chakra. They represent the two basic functions of giving and taking,
expansion and contraction, assimilation and elimination. Both forces should be able
to function freely; disturbances or blockages lead to illness and, in extreme cases,
even to death.
Prna is the receiving power that enables and controls the supply of energy to the
body. Its seat is in the upper body. Through this Prna we receive oxygen, which is
essential for life, and the life force that exists within the air we breathe.
Apna is the eliminating power that brings about detoxification through excretion,
secretion and exhalation. Its seat is in the lower abdomen. If Apna Vyu cannot flow
freely then it results in toxicity within the body. Illnesses or diseases that affect the
lower abdomen, intestines, kidneys, urinary tract, legs, etc., result from a disturbance
of Apna Vyu.
Prna and Apna not only have a physical but also a very important spiritual
function. Through certain advanced Yoga techniques (Kriys) the energy currents of
Prna and Apna can be united in the Manipra Chakra and guided into the
Sushumn Nd (Central Nervous System). When this occurs the Kundalin energy
rises to the Sahasrra Chakra and the meditator experiences the state of Samdhi,
supreme consciousness.
But this Prnic energy is also influenced by our own mental radiation, by our
individual qualities, feelings and thoughts. For as long as the Prnic energy remains
polluted and encumbered by karmic waste it is not possible for the energy to rise
and unite with the divine.
The animal symbol of the Manipra Chakra is the RAM, a fiery and lively animal.
The animal symbol of a Chakra indicates that at this particular stage of development
we are still connected to nature. As the development of the embryo within the
mothers womb indicates, we carry the genetic makeup of plants as well as animal
and human life within us and must therefore constantly make allowance for these
qualities and aspects of consciousness that form our evolutionary base.
Another symbol of the Manipra Chakra is an inverted TRIANGLE. This symbol is
also encountered in the Mldhra Chakra. The downward pointing tip of the
triangle symbolises the origin, and the upward spreading sides of the triangle
indicate growth and development. The triangle is also a symbol for the flame of the
Manipra Chakra that expands and rises upwards.
VISHNU and LAKSHM are the divinities that reside in the Manipra Chakra.
Lakshm is the goddess of wealth and prosperity. This does not refer only to the
material, but primarily to health and spiritual prosperity. Health and a cheerful
nature are very valuable possessions that make our life successful and happy.
Lakshm is the celestial counterpart of My. Her gifts are perfect and constant
happiness. Lakshm symbolises the rising spiritual energy, whereas My diverts the
consciousness towards the material.
Here Vishnu personifies the progression towards human consciousness, spiritual
growth and creativity. In mythology Lord Vishnu rests in the middle of an infinite
ocean on the coiled up body of a thousand-headed snake (Sheshanga), and the
snake carries the earth on its heads. As soon as the snake moves its heads a little an
earthquake occurs. From Vishnus navel a Lotus grows upwards, and from its
opening petals Lord Brahm, the creator of the world, appears.
What does this mythological image say to us?
First we will examine the significance of the world resting on the snakes heads.
Shesha means thousand, but also the rest, what is left over. When diversity is
removed, there remains only unity Truth (Satya). The earth, which is the basis of
our existence, is therefore based on the one divine truth and reality. When this
foundation of our existence begins to shake, it means that if we fall from unity into
duality, a trembling of our consciousness occurs and we lose the inner peace and
harmony with our Self and creation.
As Kundalin (Serpent Power), the world-snake also represents the Mldhra
Chakra upon which our consciousness and personality are founded.
In the Shastras it is said that the first movement (Sphurana) that led to the creation
of the Universe came from Lord Vishnu. Therefore the Lotus that grows from Lord
Vishnus navel centre the Manipra Chakra symbolises the primal sound OM
from which creation began. Therefore the Lord of Creation, Brahm, is found here.
The element of the Manipra Chakra is fire, a symbol for activity and creativity. So in
this archetype of creation we find all the elements Earth, Water, Fire, Air (Sound)
and Space.
Recapitulating briefly on our journey through the Chakras up till now: The divinity of
the Mldhra Chakra is Pashupati Shiva who accompanies evolution from animal
consciousness to the beginning of human consciousness. In the Svadhishthna
Chakra we encounter Brahm who awakens Buddhi (intellect) and Viveka (reason)
within humans. And Lord Vishnu symbolises the human consciousness purified of
animal qualities, which has its beginning in the Manipra Chakra.
In the Hindu trinity Lord Vishnu is the protector. Just as a mother protects and
nourishes her child, the Manipra Chakra safeguards and supports our life by
