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Difference between revisions of "Chakra"

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Chakras, in Hindu metaphysical tradition and other belief systems, are centres of Prāṇa, life force, or vital energy. Chakras correspond to vital points in the physical body i.e. major plexuses of arteries, veins and nerves. Texts and teachings present different numbers of chakras.
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[[Chakra]] ([[Cakra]], Skt); ’[[khor lo]] / [[rtsa ’khor]] (Tib).
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This literally means [[wheel]]. In the [[Vajrayana]] context, it refers to the [[energy centres]] which occur at the junction of the three [[nadis]].
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There are [[seven Chakras]] generally recognised.
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Within [[Vajrayana]], five of these are regarded as especially significant.
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These are the {{Wiki|crown}}, {{Wiki|throat}}, [[heart]], [[navel]] and [[secret chakras]]. 
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[[chakra]]: Literally, “[[wheel]]” or “[[circle]].” 
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It is a term for the centers of {{Wiki|subtle}} or refined [[energy]] in the [[human body]].
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These [[centers of energy]] are considered to be sources for [[psychic]] or [[spiritual powers]].
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They can be manipulated by the [[dharma protectors]] to allow for the [[development]] of [[supernormal powers]].
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The [[Buddha]] [[taught]] a different system of developing the [[chakras]] than that followed by other [[Indian]] [[methods]].
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There are [[five chakras]] [[recognized]] in the [[Buddhist]] system of [[yoga]].
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[[chakra]]
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[[輪宝]]・[[輪]] (Skt; Jpn [[rimbo]] or [[rin]] )
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Also, [[chakra treasure]] or [[wheel treasure]].  
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One of the [[seven treasures]] that a [[wheel-turning king]] (Skt [[chakravarti-raja]] ) is said to possess.
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A [[wheel-turning king]] was a [[wise]] and {{Wiki|benevolent}} [[ruler]], an {{Wiki|ideal}} [[king]] in {{Wiki|Indian mythology}}.  
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The [[Sanskrit]] [[word]] [[chakra]] means the [[wheel of a carriage]].  
  
Their name derives from the Sanskrit word for "wheel" or "turning".[note 1]
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The {{LTSW|seven treasures of a wheel-turning king}}[[seven treasures of a wheel-turning king]] are a
  
The concept of chakra features in tantric and yogic traditions of Hinduism and Buddhism.
 
  
  
Etymology
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[[chakra]],
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[[elephants]],
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[[horses]],
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[[jewels]],
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[[jewel-like women]],
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[[excellent ministers of financial affairs]], and
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[[generals]].
  
Bhattacharyya's review of Tantric history says that the word chakra is used to mean several different things in the Sanskrit sources:[1]
 
  
     "Circle," used in a variety of senses, symbolising endless rotation of shakti.
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     A circle of people. In rituals there are different cakra-sādhanā in which adherents assemble and perform rites. According to the Niruttaratantra, chakras in the sense of assemblies are of 5 types.
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A [[chakra]], or [[wheel]], is of four kinds:
     The term chakra also is used to denote yantras or mystic diagrams, variously known as trikoṇa-cakra, aṣṭakoṇa-cakra, etc.
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     Different "nerve plexus within the body."
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{{Wiki|gold}},
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{{Wiki|silver}},
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{{Wiki|copper}}, and
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{{Wiki|iron}}.
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A [[wheel-turning king]] possesses one or another of these [[four kinds of wheels]], an indication of his rank.
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Turning his [[chakra]], a [[wheel-turning king]] advances without [[hindrance]], overthrows his enemies, establishes [[peace]], and {{Wiki|rules}} with justice and [[benevolence]] wherever he goes.
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In [[Buddhism]], a [[chakra]] is regarded as a [[symbol]] of the [[Buddha's teachings]], which vanquish [[earthly desires]] and [[illusions]].
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The [[word]] [[dharma-chakra]], or the [[wheel of the Law]], is often used to describe the teachings.
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The [[Buddha's]] preaching is expressed as "the [[turning of the wheel of the Law]]."
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In the history of [[Buddhism]], before images of the [[Buddha]] appeared, the [[Buddha]] was depicted in carvings [[symbolically]] as a [[wheel]], a [[bodhi tree]], and other images.
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A [[chakra]] was originally a [[wheel]]- or disk-shaped weapon in {{Wiki|ancient India}} that was hurled as a missile at enemies.
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[[Chakras]], in [[Hindu]] [[metaphysical]] [[tradition]] and other [[belief]] systems, are [[centers of Prāṇa]], [[life force]], or [[vital energy]].
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[[Chakras]] correspond to [[vital points]] in the [[physical body]] i.e. major plexuses of {{Wiki|arteries}}, veins and {{Wiki|nerves}}.
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Texts and teachings {{Wiki|present}} different numbers of [[chakras]].
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Their [[name]] derives from the [[Sanskrit]] [[word]] for "[[wheel]]" or "[[turning]]"
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The {{Wiki|concept}} of [[chakra]] features in [[tantric]] and [[yogic]] [[traditions]] of [[Hinduism]] and [[Buddhism]].
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{{Wiki|Etymology}}
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[[Bhattacharyya's]] review of [[Tantric]] history says that the [[word]] [[chakra]] is used to mean several different things in the [[Sanskrit]] sources:
 +
 
 +
     "Circle," used in a variety of [[senses]], [[symbolizing]] [[endless]] rotation of [[shakti]].
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     A circle of [[people]].  
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In [[rituals]] there are different [[cakra-sādhanā]] in which {{Wiki|adherents}} assemble and perform [[rites]].  
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According to the [[Niruttaratantra]], [[chakras]] in the [[sense]] of assemblies are of 5 types.
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     The term [[chakra]] also is used to denote [[yantras]] or [[mystic]] diagrams, variously known as [[trikoṇa-cakra]], [[aṣṭakoṇa-cakra,]] etc.
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     Different "{{Wiki|nerve}} plexus within the [[body]]."
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[[File:87731t.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
 
[[File:87731t.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
In Buddhist literature the Sanskrit term cakra (Pali cakka) is used in a different sense of "circle," referring to a Buddhist conception of the Cycle of Rebirth consisting of six states in which beings may be reborn.[2]
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In [[Buddhist]] {{Wiki|literature}} the [[Sanskrit]] term [[cakra]] ([[Pali]] [[cakka]]) is used in a different [[sense]] of "[[circle]]," referring to a [[Buddhist]] {{Wiki|conception}} of the [[Cycle of Rebirth]] consisting of [[six states]] in which [[beings]] may be [[reborn]].
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The linguist Jorma Koivulehto wrote (2001) of the annual Finnish Kekri celebration having borrowed the [[word]] from early [[Wikipedia:Indo-Aryan peoples|Indo-Aryan]].  {{Wiki|Indo-European}} cognates include {{Wiki|Greek}} kuklos, Lithuanian kaklas, [[Tocharian]] B kokale and English "[[wheel]]," as well as "circle."
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Cognates of "[[chakra]]" still [[exist]] in {{Wiki|modern}} {{Wiki|Asian}} [[languages]] as well.
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In {{Wiki|Malay}}, "[[cakera]" means "[[disc]]," e.g. "[[cakerva padat]]" = "compact disc."
  
The linguist Jorma Koivulehto wrote (2001) of the annual Finnish Kekri celebration having borrowed the word from early Indo-Aryan.[3] Indo-European cognates include Greek kuklos, Lithuanian kaklas, Tocharian B kokale and English "wheel," as well as "circle."[4]
 
  
Cognates of "chakra" still exist in modern Asian languages as well. In Malay, "cakera" means "disc," e.g. "cakerva padat" = "compact disc."
 
 
History
 
History
  
While breath channels (nāḍis) of yogic practices had already been discussed in the classical Upanishads, it was not until the eighth-century Buddhist Hevajra Tantra and Caryāgiti, that hierarchies of chakras were introduced.[5][6]
 
Characteristics
 
  
the Texts and teachings present different numbers of chakras. Also different physical structures are considered chakras. David Gordon White thus emphasises:
 
  
    "In fact, there is no "standard" system of the cakras. Every school, sometimes every teacher within each school, has had their own chakra system."[7]
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While [[breath channels]] ([[nāḍis]]) of [[yogic]] practices had already been discussed in the classical [[Upanishads]], it was not until the eighth-century [[Buddhist]] [[Hevajra Tantra]] and [[Caryāgiti]], that hierarchies of [[chakras]] were introduced.
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=={{Wiki|Characteristics}}==
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the Texts and teachings {{Wiki|present}} different numbers of [[chakras]].
 +
 
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Also different [[physical]] structures are considered [[chakras]].
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[[David Gordon White]] thus emphasises:
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"In fact, there is no "standard" system of the [[cakras]].  
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Every school, sometimes every [[teacher]] within each school, has had their [[own]] [[chakra]] system."  
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[[File:Anahata Chakra.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
 
[[File:Anahata Chakra.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
 
The following features are common:
 
The following features are common:
  
     They form part of the body, along with the breath channels, or nadis, and the winds (vayus).
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     They are located along the central channel (sushumna/avadhūtī).
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     They [[form]] part of the [[body]], along with the [[breath]] [[channels]], or [[nadis]], and the [[winds]] ([[vayus]]).
     Two side channels cross the center channel at the location of the chakras.
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     They are located along the central [[channel]] ([[sushumna]]/[[avadhūtī]]).
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     Two side [[channels]] cross the center [[channel]] at the location of the [[chakras]].
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     They possess a number of 'petals' or 'spokes'.
 
     They possess a number of 'petals' or 'spokes'.
    They are generally associated with a mantra seed-syllable, and often with a variety of colours and deities.
 
  
Use in religious traditions
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    They are generally associated with a [[mantra]] [[seed-syllable]], and often with a variety of colors and [[deities]].
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==Use in [[religious]] [[traditions]]==
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==[[Hindu Tantra]]==
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[[David Gordon White]] traces the {{Wiki|modern}} [[popularity]] of the "[[Hindu]]" seven [[chakra]] system to [[Arthur Avalon's]] The [[Serpent Power]], which was [[Avalon's]] translation of a late work, the [[Satcakranirupana]]. 
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In [[actuality]], there are several models and systems {{Wiki|present}} in [[Hindu]] [[tantric]] {{Wiki|literature}}, as White documents. 
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[[Kundalini]] is a feature of [[Hindu]] [[chakra]] systems.
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==[[Buddhist Tantra]]==
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===[[Vajrayana]]===
  
Hindu Tantra
 
  
  
David Gordon White traces the modern popularity of the "Hindu" seven chakra system to Arthur Avalon's The Serpent Power, which was Avalon's translation of a late work, the Satcakranirupana.[8] In actuality, there are several models and systems present in Hindu tantric literature, as White documents.[9] Kundalini is a feature of Hindu chakra systems.
 