distributing the energy that we take in through eating, drinking and breathing.
The colour of the Manipra Chakra is YELLOW-ORANGE and its radiation is
GREEN, the complimentary colour of red. It has the colour of a pure flame that gives
light and energy and removes all pollutants.
On one hand, fire means aggression, passion, inner heat and restlessness and on
the other hand it means purification and refinement. In the Manipra Chakra we
have the unique opportunity to free ourselves once and for all of bad qualities and
habits. When we consign our doubts and weaknesses, such as anger and envy, to the
fire of the Manipra it burns them to ash on the spot. Therefore we should not guide
the energy of such emotions to the head or the heart where it causes blockages,
tension and pain, but to our inner fireplace.
Mahprabhuj says in one Bhajan:
Ignite the fire of the Manipra and throw all your doubts and ignorance into this
fire.
And in another Bhajan, Mahprabhuj sings of the inner fire of the Manipra Chakra:
Oh Yogis, why do you kindle a fire in the jungle?
My fire burns without wood and generates no smoke.
It is the inner fire that glows through Prna Shakti.
In the middle of this fire flows the Holy Ganges,
In which Yogis refresh themselves.
Here, fire stands for the Pingal Nd and the Ganges for the Id Nd , the nerve
channels which run along the right and left sides of the body. The Pingal Nd is
activated through the breath in the right nostril. Its energy is warming like the light
of the sun. Id Nd is activated through the breath in the left nostril. Its radiation is
like that of the soft and cool light of the moon.
Also in the same Bhajan it further says:
The voices of these Yogis ring out with beauty and purity
In harmony with the rhythm of eternity.
This rhythm is NDA, the pulse beat of the Universe that we are able to feel in the
navel and perceive as a subtle sound in meditation. Another basic rhythm that
resounds within us is SO HAM That I am. It is the call of the soul that we are able
to perceive in deep meditation.
Nda (sound, vibration) is the foundation stone of the Universe. As Nda is
compressed the subtle and gross elements are formed. The resonance of its vibration
pulsates within us as life force (Prna).
The Bja Mantra of the Manipra Chakra is RAM. This sound developed from the
vibration caused by the meeting of the Nds in this centre. If we sing RAM for some
time and specifically allow the R to vibrate, we become conscious of a pleasant
feeling of warmth and the flow of energy.
The seat of words is in the Manipra Chakra. This is demonstrated by the following
experiment: Place your thumb on your navel and say a word out loud. You will notice
that you feel the vibration of the sound first in the navel before it is discernable on
your lips. The sound begins in the navel, rises to the larynx, and manifests as sound
from the lips. Exercises that strengthen and harmonise the Manipra Chakra are
therefore also beneficial for all types of speech impediments.
Mahprabhuj said:
While your hands work carry Gods name on your lips. and Allow your words to
flow like radiant pearls from your lips.
The best word of all is Gods name, the Mantra. Therefore always practise your
Mantra. If you do not have a personal Mantra then mentally repeat OM SHNTI. OM
is the original sound of the divine and SHNTI means peace. You will experience
how this vibration fills your inner being with harmony, strength and peace, and
through this your attitude to the external world and your fellow beings will change
for the better.
In Buddhism there is a much-recited Mantra OM MANI PADME HUM . This
Mantra means: My adoration to the Lotus Feet of the Master or My adoration to
the Master of the Jewelled City. It also says: I am the jewel in the Lotus my Self
carries all these jewels as divine qualities within. The Lotus, as the symbol for
beauty, clarity, wisdom, bliss and spiritual awakening, corresponds precisely to the
qualities of the Manipra Chakra. This is why the vibration of the Mantra, OM MANI
PADME HUM, influences this Chakra particularly and frees us from inner problems
and complexes.
Those who pray, meditate and repeat their Mantra daily are blessed. Through effort,
knowledge, trust in God and the blessing of the Master (Guru Krip) everything turns
around for the better. Choose God as your constant companion on your journey
through life while you allow Gods name to constantly resonate within you. Those
who feel God within live in eternal joy and never feel sad or abandoned.
At the beginning of your meditation always concentrate firstly on the Manipra
Chakra. If this energy centre is relaxed then the Mldhra Chakra and
Svdhishthna Chakra will also automatically relax. Then the energy can flow
upwards unhindered, streaming outwards and upwards to the heart. Through this
you experience a happy and deep meditation.
When the energy flows harmoniously within the Manipra Chakra a feeling of total
wellbeing develops within us; and when we feel well everything goes smoothly. This
feeling of wellbeing permeates the entire body, mind and psyche and is therefore an
important prerequisite for our health and ongoing spiritual development.

A Chakra Purification Meditation

The chakra cleansing exercise accomplishes pranayama, pratyhara, and
dharana all at once being an excellent preparation before meditation or other
practices of laya yoga. It helps us focus within toward awareness of the energy
body, based on the classic seven chakras and their seed (bija) syllables. Each
chakra has thus a corresponding vibratory sound energy which helps us get in
touch with that region. According to classic hatha yoga there are seven
chakras and their sounds are approximately:

Lam for the muladhara (earth) chakra located in the perineum area. Yellow
in Color

Vam for the swadhistana (water) chakra located in the prostate/ovaries area.
White in Color

Ram for the manipura chakra (fire) located above the navel. Red in Color.

Yam for the Heart chakra (anahat) associated with the element of air. Blue in
Color

Ham for the vishudda (throat chakra) associated with ether (akasha). Swirling
Dark Gray
Aum for the third eye

AH for the Crown (various schools use different sounds for the crown chakra,
here AH is a special mantra specifically chosen for its benign effects.

The first five seed syllables are said with a nasal "hngh" type ending more
than a mmm type ending as in lamngh, vamngh, ramngh, yamngh, and
hamngh. In the Nepalese and Tibetan tradition it is often pronounced la, va,
ra, ya, ha.

We can increase the detail in regard to colors, number of lotus petals, letters
on the lotus petals, sounds of the lotus petals turning, etc. to aid further
detailed concentrations, but this process of differentiation can be endless. It
can be even counter-productive as these details are not the chakras
themselves, but rather simply symbolic representations of corresponding
characteristics that "may" help point out as a temporary aid in which to
access the actual awareness of these vibrating energy vortexes in which more
or less detail may or may not be of help.

For those who are a bit unfocused, then the need for more details may help
their over active mental situation in which case there exist many more
detailed chakra meditations utilizing such detail. However in this
chakra purification meditation we do not trouble ourselves with such details,
but rather use the sounds as an aid to focus in on the pre-existing energy
patterns that are singing at each chakra -- bring our awareness and listening
to "it", more than projecting a sound unto it.

We start simply by sitting in a comfortable position with the spine resting on

the upright sacrum, - grounding the tailbone to the earth, and extending the
spine and torso (in mulabandha) so that the occiput extends toward the sky
and the chin is slightly drawn in (a soft jalandhara bandha). It might help to
halfway to close the eyes gazing inside and upward touching the tongue lightly
to the roof of mouth while the eyes look up softly into the ajna chakra.

The Practice Proper

We then visualize a brilliant bright light at the base of the spine. As we
breathe in we visualize this brilliant bright light entering the chakra and
purifying it. As we exhale we visualize the chakra opening (like the petals of a
lotus blossom) and say the seed syllable (once or up to sixteen times). Then we
again visualize a brilliant bright light at the base of the spine and as we inhale,
visualizing this light raising up to the next chakra purifying it. Again as we
exhale, we visualize the chakra opening like the petals of a lotus blossom as we
vibrate the seed syllable for that chakra out loud. Eventually we work up to
the crown kinesthetically feeling the vibratory nature of these energies. With
the awareness focused within to this energy flow we sit in silent awareness
connecting the root with the crown (sambhavi mudra).