Buddhist Tantra
 
Vajrayana
 
 
[[File:Anahata Chakra-ges.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
 
[[File:Anahata Chakra-ges.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
Chakras play an important role in the main surviving branch of Indian Vajrayana, Tibetan Buddhism. They play a pivotal role in completion stage practices, where an attempt is made to bring the subtle winds of the body into the central channel, to realise the clear light of bliss and emptiness, and to attain Buddhahood.[10]
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[[Chakras]] play an important role in the main surviving branch of [[Indian]] [[Vajrayana]], [[Tibetan Buddhism]].  
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They play a pivotal role in [[completion stage practices]], where an attempt is made to bring the [[subtle winds]] of the [[body]] into the [[central channel]], to realize the [[clear light of bliss]] and [[emptiness]], and to attain [[Buddhahood]].
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The [[Vajrayana]] system states that the [[central channel]] ([[avadhūtī]]) begins at the point of the [[third eye]] like of [[lord]] [[Shiva]], curves up to the {{Wiki|crown}} of the head, and then goes straight down to the lower [[body]].
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There are [[two side channels]],
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the [[rasanā]] and
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[[lalanā]],
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which start at their respective nostrils and then travel down to the lower [[body]].
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The [[apāna vāyu]] governs the lower terminations of the three [[channels]].
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The lower end of the [[central channel]] ends in the {{Wiki|rectum}}.
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The lower end of the [[lalanā]] ends in the urinary tract.
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The lower end of the [[rasanā channel]] emits semen.  
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The [[side channels]] run parallel to the center [[channel]], except at locations such as the [[navel]], [[heart]], {{Wiki|throat}} and {{Wiki|crown}} (i.e. [[chakras]]) where the two side [[channels]] twist around the [[central channel]].
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At the [[navel]], {{Wiki|throat}} and {{Wiki|crown}}, there is a twofold [[knot]] [[caused]] by each side [[channel]] twisting once around the [[central channel]].
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At the [[heart wheel]] there is a sixfold [[knot]], where each [[side channel]] twists around three times.
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An important part of [[completion stage practice]] involves loosening and undoing these knots.
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Within the [[chakras]] [[exist]] the '[[subtle drops]]'.
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The [[white drop]] [[exists]] in the {{Wiki|crown}}, the [[red drop]] [[exists]] in the [[navel]], and at the [[heart]] [[exists]] the [[indestructible]] [[red]] and [[white drop]], which leaves the [[body]] at the [[time]] of [[death]].
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In addition, each [[chakra]] has a number of 'spokes' or 'petals', which branch off into thousands of [[subtle channels]] running to every part of the [[body]], and each contains a [[Sanskrit]] {{Wiki|syllable}}.
  
The Vajrayana system states that the central channel (avadhūtī) begins at the point of the third eye like of lord Shiva, curves up to the crown of the head, and then goes straight down to the lower body. There are two side channels, the rasanā and lalanā, which start at their respective nostrils and then travel down to the lower body. The apāna vāyu governs the lower terminations of the three channels. The lower end of the central channel ends in the rectum. The lower end of the lalanā ends in the urinary tract. The lower end of the rasanā channel emits semen.[citation needed]
 
  
The side channels run parallel to the center channel, except at locations such as the navel, heart, throat and crown (i.e. chakras) where the two side channels twist around the central channel. At the navel, throat and crown, there is a twofold knot caused by each side channel twisting once around the central channel. At the heart wheel there is a sixfold knot, where each side channel twists around three times. An important part of completion stage practice involves loosening and undoing these knots.[citation needed]
 
  
Within the chakras exist the 'subtle drops'. The white drop exists in the crown, the red drop exists in the navel, and at the heart exists the indestructible red and white drop, which leaves the body at the time of death. In addition, each chakra has a number of 'spokes' or 'petals', which branch off into thousands of subtle channels running to every part of the body, and each contains a Sanskrit syllable.[citation needed]
 
 
[[File:Anahata Chakra0.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
 
[[File:Anahata Chakra0.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
By focusing on a specific chakra (while often holding the breath) the subtle winds enter the central channel. The chakra at which they enter is important in order to realise specific practices. For example, focusing on the subnavel area is important for the practice of tummo, or inner fire. Meditating on the heart chakra is important for realising clear light. Meditating on the throat chakra is important for lucid dreaming and the practices of dream yoga. And meditating on the crown chakra is important for consciousness projection, either to another world, or into another body.[citation needed]
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By focusing on a specific [[chakra]] (while often holding the [[breath]]) the [[subtle winds]] enter the [[central channel]].  
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The [[chakra]] at which they enter is important in order to realize specific practices.  
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For example, focusing on the subnavel area is important for the practice of [[tummo]], or [[inner fire]].  
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[[Meditating]] on the [[heart chakra]] is important for realising [[clear light]].  
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[[Meditating]] on the [[throat chakra]] is important for lucid [[dreaming]] and the practices of [[dream yoga]].  
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And [[meditating]] on the [[crown chakra]] is important for [[consciousness]] projection, either to another [[world]], or into another [[body]].
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A result of energetic imbalance among the [[chakras]] is an almost continuous [[feeling]] of [[dissatisfaction]].
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When the [[heart chakra]] is agitated, [[people]] lose {{Wiki|touch}} with [[feelings]] and [[sensations]], and that breeds the [[sense]] of [[dissatisfaction]].  
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That leads to looking outside for fulfillment.
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When [[people]] [[live]] in their heads, [[feelings]] are secondary; they are interpretations of [[mental]] images that are fed back to the {{Wiki|individual}}.
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When [[awareness]] is focused on {{Wiki|memories}} of {{Wiki|past}} [[experiences]] and [[mental]] verbalization, the [[energy]] flow to the [[head chakra]] {{Wiki|increases}} and the [[energy]] flow to the [[heart chakra]] lessens.
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Without nurturing [[feelings]] of the [[heart]] a {{Wiki|subtle}} [[form]] of [[anxiety]] arises which results in the [[self]] reaching out for [[experience]].
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When the [[throat chakra]] settles and [[energy]] is distributed evenly between the head and the [[heart chakra]], one is able to truly [[contact]] one's [[senses]] and {{Wiki|touch}} {{Wiki|real}} [[feelings]].
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==[[Bön]]==
  
A result of energetic imbalance among the chakras is an almost continuous feeling of dissatisfaction. When the heart chakra is agitated, people lose touch with feelings and sensations, and that breeds the sense of dissatisfaction. That leads to looking outside for fulfilment. When people live in their heads, feelings are secondary; they are interpretations of mental images that are fed back to the individual. When awareness is focused on memories of past experiences and mental verbalisations, the energy flow to the head chakra increases and the energy flow to the heart chakra lessens. Without nurturing feelings of the heart a subtle form of anxiety arises which results in the self reaching out for experience. When the throat chakra settles and energy is distributed evenly between the head and the heart chakras, one is able to truly contact one's senses and touch real feelings.[11]
 
Bön
 
  
Chakras, according to the Himalayan Bönpo tradition, influence the quality of experience, because movement of vayu cannot be separated from experience. Each of the six major chakras are linked to experiential qualities of one of the six realms of existence.[10]
 
  
A modern teacher, Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche, uses a computer analogy: main chakras are like hard drives. Each hard drive has many files. One of the files is always open in each of the chakras, no matter how "closed" that particular chakra may be. What is displayed by the file shapes experience.
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[[Chakras]], according to the [[Himalayan]] [[Bönpo]] [[tradition]], influence the [[quality]] of [[experience]], because {{Wiki|movement}} of [[vayu]] cannot be separated from [[experience]].  
  
The tsa lung practices such as those embodied in Trul Khor lineages open channels so lung (Lung is a Tibetan term cognate with vayu) may move without obstruction. Yoga opens chakras and evokes positive qualities associated with a particular chakra. In the hard drive analogy, the screen is cleared and a file is called up that contains positive, supportive qualities. A seed syllable (Sanskrit bija) is used both as a password that evokes the positive quality and the armour that sustains the quality.[10]
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Each of the six major [[chakras]] are linked to experiential qualities of one of the [[six realms]] of [[existence]].
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A {{Wiki|modern}} [[teacher]], [[Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche]], uses a {{Wiki|computer}} {{Wiki|analogy}}: main [[chakras]] are like hard drives.
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Each hard drive has many files. One of the files is always open in each of the [[chakras]], no [[matter]] how "closed" that particular [[chakra]] may be.
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What is displayed by the file shapes [[experience]].
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The [[tsa lung practices]] such as those [[embodied]] in [[Trul Khor lineages]] open [[channels]] so [[lung]] ([[Lung]] is a [[Tibetan]] term {{Wiki|cognate}} with [[vayu]]) may move without obstruction.  
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[[Yoga]] opens [[chakras]] and evokes positive qualities associated with a particular [[chakra]].  
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In the hard drive {{Wiki|analogy}}, the screen is cleared and a file is called up that contains positive, supportive qualities.  
 +
 
 +
A [[seed syllable]] ([[Sanskrit]] [[bija]]) is used both as a password that evokes the positive [[quality]] and the Armour that sustains the [[quality]].  
 
[[File:Anahata Chakra60.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
 
[[File:Anahata Chakra60.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
Tantric practice is said to eventually transform all experience into bliss. The practice aims to liberate from negative conditioning and leads to control over perception and cognition.[10]
 
  
Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche teaches a version of the Six Lokas sadhana which works with the chakra system.
 