For example, inhale a brilliant bright light from the base of the spine into the
MULADHARA chakra. As we exhale we visualize the chakra opening like a
lotus flower while saying LAM as many times as you like (classically up to 16
times).

On the next inhale we visualize a brilliant bright light moving up from the
base of the spine to the SWADHISTHANA chakra (below the navel) and as
we exhale we vibrate aloud the sound, VAM, anywhere as many times as you
like (classically up to 16 times) as we visualize the chakra opening like the
petals of a lotus flower.

Likewise from the base of the spine we visualize a brilliant bright light and as
we inhale it moves upward purifying the MANIPURA chakra (above the
navel) and as we exhale the seed syllable RAM vibrating aloud as we visualize
the chakra opening.

Then visualizing again a brilliant bright light at the base of the spine we
inhale it up to the heart center (ANAHAT CHAKRA) and as we exhale say
the bija mantra YAM as many times as we are drawn to (usually one to
sixteen times) as the chakra opens.

Then visualizing a brilliant bright light at the base of the spine, inhaling it up
the spine as a white light into the throat chakra (VISHUDDA) and as we
exhale say HAM as we visualize the petals of the chakra opening.

On the next inhale we breathe up a brilliant white light from the grounded
tailbone connecting into the third eye (AJNA chakra) and as the petals open
as we exhale saying a long AUM only once.

Then we visualize a brilliant bright white light at the base of the spine and as
we inhale visualize it rising to to the crown chakra (SAHASRARA) and as we
resonate out loud a long AHHHH deep within the brain and upward we
visualize the chakra opening so that our energy is as an open self supporting
balanced conduit between the earth and the sky extended in an effortless self
supported equipoise.

At this point in the meditation we can engage in other practices for self
healing, such as doing energy healing work by finding pre-existing energy
blocks and working through them, or begin a silent meditation, or simply be
finished for the time being.
For example we can repeat the visualization over again to see if there is an
improved effect. Especially if we noticed an energy blockage in a specific area
the first time, we can simply breathe back into the chakra below and above it,
resonate the seed syllables over again, and then on an additional breath,
breathe into the specific energy center in question. This can be repeated until
some sort of openness or flow is achieved. Feel free to experiment with
resonant combinations of the chakras, for example, the ajna chakra and
swadhistana chakra have a specific resonance, the vishuddi (throat) and
manipura (fire chakra), the earth (muladhara) and sky sahasrara), etc. It is
especially the the root and crown chakras (earth and sky) which are the two
most critical to connect while the others may just fall into place on their own
inbetween.

So in the above practice we have also accomplished asana (posture),

pranayama (lengthening the energy), pratyhara (focusing the awareness
within), and dharana (focusing the mind) allowing us to be much better
prepared to sit in meditation as the energy is already flowing easier because
pratyhara and dharana has already become accomplished.

An Advanced Chakra Meditation

This ends the simple chakra purification exercise which accomplishes
pratyhara and focuses (dharana) our energy and mind inside freeing us from
external disturbance and vagaries (vrtti) and thus acting as a catalyst both
toward self empowerment, self healing, and effective meditation.

The first practice (given above) is both absolutely safe and purifying as well as
energizing. An advanced practice may be undertaken after one has practiced
pranayama with kumbhaka (retention) and the three bandhas (mula,
uddiyana, and jalandhara bandhas) with an even more powerful effect.

The advanced practice is performed as above, but the main difference occurs
with the synchronistic use of retention (antar kumbhaka), the bandhas, and
more elaborate visualization thusly. At the end of each inhale, having brought
the light and breath into the chakra and before the beginning the exhalation,
one holds the breath inside (internal kumbhaka) while at the same time
performing the three bandhas as a continuous wave starting at the bottom
and working upward. While the breath is held inside, the chakra region can
be visualized in more detail if desired. A simple and easy addition in this
regard is to visualize the chakra region as pulsating in a vibratory wavelike
motion adding appropriate color associations to the energy or adding even
greater elaboration if one desires. Then, one slowly exhales, before there is
any discomfort vibrating the seed syllable as in the above purification
practice, paying attention to the subtle quality and tone of the exhalation.

This should be done after the chakra purification practice is mastered. It

brings more vitalizing energy into the system (good for those who are deficient
in prana, tejas, or ojas). One may do this advanced practice feeling both the
front and the back of the body vibrating. For some the colors are valuable, for
others the sound, for others the breath, and for others it is simply the feeling --
the awareness of opening and being filled with light, prana, and strength.

To enhance the above after the chakras are purified and open, they can be
activated by doing the same as above, but in addition hold the breath (internal
kumbhaka) inward utilizing the three bandhas gently for a short duration of
time before exhaling and sending the the light out (while the lotus flowers
expand).

The above is the classic hatha yoga practice, but there are many schools which
differ on some specifics. The most controversial is the sound at the crown
chakra, but ah is the most common. The second most common sound that is
often suggested at the crown chakra is the high pitched sound, hri
(pronounced huhreeee). There are also schools which use different sounds at
each chakra (rare).

Many Western schools give the colors for the chakras like the spectrum
starting with red at the root, orange at the swadhistana, yellow at the navel,
green at the heart, blue at the throat, purple at the ajna, and white at the
crown, but such is not found in classical yoga. Utilized as a simple but
profound purification, a white color should be used for all the chakras. As an
additional practice the different colors, syllables (sounds) for the various
petals, associated deities, and symbols may be used for those who like more
detail. Feel free to experiment to ascertain what works best for yourself. To
get a powerful effect, the practice can be very simple as in the first part.

CHAKRA CHART
Seed
Locatio Body Sharir
Chakra Syllabl Prana Kosha Organ Element
n a
e
Base of apana
Muladhara Lam Annamaya Sthula smell earth
the spine vayu
Swadisthan Below vyana
Vam Annamaya Sthula taste water
a Navel vayu
 Above saman
Manipura Ram Pranamaya Sukshma seeing fire
Navel a vayu
prana
Anahata Heart Yam Manomaya Sukshma feeling air
vayu
hearin
udana Vijnanamay ether (akasha
Vishuddha Throat Ham Sukshma g
vayu a )
speech
Third Vijnanamay
Ajna Aum Sukshma
Eye a
Sahasrara Crown Ah Anandamaya Karana

Regarding the above chart, one may eventually become aware of the more
subtle energies that surround and operate in our life. The various bodies
(called sharira in Sanskrit) are associated with the five koshas (sheaths). The
coarse physical body (sthula sharira) is of the lowest vibration and most
dense. The subtle body (the sukshma sharira) which is often called the astral
or energy body is associated with the pranamaya, manomaya, and
vijnanamaya koshas depending on its state of purification and
transformation, while the causal body (the karana sharira) is associated with
the anandamaya kosha which is beyond suffering and bondage. See The
Timeless Body of Infinite Light and it's Finite Manifestations for more.

A Top Down Chakra Meditation

Another classical chakra meditation is top down (from sahasrara to
muladhara). This one also utilizes a slight retention after the inhalation (antar
kumbhaka).

Again find a very comfortable, strong, and upright position grounding the
tailbone with the earth and placing the pelvis in neutral position so that the
spinal column sits erect upon the sacrum. Lift the hear, extend the spine,
slightly without tension tuck the chin gently, and implement the energetic
form of each bandha (mulabandha, uddiyana bandha, and jalandhara
bandha) without strain so there is a felt sense of self supporting mutuality. Let
the back of the medial scapulae sink while the top front of the shoulders move
up and around and toward the back (posterior). Let the gaze rest at the third
eye or nose and implement khechari mudra (if you practice it) or simply place
the tongue at the top palate without creating stress to the tongue or jaw. Relax
into a feeling of buoyancy. The hands can rest on the knees in chin mudra,
jnana mudra, or any other comfortable position that supports the overall
energy.

Begin by becoming aware of the space above the crown (at the parietal bones
which are located top dead center between the occiput in back and frontal
bone in front). Center your awareness there and try to feel the empty space
above the crown (sahasrara) as a subtle density dynamic, a wind, fluid, wave
like etheric pressure variant, or any other such subtle awareness. Visualize the
brahmarandhra (hole of Brahma) open at the top of the head. If you do not
feel the specific location of the brahmarandhra chose the bregma point (the
anterior fontanel at the junction of the frontal and parietal bones) or the
posterior fontanel at the junction of the parietal and occiput. If the exact spot
is difficult to locate, then try visualizing the entire parietal bone flapping
subtly like wings, the sides rise up on the exhalation and come together on the
inhalation creating an widening abduction on top.