Qigong
 
  
Qigong also relies on a similar model of the human body as an energy system, except that it involves the circulation of qi (ki, chi) energy.[12][13] The Qi energy, equivalent to the Hindu Prana, flows through the energy channels called meridians, equivalent to the nadis, but two other energies are also important: Jing, or primordial essence, and Shen, or spirit energy.
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[[Tantric practice]] is said to eventually [[transform]] all [[experience]] into [[bliss]].
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The practice aims to {{Wiki|liberate}} from negative {{Wiki|conditioning}} and leads to control over [[perception]] and [[cognition]].
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[[Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche]] teaches a version of the [[Six Lokas sadhana]] which works with the [[chakra]] system.
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==[[Qigong]]==
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[[Qigong]] also relies on a similar model of the [[human body]] as an [[energy]] system, except that it involves the circulation of [[qi]] ([[ki]], [[chi]]) [[energy]].
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The [[Qi]] [[energy]], {{Wiki|equivalent}} to the [[Hindu]] [[Prana]], flows through the [[energy]] [[channels]] called [[meridians]], {{Wiki|equivalent}} to the [[nadis]], but two other energies are also important: [[Jing]], or [[primordial essence]], and [[Shen]], or [[spirit]] [[energy]].
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In the [[principle]] circuit of [[qi]], called the [[Microcosmic]] {{Wiki|orbit}}, [[energy]] rises up a main meridian along the spine, but also comes back down the front torso.  
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Throughout its cycle it enters various [[dantians]] ([[elixir fields]]) which act as furnaces, where the types of [[energy]] in the [[body]] ([[jing]], [[qi]] and [[shen]]) are progressively refined. 
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[These [[dantians]] play a very similar role to that of [[chakras]].
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The number of [[dantians]] varies depending on the system; the [[navel dantian]] is the most well-known (it is called the [[Hara]] in [[Japan]]), but there is usually a [[Dantian]] located at the [[heart]] and between the [[eyebrows]]. 
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The lower [[dantian]] at or below the [[navel]] transforms [[essence]], or [[jing]], into [[qi]] [[energy]].
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The middle [[dantian]] in the middle of the {{Wiki|chest}} transforms [[qi]] [[energy]] into [[shen]], or [[spirit]], and the higher [[dantian]] at the level of the {{Wiki|forehead}} (or at the top of the head), transforms [[Shen]] into [[wuji]], [[infinite space of void]].
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==[[Hesychasm]]==
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In the principle circuit of qi, called the Microcosmic orbit, energy rises up a main meridian along the spine, but also comes back down the front torso. Throughout its cycle it enters various dantians (elixir fields) which act as furnaces, where the types of energy in the body (jing, qi and shen) are progressively refined.[14] These dantians play a very similar role to that of chakras. The number of dantians varies depending on the system; the navel dantian is the most well-known (it is called the Hara in Japan), but there is usually a Dantian located at the heart and between the eyebrows.[15] The lower dantian at or below the navel transforms essence, or jing, into qi energy. The middle dantian in the middle of the chest transforms qi energy into shen, or spirit, and the higher dantian at the level of the forehead (or at the top of the head), transforms Shen into wuji, infinite space of void.[16]
 
Hesychasm
 
 
[[File:Anahata r4 c4.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
 
[[File:Anahata r4 c4.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
A completely separate contemplative movement within the Eastern Orthodox church is Hesychasm, a form of Christian meditation. Comparisons have been made between the Hesychastic centres of prayer and the position of the chakras.[17] Particular emphasis is placed upon the heart area. However, there is no talk about these centres as having any sort of metaphysical existence. Far more than in any of the cases discussed above, the centres are simply places to focus the concentration during prayer.
+
A completely separate {{Wiki|contemplative}} {{Wiki|movement}} within the Eastern {{Wiki|Orthodox}} {{Wiki|church}} is [[Hesychasm]], a [[form of Christian meditation]].  
 +
 
 +
Comparisons have been made between the [[Hesychastic]] centres of [[prayer]] and the position of the [[chakras]].
 +
 
 +
Particular {{Wiki|emphasis}} is placed upon the [[heart]] area.  
 +
 
 +
However, there is no talk about these centers as having any sort of [[metaphysical]] [[existence]].  
 +
 
 +
Far more than in any of the cases discussed above, the centers are simply places to focus the [[concentration]] during [[prayer]].
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
{{Wiki|Western}} interpretations of [[Hindu]] [[Chakras]]
 +
 
 +
{{Wiki|Western}} [[Adaptation]] of [[Hindu]] [[Yogic]] [[Chakras]]
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
==[[Esotericism]]==
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
In {{Wiki|Western culture}}, a {{Wiki|concept}} similar to that of [[prana]] can be traced back as far as the 18th century's Franz Anton Mesmer, who used "[[animal]] {{Wiki|magnetism}}" to treat {{Wiki|disease}}.
 +
 
 +
However it was only in 1927 that the [[shakta]] {{Wiki|theory}} of [[seven main chakras]], that has become most popular in the [[West]], was introduced, largely through the translation of two [[Indian]] texts:
 +
 
 +
the [[Sat-Cakra-Nirupana]], and the [[Padaka-Pancaka]], by [[Sir John Woodroffe]], alias [[Arthur Avalon]], in a [[book]] titled The [[Serpent Power]].
 +
 
 +
This [[book]] is extremely detailed and complex, and later the [[ideas]] were developed into the predominant {{Wiki|Western}} [[view]] of the [[chakras]] by [[C. W. Leadbeater]] in his [[book]] The [[Chakras]].
 +
 
 +
 
 +
Many of the [[views]] which directed Leadbeater's [[understanding]] of the [[chakras]] were influenced by previous {{Wiki|theosophist}} authors, in particular [[Johann Georg Gichtel]], a [[disciple]] of [[Jakob Böhme]], and his [[book]] [[Theosophia]] Practica (1696), in which Gitchtel directly refers to [[inner force centres]], a {{Wiki|concept}} reminiscent of the [[chakras]].  
  
Western interpretations of Hindu Chakras
 
  
Western Adaptation of Hindu Yogic Chakras
 
Main article: Esotericism
 
  
In Western culture, a concept similar to that of prana can be traced back as far as the 18th century's Franz Anton Mesmer, who used "animal magnetism" to treat disease.
+
=={{Wiki|New Age}}==
  
However it was only in 1927 that the shakta theory of seven main chakras, that has become most popular in the West, was introduced, largely through the translation of two Indian texts: the Sat-Cakra-Nirupana, and the Padaka-Pancaka, by Sir John Woodroffe, alias Arthur Avalon, in a book titled The Serpent Power.[18]
 
  
This book is extremely detailed and complex, and later the ideas were developed into the predominant Western view of the chakras by C. W. Leadbeater in his book The Chakras. Many of the views which directed Leadbeater's understanding of the chakras were influenced by previous theosophist authors, in particular Johann Georg Gichtel, a disciple of Jakob Böhme, and his book Theosophia Practica (1696), in which Gitchtel directly refers to inner force centres, a concept reminiscent of the chakras.[19]
 
New Age
 
 
[[File:Anahata01.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
 
[[File:Anahata01.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
Due to the similarities between the Chinese and Indian philosophies, the notion of chakras was quickly blended into Chinese practices such as acupuncture and belief in ki. The convergence of these two distinct healing traditions and their common practitioners' own inventiveness have led to an ever-changing and expanding array of concepts in the western world. According to medical intuitive and author, Caroline Myss, who described chakras in her work Anatomy of the Spirit (1996), "Every thought and experience you've ever had in your life gets filtered through these chakra databases. Each event is recorded into your cells...", in effect your biography becomes your biology.[20]
 
  
The chakras are described[by whom?] as being aligned in an ascending column from the base of the spine to the top of the head. New Age practices often associate each chakra with a certain colour. In various traditions chakras are associated with multiple physiological functions, an aspect of consciousness, a classical element, and other distinguishing characteristics. They are visualised as lotuses/flowers with a different number of petals in every chakra.
 
  
The chakras are thought to vitalise the physical body and to be associated with interactions of a physical, emotional and mental nature. They are considered loci of life energy or prana, also called shakti, qi (Chinese; ki in Japanese), koach-ha-guf[21] (Hebrew), bios (Greek) & aether (Greek, English), which is thought to flow among them along pathways called nadis. The function of the chakras is to spin and draw in this energy to keep the spiritual, mental, emotional and physical health of the body in balance. They are said by some to reflect how the unified consciousness of humanity (the immortal human being or the soul), is divided to manage different aspects of earthly life (body/instinct/vital energy/deeper emotions/communication/having an overview of life/contact to God). The chakras are placed at differing levels of spiritual subtlety, with Sahasrara at the top being concerned with pure consciousness, and Muladhara at the bottom being concerned with matter, which is seen simply as condensed, or gross consciousness.
+
Due to the similarities between the {{Wiki|Chinese}} and [[Indian]] [[philosophies]], the notion of [[chakras]] was quickly blended into {{Wiki|Chinese}} practices such as {{Wiki|acupuncture}} and [[belief]] in ki.
 +
 
 +
The convergence of these two {{Wiki|distinct}} [[healing]] [[traditions]] and their common practitioners' [[own]] inventiveness have led to an ever-changing and expanding array of [[Wikipedia:concept|concepts]] in the {{Wiki|western}} [[world]].
 +
 
 +
According to {{Wiki|medical}} intuitive and author, [[Caroline Myss]], who described [[chakras]] in her work Anatomy of the [[Spirit]] (1996), "Every [[thought]] and [[experience]] you've ever had in your [[life]] gets filtered through these [[chakra]] databases.
 +
 
 +
Each event is recorded into your {{Wiki|cells}}...", in effect your {{Wiki|biography}} becomes your {{Wiki|biology}}.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
The [[chakras]] are described as being aligned in an ascending column from the base of the spine to the top of the head. {{Wiki|New Age}} practices often associate each [[chakra]] with a certain {{Wiki|colour}}.
 +
 
 +
In various [[traditions]] [[chakras]] are associated with multiple {{Wiki|physiological}} functions, an aspect of [[consciousness]], a classical [[element]], and other distinguishing {{Wiki|characteristics}}.
 +
 
 +
They are [[visualised]] as [[lotuses]]/[[flowers]] with a different number of petals in every [[chakra]].
 +
 
 +
 
 +
The [[chakras]] are [[thought]] to vitalize the [[physical body]] and to be associated with interactions of a [[physical]], [[emotional]] and [[mental]] [[nature]].  
 +
 
 +
 
 +
They are considered loci of [[life energy]] or [[prana]], also called [[shakti]], [[qi]] ({{Wiki|Chinese}}; [[ki]] in [[Japanese]]), [[koach-ha-guf](Hebrew), bios ({{Wiki|Greek}}) & [[aether]] ({{Wiki|Greek}}, English), which is [[thought]] to flow among them along pathways called [[nadis]].  
 +
 
 +
 
 +
The [[function]] of the [[chakras]] is to spin and draw in this [[energy]] to keep the [[spiritual]], [[mental]], [[emotional]] and [[physical]] [[health]] of the [[body]] in [[balance]].  
 +
 
 +
They are said by some to reflect how the unified [[consciousness]] of [[humanity]] (the [[immortal]] [[human being]] or the [[soul]]), is divided to manage different aspects of [[earthly]] [[life]] (body/instinct/vital energy/deeper emotions/communication/having an overview of life/contact to [[God]]).  
 +
 
 +
The [[chakras]] are placed at differing levels of [[spiritual]] subtlety, with [[Sahasrara]] at the top being concerned with [[pure consciousness]], and [[Muladhara]] at the bottom being concerned with [[matter]], which is seen simply as condensed, or gross [[consciousness]].
 