Then on the inhalation breathe energy from infinite Source above the crown
and then down into that spot sucking it in through the brahmarandhra. On
the exhalation breathe the energy and light back up and out through the
brahmarandhra to infinite space. Repeat two or more times until the area
feels open, airy, bright, and cleansed.

Then on an inhalation breathe fresh new white colored light into the crown
(sahasrara) and hold the breath and bandhas in while visualizing the entire
frontal cortex and cerebrum fill and flood with white light on the exhalation
letting the energy spread outward.

On the next inhalation breathe the white light in from infinite Source through
the brahmarandhra and down from the crown into ajna chakra filling the
third eye, physical eyes, sinus, thalamus, cerebellum, back brain, and brain
stem with white light and energy while retaining the breath in implementing
the bandhas actively. Exhale the same way again flooding the light outward
throughout the region.

Repeat breathing white light into the throat chakra (vishuddha), the
heart/lungs (anahat chakra) , the manipura (fire chakra), the swadhistana
chakra (water), and muladhara chakra (earth) the same way utilizing an
internal retention (kumbhaka) and then a spreading outward of the light
energy on the exhalation purifying each and every chakra one by one.

It is excellent to move this energy all the way down to the soles of the feet
while spreading the white light outward on the exhalation.

Let the light spread out in all directions in each chakra. On each exhalation be
aware of a vibratory and pulsating afterglow of light in each chakra.

After all seven chakras are done this way and you have cleansed and activated
the muladhara, then in one long breath breathe in from infinite Source all the
way to the muladhara implementing the internal kumbhaka and the bandhas
as the light and space is spread throughout the body to each and every system,
cell, and atom. During the kumbhaka (breath retention stage) gently
compound and suck in and up the energy in the lower cauldron (lower dan
dien or hara) below the navel by combining mulabandha and uddiyana
bandha. Before the exhalation visualize the energy from muladhara on up
from chakra to chakra to the crown completing the circle by containing it. At
this phase spread the entire body with white vajra light. As you exhale let
loose all the bandhas and slowly let the breath and light connect back to
infinite source out the crown of the head as well as sink down to mother
nature/creation leaving the entire body and nervous system as an open
channel, connected, quickened, livened, strengthened, energized, cleansed,
vibrating, and pulsing at an accelerated very intelligent healing frequency.

Sit in that afterglow space in a receptive mood and then start your meditation
or practice or simply use this time to facilitate energy healing work in specific
areas. Eventually allow the breath to return to an equality of inhalation and
exhalation or allow the exhalation to be longer in regard to duration and
strength.

To end send the energy to fill the heart chakra and from there visualize this
energy going to every organ, tissue, gland, cell, atom, internal space in the
body, outer spaces, all times and dimension. Send this healing infinite
universal to the surrounding space, people, trees, community, plants, and
animals -- to everyone everywhere and throughout the three times.

The Ten and the Many

It is best mentioned here that the seven chakra system is classical, but your
actual practice does not have to be limited by the classical thought of centuries
long past. In the very ancient literature and traditions, there were three
chakras or lokas, then later there was five, then six, then seven. In some
tantric systems there are 9, 10, 12, and more. One theory is that the vibratory
nature of the universe, the galaxy, and hence the earth is accelerating and
becoming more refined and diversified as such new energy centers have
emerged within the hologram of man.

I use ten chakras. Please notice that this experientially works best for me at
this time, making no universal claims on its application, but simply will share
it here. One may locate the center of the chakras by making FIVE FINGER
WIDTH spacing starting from the pubic bone upward. The center of the
swadhistana then would be located in the center of the first palm. The second
palm will center around the navel region (manipura chakra), then higher up
five more finger widths the palm will be under the sternum, its center on top
of the spleen, liver, gallbladder, stomach complex. Here we can place an
additional chakra and call it the spleen or nabhi chakra with the seed syllable
hoh. Five more finger widths to the heart (anahata). Then five more locating
the thymus center halfway between the throat and heart chakra at the thymus
whose seed syllable is sham). These two chakras Spleen and Thymus) work in
resonance (like the throat and navel, ajna and swadhistana, muladhara and
sahasrara). The last additional but very important chakra is the Talu chakra
located at the cerebellum area and brain stem directly in front of the occiput.
Its seed syllable is also aum (like the ajna)

Thus we have ten

1. muladhara lam
2. swadhistana vam
3. manipura ram
4. nabhi/spleen hoh
5. anahat yam
6. thymus sham
7. vishudda ham
8. talu aum
9. ajna aum
10. sahasrara ah

For more on a 12 chakra system see the addendum at the Chakra Healing
page at Rainbowbody

The Seven Microcosmic Chakras of the Neck

The neck has an "S" shaped curve very similar to the spine and an analogue
can be found at each cervical vertebra. This additional chakra practice for the
seven vertebra of the neck and as a microcosm for the rest of the spine can be
done alone or integrated with the above practices is an excellent 7 step
exercise for those with blockages in vishudda chakra, neck, or throat
problems.

EARTH -- lam between the 7th and 6th

WATER -- vam between the 6th and 5th

FIRE -- ram between the 5th and 4th

AIR -- yam between the 4th and 3rd

akasha -- ham between the 3rd and 2nd

aum between the 2nd and 1st

aum again between 1st and then entering into the talu chakra

(note that sometimes the name of the chakra behind the occiput at the brain
stem is called "talu", while in other literature, "talu", refers to the region at
the cerebellum.

One can continue to break down the energetic points of the body and give
them names and sounds which symbolize their energetic resonance, harmony,
activation, and stabilization. Commonly there exist recognition of the chakras
at the cupped arches at both feet, at the heels, knees, and both hip joints, the
cupped arch at the palms of the hand, the wrists, the elbows, and at both
shoulder joints (gleno-humeral joints). In addition many tantric systems
recognize at least one chakra below the body belonging to the earth proper
and at least in space above the head belonging to the sky region proper. These
two follows around the human body where ever it goes as long as it is alive. It
is through this body that Shiva's love is communicated to Shakti, and how
Shakti's love toward Shiva is expressed in a balanced mutual timeless non-
dual synchronicity.

To Purity Portal

HeartMind Home Page

Back to Chakra and Energy Healing

The Cabala and the Chakras

The Timeless Body of Infinite Light and it's Finite Manifestations

The Stages of Life: Birth, Youth, Old Age, Sickness and Death

Tree Legends, Dragon Myths, and Wisdom Tales

The Long Body: Portal to Earth Based Spirituality (includes "TWO TREES"
by W. B. Yeats)

Swara Yoga: Utilizing the Energy Valves at the Nares (swaras) as a Liberation
technique

To Hatha Yoga Index

There exist many volumes of words about the chakras, but the most important
thing to know is that all we need to know about the chakras are that they are
found inside. The following links are just the tip of the iceberg in comparison
of what is available on the world wide web, none of which can be nearly
complete as establishing the internal dialogue.

A simple but colorful exposition by Sahajayoga

A Wide Range of Information on Chakras at Kheper.net

Swara Yoga: Utilizing the Energy Valves at the Nares (swaras) as a Liberation
technique

Patanjali's Yoga Sutras; Pada III (Vibhuti Pada), Sutras III.41-46. Also see III.31
commentary on the Kurma Nadi

"Nature's Finer Forces and the Science of Breath (Pranayama Yoga)" was
originally published in Sanskrit as "Science of the Breath and the Philosophy of the
Tatwas"), by Rama Prasad, is available here in PDF format,

Swara Yoga (according to the Bihar School of Yoga). Much excellent data about
Swara Yoga at http://www.swarayoga.org

Bhuta Shuddhi (presented by Swami Rama)

Presentation of Bhuta Shuddhi by Swami Satyasangananada Saraswati

Energy Bodies, Koshas, Kayas, and Sharira

Chakra and Energy Body Healing

An Energy Body Approach to Hatha Yoga Asana Practice

Hatha Yoga Topics Index

HeartMind Yoga Home