[[File:Anahata2.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
 
[[File:Anahata2.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
In his book on Japa Yoga, Himalaya Press 1978, Swami Sivananda states that a yogi that practices Japa with only the Om and is successful at Mahasamyama {oneness with the object...in this case a Word being meditated on} becomes a direct disciple of that, the OM, the most Holy of all words/syllables { the same as the word of creation as recognised by the Torah, although this is not professed or quite possibly not even recognised by those of secular authority in either Judaism or Christianity} thus the yogi achieving this feat needs no Guru or Sat-guru* to achieve any Spiritual goal {*Archetype / Ascended Master i.e. A Krishna, a Rama, a Jesus, a Nanak a Buddha..et al.} and Swami Sivananda mentions that this yogi has a path that is, in all recognisable ways and manners, reverse of that of other Yogis or Spiritual aspirants and their paths and those include all Christian ascetics, in that this spiritual aspirant then works through the chakras, mastering them from the crown down.
 
  
Whereas every other well known path and all major religions[citation needed] start by trying to master the chakras starting with the 'Svadhisthana Chakra' {Sex}, these Yogis aren't expected to renounce sex or certain foods, and by virtue of this they do not need to remove themselves from the world of temptations and become monks or recluses. They can stay in the world of men and live what appears to be a normal life that observes whatever local custom{s} there may be. Trevor Ravenscroft also mentions this spiritual goal and achievement in his book, "The Cup of Destiny", and says that these practices and achievements were known and the most highly regarded and desired by the Templar Knights of old.]
 
  
New Age writers, such as Anodea Judith in her book Wheels of Life, have written about the chakras in great detail, including the reasons for their appearance and functions.
+
In his [[book]] on [[Japa]] [[Yoga]], [[Himalaya]] Press 1978, {{Wiki|Swami Sivananda}} states that a [[yogi]] that practices [[Japa]] with only the [[Om]] and is successful at [[Mahasamyama]] {[[oneness]] with the object...in this case a [[Word]] being [[meditated]] on} becomes a direct [[disciple]] of that,
 +
 
 +
the [[OM]], the most {{Wiki|Holy}} of all words/syllables { the same as the [[word]] of creation as recognised by the Torah, although this is not professed or quite possibly not even recognised by those of {{Wiki|secular}} authority in either {{Wiki|Judaism}} or {{Wiki|Christianity}}} thus the [[yogi]] achieving this feat needs no [[Guru]] or [[Sat-guru]]* to achieve any [[Spiritual]] goal {*{{Wiki|Archetype}} / Ascended [[Master]] i.e.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
A {{Wiki|Krishna}}, a {{Wiki|Rama}}, a {{Wiki|Jesus}}, a [[Nanak]] a [[Buddha]]..et al.} and {{Wiki|Swami Sivananda}} mentions that this [[yogi]] has a [[path]] that is, in all recognisable ways and manners, reverse of that of other [[Yogis]] or [[Spiritual aspirants]] and their [[paths]] and those include all {{Wiki|Christian}} [[ascetics]], in that this [[spiritual aspirant]] then works through the [[chakras]], mastering them from the {{Wiki|crown}} down.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
Whereas every other well known [[path]] and all major [[religions]] start by trying to [[master]] the [[chakras]] starting with the '[[Svadhisthana Chakra]]' {{{Wiki|Sex}}}, these [[Yogis]] aren't expected to {{Wiki|renounce}} {{Wiki|sex}} or certain [[foods]],
 +
 
 +
and by [[virtue]] of this they do not need to remove themselves from the [[world]] of temptations and become [[monks]] or recluses.
 +
 
 +
They can stay in the [[world]] of men and [[live]] what appears to be a normal [[life]] that observes whatever local {{Wiki|custom}}{s} there may be.
 +
 
 +
Trevor Ravenscroft also mentions this [[spiritual]] goal and [[achievement]] in his [[book]], "[[The Cup]] of [[Destiny]]", and says that these practices and achievements were known and the most highly regarded and [[desired]] by the Templar Knights of old.]
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
{{Wiki|New Age}} writers, such as Anodea Judith in her [[book]] [[Wheels]] of [[Life]], have written about the [[chakras]] in great detail, [[including]] the [[reasons]] for their [[appearance]] and functions.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
Another [[interpretation]] of the seven [[chakras]] is presented by writer and artist Zachary Selig.
 +
 
 +
In the [[book]] [[Kundalini]] [[Awakening]], a Gentle [[Guide]] to [[Chakra]] Activation and [[Spiritual]] Growth, he presents a unique codex titled "Relaxatia",  a {{Wiki|solar}} [[Kundalini]] {{Wiki|paradigm}} that is a codex of the [[human]] [[chakra]] system and the {{Wiki|solar}} [[light]] spectrum, designed to activate [[Kundalini]] through his colour-coded [[chakra]] paintings.  
  
Another interpretation of the seven chakras is presented by writer and artist Zachary Selig. In the book Kundalini Awakening, a Gentle Guide to Chakra Activation and Spiritual Growth, he presents a unique codex titled "Relaxatia", a solar Kundalini paradigm that is a codex of the human chakra system and the solar light spectrum, designed to activate Kundalini through his colour-coded chakra paintings.[22]
 
 
[[File:Anahata rays.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
 
[[File:Anahata rays.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
Some chakra system models describe one or more Transpersonal chakras above the crown chakra, and an Earth star chakra below the feet. There are also held to be many minor chakras, for example between the major chakras. Chakras are also used in neurolinguistic programming to connect NLP logical levels with spiritual goals on the crown, intellectual on the forehead and so on.[23]
 
  
Rudolf Steiner considered the chakra system to be dynamic and evolving. He suggested that this system has become different for modern people than it was in ancient times, and will in turn be radically different in future times.[clarification needed] Steiner describes a sequence of development that begins with the upper chakras and moves down, rather than moving in the opposite direction. He gave suggestions on how to develop the chakras through disciplining the thoughts, feelings, and will.
+
Some [[chakra]] system models describe one or more [[Transpersonal chakras]] above the [[crown chakra]], and an [[Earth]] {{Wiki|star}} [[chakra]] below the feet.
 +
 
 +
There are also held to be many minor [[chakras]], for example between the major [[chakras]].
 +
 
 +
[[Chakras]] are also used in neurolinguistic programming to connect NLP [[logical]] levels with [[spiritual]] goals on the {{Wiki|crown}}, [[intellectual]] on the {{Wiki|forehead}} and so on.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
{{Wiki|Rudolf Steiner}} considered the [[chakra]] system to be dynamic and evolving.  
 +
 
 +
He suggested that this system has become different for {{Wiki|modern}} [[people]] than it was in {{Wiki|ancient}} times, and will in turn be radically different in {{Wiki|future}} times.
 +
 
 +
Steiner describes a sequence of [[development]] that begins with the upper [[chakras]] and moves down, rather than moving in the opposite [[direction]].  
 +
 
 +
He gave suggestions on how to develop the [[chakras]] through [[disciplining]] the [[thoughts]], [[feelings]], and will.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
According to Florin Lowndes,  a '[[spiritual]] [[student]]' can further develop and deepen or elevate [[thinking]] [[consciousness]] when taking the step from the '{{Wiki|ancient}} [[path]]' of schooling to the 'new [[path]]' represented by The [[Philosophy]] of Freedom.
 +
 
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 +
 
 +
==[[Endocrine system]]==
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The [[primary]] importance and level of [[existence]] of [[chakras]] is posited to be in the [[Wikipedia:Psyche (psychology)|psyche]].
 +
 
 +
However, there are those who believe that [[chakras]] have a [[physical]] [[manifestation]] as well. 
 +
 
 +
The author [[Gary Osborn]], for instance, has described the [[chakras]] as [[metaphysical]] counterparts to the {{Wiki|endocrine}} glands,  while Anodea Judith noted a marked similarity between the positions of the two and the roles described for each. 
 +
 
 +
Stephen Sturgess also links the lower six [[chakras]] to specific {{Wiki|nerve}} plexuses along the {{Wiki|spinal cord}} as well as glands. 
 +
 
 +
[[C.W. Leadbeater]] associated the [[Ajna chakra]] with the [[pineal gland]],  which is a part of the {{Wiki|endocrine system}}.
 +
 
 +
{{Wiki|Edgar Cayce}} said that the seven churches of the [[Book]] of [[Revelation]] are {{Wiki|endocrine}} glands. 
 +
 
 +
However, these associations have never been {{Wiki|scientifically}} verified.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
==[[Spectrum of light]]=
  
  
According to Florin Lowndes,[25] a 'spiritual student' can further develop and deepen or elevate thinking consciousness when taking the step from the 'ancient path' of schooling to the 'new path' represented by The Philosophy of Freedom.[note 2]
 
Endocrine system
 
  
The primary importance and level of existence of chakras is posited to be in the psyche. However, there are those who believe that chakras have a physical manifestation as well.[26] The author Gary Osborn, for instance, has described the chakras as metaphysical counterparts to the endocrine glands,[27] while Anodea Judith noted a marked similarity between the positions of the two and the roles described for each.[28] Stephen Sturgess also links the lower six chakras to specific nerve plexuses along the spinal cord as well as glands.[29] C.W. Leadbeater associated the Ajna chakra with the pineal gland,[30] which is a part of the endocrine system. Edgar Cayce said that the seven churches of the Book of Revelation are endocrine glands.[31] However, these associations have never been scientifically verified.
 
Spectrum of light
 
 
[[File:Gaia-Tree.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
 
[[File:Gaia-Tree.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
A development in Western practices dating back to the 1940s is to associate each one of the seven chakras to a given colour and a corresponding crystal. For example, the chakra in the forehead is associated with the colour purple, so to try and cure a headache a person might apply a purple stone to the forehead. This idea has proven highly popular and has been integrated by all but a few practitioners.
+
A [[development]] in {{Wiki|Western}} practices dating back to the 1940s is to associate each one of the seven [[chakras]] to a given {{Wiki|colour}} and a [[corresponding]] {{Wiki|crystal}}.  
  
Mercier introduces the relation of colour energy to the science of the light spectrum:
+
For example, the [[chakra]] in the {{Wiki|forehead}} is associated with the {{Wiki|colour}} purple, so to try and cure a headache a [[person]] might apply a purple stone to the {{Wiki|forehead}}.
 +
 
 +
This [[idea]] has proven highly popular and has been integrated by all but a few practitioners.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
Mercier introduces the [[relation]] of {{Wiki|colour}} [[energy]] to the [[science]] of the [[light]] spectrum:
 +
 
 +
As [[humans]], we [[exist]] within the 49th Octave of Vibration of the {{Wiki|electromagnetic}} [[light]] spectrum.
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Below this range are barely [[visible]] radiant heat, then {{Wiki|invisible}} infrared, television and radiowaves, [[sound]] and {{Wiki|brain}} waves;
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 +
above it is barely [[visible]] ultraviolet, then the {{Wiki|invisible}} frequencies of {{Wiki|chemicals}} and [[perfumes]], followed by x-rays, gamma rays, radium rays and unknown [[cosmic]] rays.
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 +
[[Understanding]] [[existence]] and [[physical]] [[form]] as an [[interpretation]] of [[light]] [[energy]] through the [[physical]] [[eyes]] will open up greater potential to explore the energetic [[boundaries]] of {{Wiki|color}}, [[form]] and [[light]] that are [[perceived]] as immediate [[reality]].
 +
 
 +
[[Indian]] [[Yogic]] teachings assign to the seven major [[chakras]] specific qualities, such as {{Wiki|color}} of influence (from the 7 rays of spectrum [[light]]), [[elements]] (such as [[earth]], [[water]] & [[ether]]), [[body]] [[sense]]
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(such as {{Wiki|touch}}, {{Wiki|taste}}, and {{Wiki|smell}}), and [[relation]] to an {{Wiki|endocrine}} gland.
  
    As humans, we exist within the 49th Octave of Vibration of the electromagnetic light spectrum. Below this range are barely visible radiant heat, then invisible infrared, television and radiowaves, sound and brain waves; above it is barely visible ultraviolet, then the invisible frequencies of chemicals and perfumes, followed by x-rays, gamma rays, radium rays and unknown cosmic rays.[32]
 
  
    Understanding existence and physical form as an interpretation of light energy through the physical eyes will open up greater potential to explore the energetic boundaries of color, form and light that are perceived as immediate reality. Indian Yogic teachings assign to the seven major chakras specific qualities, such as color of influence (from the 7 rays of spectrum light), elements (such as earth, air, water & ether), body sense (such as touch, taste, and smell), and relation to an endocrine gland.[33]
 
  
 
Description
 
Description
  
David Gordon White traces the modern popularity of the seven chakra system to Arthur Avalon's The Serpent Power, which was Avalon's translation of a late work, the Satcakranirupana.[8] Below is a description of the seven chakras, with various associations.
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Sahasrara
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 +
[[David Gordon White]] traces the {{Wiki|modern}} [[popularity]] of the seven [[chakra]] system to [[Arthur Avalon's]] The [[Serpent Power]], which was [[Avalon's]] translation of a late work, the [[Satcakranirupana]].
 +
 
 +
Below is a description of the seven [[chakras]], with various associations.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
==[[Sahasrara]]==
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[[File:Hathyoga 024.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
 
[[File:Hathyoga 024.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
Sahasrara, which means 1000 petalled lotus, is generally considered to be the chakra of pure consciousness, within which there is neither object nor subject. When the female kundalini Shakti energy rises to this point, it unites with the male Shiva energy, and a state of liberating samadhi is attained. Symbolized by a lotus with one thousand multi-coloured petals, it is located either at the crown of the head, or above the crown of the head. Sahasrara is represented by the colour white and it involves such issues as inner wisdom and the death of the body.
 
  
Its role may be envisioned somewhat similarly to that of the pituitary gland, which secretes hormones to communicate to the rest of the endocrine system and also connects to the central nervous system via the hypothalamus. According to author Gary Osborn, the thalamus is thought to have a key role in the physical basis of consciousness and is the 'Bridal Chamber' mentioned in the Gnostic scriptures. Sahasrara's inner aspect deals with the release of karma, physical action with meditation, mental action with universal consciousness and unity, and emotional action with "beingness."[34]
+
[[Sahasrara]], which means [[1000 Petaled Lotus]], is generally considered to be the [[chakra of pure consciousness]], within which there is neither [[object]] nor [[subject]].
 +
 
 +
When the {{Wiki|female}} [[kundalini]] [[Shakti]] [[energy]] rises to this point, it unites with the {{Wiki|male}} [[Shiva]] [[energy]], and a [[state]] of liberating [[samadhi]] is [[attained]].
 +
 
 +
[[Symbolized]] by a [[lotus]] with one thousand multi-coloured petals, it is located either at the {{Wiki|crown}} of the head, or above the {{Wiki|crown}} of the head.
 +
 
 +
[[Sahasrara]] is represented by the {{Wiki|colour}} white and it involves such issues as inner [[wisdom]] and the [[death]] of the [[body]].
 +
 
 +
 
 +
Its role may be envisioned somewhat similarly to that of the pituitary gland, which secretes {{Wiki|hormones}} to {{Wiki|communicate}} to the rest of the {{Wiki|endocrine system}} and also connects to the [[central nervous system]] via the [[hypothalamus]].  
 +
 
 +
According to author [[Gary Osborn]], the ([[thalamus]] is [[thought]] to have a key role in the [[physical]] basis of [[consciousness]] and is the 'Bridal Chamber' mentioned in the [[Gnostic]] [[scriptures]].  
 +
 
 +
[[Sahasrara's]] inner aspect deals with the [[release]] of [[karma]], [[physical]] [[action]] with [[meditational action]] with [[universal consciousness]] and {{Wiki|unity}}, and [[emotional]] [[action]] with "beingness."  
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
In [[Tibetan buddhism]], the point at the [[crown of the head]] is represented by a white circle, with 33 downward pointing petals.
 +
 
 +
It is of [[primary]] importance in the performance of [[phowa]], or [[consciousness projection after death]], in order to obtain [[rebirth]] in a [[Pure Land]].
 +
 
 +
Within this [[chakra]] is contained the [[White drop]], or [[Bodhicitta]], which is the [[essence]] of {{Wiki|masculine}} [[energy]].
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
==[[Ajna]]==
  
In Tibetan buddhism, the point at the crown of the head is represented by a white circle, with 33 downward pointing petals. It is of primary importance in the performance of phowa, or consciousness projection after death, in order to obtain rebirth in a Pure Land. Within this chakra is contained the White drop, or Bodhicitta, which is the essence of masculine energy.
 
Ajna
 
  
 
[[File:5913 n.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
 
[[File:5913 n.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
Ajna is symbolised by a lotus with two petals, and corresponds to the colours violet, indigo or deep blue, though it is traditionally described as white. It is at this point that the two side nadis Ida and Pingala are said to terminate and merge with the central channel Sushumna, signifying the end of duality. The seed syllable for this chakra is the syllable OM, and the presiding deity is Ardhanarishvara, who is a half male, half female Shiva/Shakti. The Shakti goddess of Ajna is called Hakini.
 
  
Ajna (along with Bindu), is known as the third eye chakra and is linked to the pineal gland which may inform a model of its envisioning. The pineal gland is a light sensitive gland that produces the hormone melatonin which regulates sleep and waking up. Ajna's key issues involve balancing the higher and lower selves and trusting inner guidance. Ajna's inner aspect relates to the access of intuition. Mentally, Ajna deals with visual consciousness. Emotionally, Ajna deals with clarity on an intuitive level.[35]
+
[[Ajna]] is [[symbolized]] by a [[lotus]] with two petals, and corresponds to the colors violet, indigo or deep blue, though it is [[traditionally]] described as white.
 +
 
 +
It is at this point that the two side [[nadis]] [[Ida]] and [[Pingala]] are said to terminate and merge with the [[central channel]] [[Sushumna]], signifying the end of [[duality]].
 +
 
 +
The [[seed syllable]] for this [[chakra]] is the {{Wiki|syllable}} [[OM]], and the presiding [[deity]] is [[Ardhanarishvara]], who is a half {{Wiki|male}}, half {{Wiki|female}} [[Shiva/Shakti]].
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
The [[Shakti]] [[goddess]] of [[Ajna]] is called [[Hakini]].
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
[[Ajna]] (along with [[Bindu]]), is known as the [[third eye chakra]] and is linked to the [[pineal gland]] which may inform a model of its envisioning.  
 +
 
 +
The [[pineal gland]] is a [[light]] [[sensitive]] gland that produces the {{Wiki|hormone}} {{Wiki|melatonin}} which regulates [[sleep]] and waking up.  
 +
 
 +
[[Ajna's]] key issues involve balancing the higher and lower selves and trusting inner guidance.  
 +
 
 +
[[Ajna's]] inner aspect relates to the access of {{Wiki|intuition}}.  
 +
 
 +
[[Mentally]], [[Ajna]] deals with [[visual consciousness]].  
 +
 
 +
[[Emotionally]], [[Ajna]] deals with clarity on an intuitive level.  
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
Some  believe that the pineal and pituitary glands should be exchanged in their relationship to the {{Wiki|Crown}} and [[Brow chakras]], based on the description in [[Arthur Avalon's]] [[book]] on [[kundalini]] called [[Serpent Power]] or [[empirical]] research.)
 +
 
 +
In [[Tibetan Buddhism]], this point is actually the end of the [[central channel]], since the [[central channel]] rises up from the {{Wiki|sexual}} {{Wiki|organ}} to the {{Wiki|crown}} of the head, and then curves over the head and down to the [[third eye]].
  
Some[who?] believe that the pineal and pituitary glands should be exchanged in their relationship to the Crown and Brow chakras, based on the description in Arthur Avalon's book on kundalini called Serpent Power or empirical research.)
+
While the [[central channel]] finishes here, the [[two side channels]] continue down to the two nostrils.
  
In Tibetan Buddhism, this point is actually the end of the central channel, since the central channel rises up from the sexual organ to the crown of the head, and then curves over the head and down to the third eye. While the central channel finishes here, the two side channels continue down to the two nostrils.
 
  
Vishuddha
 
  
 +
==[[Vishuddha]]==
  
Vishuddha or Vishuddhi is depicted as a silver crescent within a white circle, with 16 light or pale blue, or turquoise petals. The seed mantra is Ham, and the residing deity is Panchavaktra shiva, with 5 heads and 4 arms, and the Shakti is Shakini.
+
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
[[Vishuddha]] or [[Vishuddhi]] is depicted as a {{Wiki|silver}} crescent within a white circle, with 16 [[light]] or pale blue, or {{Wiki|turquoise}} petals.  
 +
 
 +
The seed [[mantra]] is [[Ham]], and the residing [[deity]] is [[Panchavaktra shiva]], with 5 heads and 4 arms, and the [[Shakti]] is [[Shakini]].
 
[[File:Spiral.JPG|thumb|250px|]]
 
[[File:Spiral.JPG|thumb|250px|]]
Vishuddha may be understood as relating to communication and growth through expression. This chakra is paralleled to the thyroid, a gland that is also in the throat and which produces thyroid hormone, responsible for growth and maturation. Physically, Vishuddha governs communication, emotionally it governs independence, mentally it governs fluent thought, and spiritually, it governs a sense of security.[36]
 
  
In Tibetan buddhism, this chakra is red, with 16 upward pointing petals. It plays an important role in Dream Yoga, the art of lucid dreaming.
+
[[Vishuddha]] may be understood as relating to {{Wiki|communication}} and growth through expression.
 +
 
 +
This [[chakra]] is paralleled to the [[thyroid]], a gland that is also in the {{Wiki|throat}} and which produces [[thyroid]] {{Wiki|hormone}}, responsible for growth and [[maturation]].
 +
 
 +
{{Wiki|Physically}}, [[Vishuddha]] governs {{Wiki|communication}}, [[emotionally]] it governs {{Wiki|independence}}, [[mentally]] it governs fluent [[thought]], and [[spiritually]], it governs a [[sense]] of {{Wiki|security}}.
 +
 
 +
In [[Tibetan buddhism]], this [[chakra]] is [[red]], with 16 upward pointing petals.  
 +
 
 +
It plays an important role in [[Dream Yoga]], the [[art of lucid dreaming]].
 +
 
 +
 
 +
==[[Anahata]]==
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
[[Anahata]], [[Anahata-puri]], or [[padma-sundara]] is symbolised by a circular [[flower]] with twelve [[green]] petals called the [[heart-mind]].
 +
 
 +
Within it is a [[yantra]] of two intersecting triangles, forming a [[hexagram]], [[symbolizing]] a union of the {{Wiki|male}} and {{Wiki|female}}.
 +
 
 +
The seed [[mantra]] is [[Yam]], the presiding [[deity]] is [[Ishana Rudra Shiva]], and the [[Shakti]] is [[Kakini]].
 +
 
 +
 
 +
[[Anahata]] is related to the [[thymus]], located in the {{Wiki|chest}}. The [[thymus]] is an [[element]] of the {{Wiki|immune system}} as well as being part of the {{Wiki|endocrine system}}.
 +
 
 +
It is the site of [[maturation]] of the T {{Wiki|cells}} responsible for fending off {{Wiki|disease}} and may be adversely affected by [[stress]]. [[Anahata]] is related to the colors [[green]] or pink.
 +
 
 +
Key issues involving [[Anahata]] involve complex [[emotions]], [[compassion]], tenderness, unconditional [[love]], {{Wiki|equilibrium}}, rejection and well-being. {{Wiki|Physically}} [[Anahata]] governs circulation, [[emotionally]] it governs unconditional [[love]] for the [[self]] and others, [[mentally]] it governs [[passion]], and [[spiritually]] it governs [[devotion]].  
  
Anahata
 
  
  
 +
In [[Tibetan Buddhism]], this centre is extremely important, as being the [[home]] of the [[indestructible]] [[red]]/[[white drop]], which carries our [[consciousness]] to our next [[lives]].
  
Chakra04.gif
+
It is described as being white, circular, with eight downward pointing petals, and the [[seed syllable]] [[Hum]] inside.  
Anahata, Anahata-puri, or padma-sundara is symbolised by a circular flower with twelve green petals called the heartmind. Within it is a yantra of two intersecting triangles, forming a hexagram, symbolising a union of the male and female. The seed mantra is Yam, the presiding deity is Ishana Rudra Shiva, and the Shakti is Kakini.
 
  
Anahata is related to the thymus, located in the chest. The thymus is an element of the immune system as well as being part of the endocrine system. It is the site of maturation of the T cells responsible for fending off disease and may be adversely affected by stress. Anahata is related to the colours green or pink. Key issues involving Anahata involve complex emotions, compassion, tenderness, unconditional love, equilibrium, rejection and well-being. Physically Anahata governs circulation, emotionally it governs unconditional love for the self and others, mentally it governs passion, and spiritually it governs devotion.[37]
+
During [[mantra recitation]] in the [[lower tantras]], a flame is [[imagined]] inside of the [[heart]], from which the [[mantra]] rings out.
  
In Tibetan Buddhism, this centre is extremely important, as being the home of the indestructible red/white drop, which carries our consciousness to our next lives. It is described as being white, circular, with eight downward pointing petals, and the seed syllable Hum inside. During mantra recitation in the lower tantras, a flame is imagined inside of the heart, from which the mantra rings out. Within the higher tantras, this chakra is very important for realising the Clear Light.
+
Within the [[higher tantras]], this [[chakra]] is very important for realising the [[Clear Light]].
 
[[File:ZenYogaChakra.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
 
[[File:ZenYogaChakra.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
Harmonious to Functionif this chakra is activated 1. Warmth,Sincerity and Happiness 2. Strong Connection to all of Life 3. Compassion and Willingness to Help 4. Unity 5. Peceful and Balanced 6. Loving
 
  
if chakra works sufficient which improves following things
+
Harmonious to [[Function]] if this [[chakra]] is activated
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
1. Warmth,Sincerity and [[Happiness]]
 +
2. Strong Connection to all of [[Life]]
 +
3. [[Compassion]] and Willingness to Help
 +
4. Unity
 +
5. Peceful and Balanced
 +
6. [[Loving]] if [[chakra]] works sufficient which improves following things
 +
 
 +
 
 +
  1. Anti {{Wiki|Social}} and Withdrawn
 +
  2. Intolerant
 +
  3. Critical and Judgmental
 +
  4. Loneliness and isolation
 +
  5. [[feel]] rejected
 +
  6. lack of {{Wiki|empathy}}
 +
 
  
1. Anti Social and Withdrawn 2. Intolerant 3. Critical and Judgemental 4. Loneliness and isolation 5. feel rejected 6. lack of empathy
 
  
Physical Imblances if chakra is activated - Following illness are to be cured
+
[[Physical]] Imblances if [[chakra]] is activated - Following {{Wiki|illness}} are to be cured
  
1. Chest pain 2. upper back tension 3. lung Congestyion 4. pasty Complexion 5. Blood Pressure Imbalance 6. Circulation Imbalance 7. cold Sweats 8. Tight Muscles 9.immune Deficiency
 
Manipura.
 
  
Manipura or manipuraka is symbolised by a downward pointing triangle with ten petals, along with the color yellow. The seed syllable is Ram, and the presiding deity is Braddha Rudra, with Lakini as the Shakti.
+
 
 +
  1. {{Wiki|Chest}} [[pain]]
 +
  2. upper back tension
 +
  3. lung Congestyion
 +
  4. pasty Complexion
 +
  5. {{Wiki|Blood}} Pressure Imbalance
 +
  6. Circulation Imbalance
 +
  7. cold Sweats
 +
  8. Tight Muscles
 +
  9.immune Deficiency
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
==[[Manipura]]==
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
[[Manipura]] or [[manipuraka]] is symbolised by a downward pointing triangle with ten petals, along with the {{Wiki|color}} [[yellow]].  
 +
 
 +
The [[seed syllable]] is [[Wikipedia:Ram (animal)|Ram]], and the presiding [[deity]] is [[Braddha Rudra]], with [[Lakini]] as the [[Shakti]].
 
[[File:1422ges.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
 
[[File:1422ges.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
Manipura is related to the metabolic and digestive systems. Manipura is believed to correspond to Islets of Langerhans,[38] which are groups of cells in the pancreas, as well as the outer adrenal glands and the adrenal cortex. These play a valuable role in digestion, the conversion of food matter into energy for the body. The colour that corresponds to Manipura is yellow. Key issues governed by Manipura are issues of personal power, fear, anxiety, opinion-formation, introversion, and transition from simple or base emotions to complex. Physically, Manipura governs digestion, mentally it governs personal power, emotionally it governs expansiveness, and spiritually, all matters of growth.[39]
 
  
Swadhisthana
+
[[Manipura]] is related to the {{Wiki|metabolic}} and digestive systems.
 +
 
 +
[[Manipura]] is believed to correspond to {{Wiki|Islets of Langerhans}}, which are groups of {{Wiki|cells}} in the pancreas, as well as the outer adrenal glands and the adrenal cortex.
 +
 
 +
These play a valuable role in [[digestion]], the [[conversion]] of [[food]] [[matter]] into [[energy]] for the [[body]].
 +
 
 +
 
 +
The {{Wiki|colour}} that corresponds to [[Manipura]] is [[yellow]].
 +
 
 +
Key issues governed by [[Manipura]] are issues of personal power, {{Wiki|fear}}, [[anxiety]], opinion-formation, {{Wiki|introversion}}, and transition from simple or base [[emotions]] to complex.
 +
 
 +
{{Wiki|Physically}}, [[Manipura]] governs [[digestion]], [[mentally]] it governs personal power, [[emotionally]] it governs expansiveness, and [[spiritually]], all matters of growth.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
==[[Swadhisthana]]==
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
[[Swadhisthana]], [[Svadisthana]], or [[adhishthana]] is symbolised by a [[white lotus]] within which is a crescent [[moon]], with six {{Wiki|vermilion}}, or orange petals.
 +
 
 +
The seed [[mantra]] is [[Vam]], and the presiding [[deity]] is [[Brahma]], with the [[Shakti]] being [[Rakini]] (or [[Chakini]]).
 +
 
 +
The [[animal]] associated is the {{Wiki|crocodile}} of {{Wiki|Varuna}}.
 +
 
 +
This [[Chakra]] is located in the sacrum and is considered to correspond to the testes or the ovaries that produce the various {{Wiki|sex}} {{Wiki|hormones}} involved in the {{Wiki|reproductive}} cycle.
 +
 
 +
[[Swadisthana]] is also considered to be related to, more generally, the genitourinary system and the adrenals.
 +
 
 +
The key issues involving [[Swadisthana]] are relationships, {{Wiki|violence}}, {{Wiki|addictions}}, basic [[emotional]] needs, and [[pleasure]].
 +
 
 +
{{Wiki|Physically}}, [[Swadisthana]] governs reproduction, [[mentally]] it governs {{Wiki|creativity}}, [[emotionally]] it governs [[joy]], and [[spiritually]] it governs [[enthusiasm]].
  
Swadhisthana, Svadisthana, or adhishthana is symbolised by a white lotus within which is a crescent moon, with six vermilion, or orange petals. The seed mantra is Vam, and the presiding deity is Brahma, with the Shakti being Rakini (or Chakini). The animal associated is the crocodile of Varuna.
 
  
This Chakra is located in the sacrum and is considered to correspond to the testes or the ovaries that produce the various sex hormones involved in the reproductive cycle. Swadisthana is also considered to be related to, more generally, the genitourinary system and the adrenals. The key issues involving Swadisthana are relationships, violence, addictions, basic emotional needs, and pleasure. Physically, Swadisthana governs reproduction, mentally it governs creativity, emotionally it governs joy, and spiritually it governs enthusiasm.
 
  
Muladhara
+
==[[Muladhara]]==
  
Muladhara or root chakra is symbolised by a lotus with four petals and the color red. This center is located at the base of the spine in the coccygeal region. It is said to relate to the gonads and the adrenal medulla, responsible for the fight-or-flight response when survival is under threat.
 
  
Muladhara is related to instinct, security, survival and also to basic human potentiality. Physically, Muladhara governs sexuality, mentally it governs stability, emotionally it governs sensuality, and spiritually it governs a sense of security.[41] Muladhara has a relation to the sense of smell.[42]
+
 
 +
[[Muladhara]] or [[root chakra]] is symbolised by a [[lotus]] with four petals and the {{Wiki|color}} [[red]].
 +
 
 +
This center is located at the base of the spine in the coccygeal region.
 +
 
 +
It is said to relate to the gonads and the adrenal medulla, responsible for the fight-or-flight response when survival is under threat.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
[[Muladhara]] is related to {{Wiki|instinct}}, {{Wiki|security}}, survival and also to basic [[human]] potentiality.  
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
{{Wiki|Physically}},  
 +
[[Muladhara]] governs {{Wiki|sexuality}},  
 +
[[mentally]] it governs stability,  
 +
[[emotionally]] it governs [[sensuality]], and  
 +
[[spiritually]] it governs a [[sense]] of {{Wiki|security}}.  
 +
 
 +
 
 +
[[Muladhara]] has a [[relation]] to the [[sense of smell]].  
 
[[File:7-chakras.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
 
[[File:7-chakras.jpg|thumb|250px|]]
This chakra is where the three main nadis separate and begin their upward movement. Dormant Kundalini rests here, wrapped three and a half times around the black Svayambhu linga, the lowest of three obstructions to her full rising (also known as knots or granthis).[43] It is the seat of the red bindu, the female drop (which in Tibetan vajrayana is located at the navel chakra).[clarification needed]
 
  
The seed syllable is Lam (pronounced lum), the deity is Ganesh,[citation needed] and the Shakti is Dakini.[44] The associated animal is the elephant
 
  
Lower chakras
 
  
There are said to be a series of seven chakras below muladhara going down the leg,[46] corresponding the base animal instincts, and to the Hindu underworld patala. They are called atala, vitala, sutala, talatala, rasatala, mahatala and patala.
+
This [[chakra]] is where the three main [[nadis]] separate and begin their upward {{Wiki|movement}}.
Atala
+
 
 +
Dormant [[Kundalini]] rests here, wrapped three and a half times around the black [[Svayambhu]] [[linga]], the lowest of [[three obstructions]] to her full [[rising]] (also known as knots or granthis).
 +
 
 +
It is the seat of the [[red bindu]], the {{Wiki|female}} drop (which in [[Tibetan]] [[vajrayana]] is located at the [[navel chakra]]).
 +
 
 +
 
 +
The [[seed syllable]] is [[Lam]] (pronounced lum), the [[deity]] is {{Wiki|Ganesh}},  and the [[Shakti]] is [[Dakini]]. The associated [[animal]] is the [[elephant]]
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
==[[Lower chakras]]==
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
There are said to be a series of seven [[chakras]] below [[muladhara]] going down the leg, [[corresponding]] the base [[animal]] {{Wiki|instincts}}, and to the [[Hindu]] {{Wiki|underworld}} {{Wiki|patala}}.  
 +
 
 +
They are called [[atala]], [[vitala]], [[sutala]], [[talatala]], [[rasatala]], [[mahatala]] and [[patala]].
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
==[[Atala]]==
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
This [[chakra]] is located in the hips, it governs {{Wiki|fear}} and [[lust]].
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
==[[Vitala]]==
 +
 
  
This chakra is located in the hips, it governs fear and lust.
 
Vitala
 
 
[[File:Chakras114.JPG|thumb|250px|]]
 
[[File:Chakras114.JPG|thumb|250px|]]
Located in the thighs, it governs anger and resentment.
+
Located in the thighs, it governs [[anger]] and [[resentment]].
Sutala
+
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
==[[Sutala]]==
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
Located in the knees, it governs [[jealousy]].
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
==[[Talatala]]==
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
Translated as 'under the bottom level', it is located in the calves, and it is a [[state]] of prolonged {{Wiki|confusion}} and instinctive wilfulness.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
==[[Rasatala]]==
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
Located in the ankles, it is the centre of [[selfishness]] and [[pure]] [[animal]] [[nature]].
 +
 
 +
 
  
Located in the knees, it governs jealousy.
+
==[[Mahatala]]==
Talatala
+
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
Located in the feet, this is the dark [[realm]] 'without {{Wiki|conscience}}', and inner {{Wiki|blindness}}.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
==[[Patala]]==
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
Located in the soles of the feet, this is the [[realm]] of [[malice]], murder, torture and [[hatred]], and in [[Hindu]] [[mythology]] it borders on the [[realm]] of [[Naraka]], or [[Hell]].
  
Translated as 'under the bottom level', it is located in the calves, and it is a state of prolonged confusion and instinctive wilfulness.
 
Rasatala
 
  
Located in the ankles, it is the centre of selfishness and pure animal nature.
 
Mahatala
 
  
Located in the feet, this is the dark realm 'without conscience', and inner blindness.
 
Patala
 
  
Located in the soles of the feet, this is the realm of malice, murder, torture and hatred, and in Hindu mythology it borders on the realm of Naraka, or Hell.
 
 
Others
 
Others
  
There are said to be 21 minor chakras which are reflected points of the major chakras.[47] These 21 are further grouped into 10 bilateral minor chakras that correspond to the foot, hand, knee, elbow, groin, clavicular, navel, shoulder and ear. The spleen may also be classified as a minor chakra by some authorities despite not having an associated coupled minor chakra.
+
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
There are said to be 21 minor [[chakras]] which are reflected points of the major [[chakras]].
 +
 
 +
These 21 are further grouped into 10 bilateral minor [[chakras]] that correspond to the foot, hand, knee, elbow, groin, clavicular, [[navel]], shoulder and {{Wiki|ear}}.  
 +
 
 +
The {{Wiki|spleen}} may also be classified as a minor [[chakra]] by some authorities despite not having an associated coupled minor [[chakra]].
 
</poem>
 
</poem>
{{W}}
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{{R}}
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[[Category:Buddhist Terms]]
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[[Category:Buddhism]]
 
[[Category:Chakra]]
 
[[Category:Chakra]]
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[[Category:Vajrayana]]

Latest revision as of 22:47, 10 April 2023

320wi.jpg



 Chakra (Cakra, Skt); ’khor lo / rtsa ’khor (Tib).

This literally means wheel. In the Vajrayana context, it refers to the energy centres which occur at the junction of the three nadis.

There are seven Chakras generally recognised.


Within Vajrayana, five of these are regarded as especially significant.

These are the crown, throat, heart, navel and secret chakras.


chakra: Literally, “wheel” or “circle.”

It is a term for the centers of subtle or refined energy in the human body.

These centers of energy are considered to be sources for psychic or spiritual powers.

They can be manipulated by the dharma protectors to allow for the development of supernormal powers.

The Buddha taught a different system of developing the chakras than that followed by other Indian methods.

There are five chakras recognized in the Buddhist system of yoga.



chakra
輪宝 (Skt; Jpn rimbo or rin )


Also, chakra treasure or wheel treasure.

One of the seven treasures that a wheel-turning king (Skt chakravarti-raja ) is said to possess.

A wheel-turning king was a wise and benevolent ruler, an ideal king in Indian mythology.

The Sanskrit word chakra means the wheel of a carriage.

The seven treasures of a wheel-turning king are a



chakra,
elephants,
horses,
jewels,
jewel-like women,
excellent ministers of financial affairs, and
generals.



A chakra, or wheel, is of four kinds:


gold,
silver,
copper, and
iron.



A wheel-turning king possesses one or another of these four kinds of wheels, an indication of his rank.

Turning his chakra, a wheel-turning king advances without hindrance, overthrows his enemies, establishes peace, and rules with justice and benevolence wherever he goes.

In Buddhism, a chakra is regarded as a symbol of the Buddha's teachings, which vanquish earthly desires and illusions.

The word dharma-chakra, or the wheel of the Law, is often used to describe the teachings.



The Buddha's preaching is expressed as "the turning of the wheel of the Law."

In the history of Buddhism, before images of the Buddha appeared, the Buddha was depicted in carvings symbolically as a wheel, a bodhi tree, and other images.

A chakra was originally a wheel- or disk-shaped weapon in ancient India that was hurled as a missile at enemies.



Chakras, in Hindu metaphysical tradition and other belief systems, are centers of Prāṇa, life force, or vital energy.


Chakras correspond to vital points in the physical body i.e. major plexuses of arteries, veins and nerves.

Texts and teachings present different numbers of chakras.

Their name derives from the Sanskrit word for "wheel" or "turning"

The concept of chakra features in tantric and yogic traditions of Hinduism and Buddhism.



Etymology



Bhattacharyya's review of Tantric history says that the word chakra is used to mean several different things in the Sanskrit sources:

    "Circle," used in a variety of senses, symbolizing endless rotation of shakti.

    A circle of people.


In rituals there are different cakra-sādhanā in which adherents assemble and perform rites.

According to the Niruttaratantra, chakras in the sense of assemblies are of 5 types.


    The term chakra also is used to denote yantras or mystic diagrams, variously known as trikoṇa-cakra, aṣṭakoṇa-cakra, etc.
    Different "nerve plexus within the body."

87731t.jpg

In Buddhist literature the Sanskrit term cakra (Pali cakka) is used in a different sense of "circle," referring to a Buddhist conception of the Cycle of Rebirth consisting of six states in which beings may be reborn.


The linguist Jorma Koivulehto wrote (2001) of the annual Finnish Kekri celebration having borrowed the word from early Indo-Aryan. Indo-European cognates include Greek kuklos, Lithuanian kaklas, Tocharian B kokale and English "wheel," as well as "circle."


Cognates of "chakra" still exist in modern Asian languages as well.

In Malay, "[[cakera]" means "disc," e.g. "cakerva padat" = "compact disc."


History



While breath channels (nāḍis) of yogic practices had already been discussed in the classical Upanishads, it was not until the eighth-century Buddhist Hevajra Tantra and Caryāgiti, that hierarchies of chakras were introduced.



==Characteristics==



the Texts and teachings present different numbers of chakras.

Also different physical structures are considered chakras.



David Gordon White thus emphasises:


"In fact, there is no "standard" system of the cakras.

Every school, sometimes every teacher within each school, has had their own chakra system."


Anahata Chakra.jpg

The following features are common:


    They form part of the body, along with the breath channels, or nadis, and the winds (vayus).

    They are located along the central channel (sushumna/avadhūtī).

    Two side channels cross the center channel at the location of the chakras.

    They possess a number of 'petals' or 'spokes'.

    They are generally associated with a mantra seed-syllable, and often with a variety of colors and deities.



==Use in religious traditions==




==Hindu Tantra==




David Gordon White traces the modern popularity of the "Hindu" seven chakra system to Arthur Avalon's The Serpent Power, which was Avalon's translation of a late work, the Satcakranirupana.

In actuality, there are several models and systems present in Hindu tantric literature, as White documents.

Kundalini is a feature of Hindu chakra systems.



==Buddhist Tantra==

===Vajrayana===



Anahata Chakra-ges.jpg

Chakras play an important role in the main surviving branch of Indian Vajrayana, Tibetan Buddhism.

They play a pivotal role in completion stage practices, where an attempt is made to bring the subtle winds of the body into the central channel, to realize the clear light of bliss and emptiness, and to attain Buddhahood.


The Vajrayana system states that the central channel (avadhūtī) begins at the point of the third eye like of lord Shiva, curves up to the crown of the head, and then goes straight down to the lower body.


There are two side channels,


the rasanā and
lalanā,



which start at their respective nostrils and then travel down to the lower body.



The apāna vāyu governs the lower terminations of the three channels.

The lower end of the central channel ends in the rectum.

The lower end of the lalanā ends in the urinary tract.

The lower end of the rasanā channel emits semen.


The side channels run parallel to the center channel, except at locations such as the navel, heart, throat and crown (i.e. chakras) where the two side channels twist around the central channel.

At the navel, throat and crown, there is a twofold knot caused by each side channel twisting once around the central channel.

At the heart wheel there is a sixfold knot, where each side channel twists around three times.

An important part of completion stage practice involves loosening and undoing these knots.



Within the chakras exist the 'subtle drops'.


The white drop exists in the crown, the red drop exists in the navel, and at the heart exists the indestructible red and white drop, which leaves the body at the time of death.

In addition, each chakra has a number of 'spokes' or 'petals', which branch off into thousands of subtle channels running to every part of the body, and each contains a Sanskrit syllable.



Anahata Chakra0.jpg

By focusing on a specific chakra (while often holding the breath) the subtle winds enter the central channel.

The chakra at which they enter is important in order to realize specific practices.

For example, focusing on the subnavel area is important for the practice of tummo, or inner fire.

Meditating on the heart chakra is important for realising clear light.

Meditating on the throat chakra is important for lucid dreaming and the practices of dream yoga.

And meditating on the crown chakra is important for consciousness projection, either to another world, or into another body.



A result of energetic imbalance among the chakras is an almost continuous feeling of dissatisfaction.

When the heart chakra is agitated, people lose touch with feelings and sensations, and that breeds the sense of dissatisfaction.

That leads to looking outside for fulfillment.

When people live in their heads, feelings are secondary; they are interpretations of mental images that are fed back to the individual.

When awareness is focused on memories of past experiences and mental verbalization, the energy flow to the head chakra increases and the energy flow to the heart chakra lessens.


Without nurturing feelings of the heart a subtle form of anxiety arises which results in the self reaching out for experience.

When the throat chakra settles and energy is distributed evenly between the head and the heart chakra, one is able to truly contact one's senses and touch real feelings.



==Bön==



Chakras, according to the Himalayan Bönpo tradition, influence the quality of experience, because movement of vayu cannot be separated from experience.

Each of the six major chakras are linked to experiential qualities of one of the six realms of existence.


A modern teacher, Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche, uses a computer analogy: main chakras are like hard drives.

Each hard drive has many files. One of the files is always open in each of the chakras, no matter how "closed" that particular chakra may be.

What is displayed by the file shapes experience.


The tsa lung practices such as those embodied in Trul Khor lineages open channels so lung (Lung is a Tibetan term cognate with vayu) may move without obstruction.

Yoga opens chakras and evokes positive qualities associated with a particular chakra.



In the hard drive analogy, the screen is cleared and a file is called up that contains positive, supportive qualities.

A seed syllable (Sanskrit bija) is used both as a password that evokes the positive quality and the Armour that sustains the quality.

Anahata Chakra60.jpg



Tantric practice is said to eventually transform all experience into bliss.

The practice aims to liberate from negative conditioning and leads to control over perception and cognition.

Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche teaches a version of the Six Lokas sadhana which works with the chakra system.



==Qigong==



Qigong also relies on a similar model of the human body as an energy system, except that it involves the circulation of qi (ki, chi) energy.

The Qi energy, equivalent to the Hindu Prana, flows through the energy channels called meridians, equivalent to the nadis, but two other energies are also important: Jing, or primordial essence, and Shen, or spirit energy.



In the principle circuit of qi, called the Microcosmic orbit, energy rises up a main meridian along the spine, but also comes back down the front torso.

Throughout its cycle it enters various dantians (elixir fields) which act as furnaces, where the types of energy in the body (jing, qi and shen) are progressively refined.

[These dantians play a very similar role to that of chakras.


The number of dantians varies depending on the system; the navel dantian is the most well-known (it is called the Hara in Japan), but there is usually a Dantian located at the heart and between the eyebrows.

The lower dantian at or below the navel transforms essence, or jing, into qi energy.

The middle dantian in the middle of the chest transforms qi energy into shen, or spirit, and the higher dantian at the level of the forehead (or at the top of the head), transforms Shen into wuji, infinite space of void.


==Hesychasm==



Anahata r4 c4.jpg

A completely separate contemplative movement within the Eastern Orthodox church is Hesychasm, a form of Christian meditation.

Comparisons have been made between the Hesychastic centres of prayer and the position of the chakras.

Particular emphasis is placed upon the heart area.

However, there is no talk about these centers as having any sort of metaphysical existence.

Far more than in any of the cases discussed above, the centers are simply places to focus the concentration during prayer.



Western interpretations of Hindu Chakras

Western Adaptation of Hindu Yogic Chakras



==Esotericism==




In Western culture, a concept similar to that of prana can be traced back as far as the 18th century's Franz Anton Mesmer, who used "animal magnetism" to treat disease.

However it was only in 1927 that the shakta theory of seven main chakras, that has become most popular in the West, was introduced, largely through the translation of two Indian texts:

the Sat-Cakra-Nirupana, and the Padaka-Pancaka, by Sir John Woodroffe, alias Arthur Avalon, in a book titled The Serpent Power.

This book is extremely detailed and complex, and later the ideas were developed into the predominant Western view of the chakras by C. W. Leadbeater in his book The Chakras.


Many of the views which directed Leadbeater's understanding of the chakras were influenced by previous theosophist authors, in particular Johann Georg Gichtel, a disciple of Jakob Böhme, and his book Theosophia Practica (1696), in which Gitchtel directly refers to inner force centres, a concept reminiscent of the chakras.



==New Age==


Anahata01.jpg



Due to the similarities between the Chinese and Indian philosophies, the notion of chakras was quickly blended into Chinese practices such as acupuncture and belief in ki.

The convergence of these two distinct healing traditions and their common practitioners' own inventiveness have led to an ever-changing and expanding array of concepts in the western world.

According to medical intuitive and author, Caroline Myss, who described chakras in her work Anatomy of the Spirit (1996), "Every thought and experience you've ever had in your life gets filtered through these chakra databases.

Each event is recorded into your cells...", in effect your biography becomes your biology.



The chakras are described as being aligned in an ascending column from the base of the spine to the top of the head. New Age practices often associate each chakra with a certain colour.

In various traditions chakras are associated with multiple physiological functions, an aspect of consciousness, a classical element, and other distinguishing characteristics.

They are visualised as lotuses/flowers with a different number of petals in every chakra.


The chakras are thought to vitalize the physical body and to be associated with interactions of a physical, emotional and mental nature.


They are considered loci of life energy or prana, also called shakti, qi (Chinese; ki in Japanese), koach-ha-guf (Hebrew), bios (Greek) & aether (Greek, English), which is thought to flow among them along pathways called nadis.


The function of the chakras is to spin and draw in this energy to keep the spiritual, mental, emotional and physical health of the body in balance.

They are said by some to reflect how the unified consciousness of humanity (the immortal human being or the soul), is divided to manage different aspects of earthly life (body/instinct/vital energy/deeper emotions/communication/having an overview of life/contact to God).

The chakras are placed at differing levels of spiritual subtlety, with Sahasrara at the top being concerned with pure consciousness, and Muladhara at the bottom being concerned with matter, which is seen simply as condensed, or gross consciousness.

Anahata2.jpg



In his book on Japa Yoga, Himalaya Press 1978, Swami Sivananda states that a yogi that practices Japa with only the Om and is successful at Mahasamyama {oneness with the object...in this case a Word being meditated on} becomes a direct disciple of that,

the OM, the most Holy of all words/syllables { the same as the word of creation as recognised by the Torah, although this is not professed or quite possibly not even recognised by those of secular authority in either Judaism or Christianity} thus the yogi achieving this feat needs no Guru or Sat-guru* to achieve any Spiritual goal {*Archetype / Ascended Master i.e.


A Krishna, a Rama, a Jesus, a Nanak a Buddha..et al.} and Swami Sivananda mentions that this yogi has a path that is, in all recognisable ways and manners, reverse of that of other Yogis or Spiritual aspirants and their paths and those include all Christian ascetics, in that this spiritual aspirant then works through the chakras, mastering them from the crown down.



Whereas every other well known path and all major religions start by trying to master the chakras starting with the 'Svadhisthana Chakra' Sex, these Yogis aren't expected to renounce sex or certain foods,

and by virtue of this they do not need to remove themselves from the world of temptations and become monks or recluses.

They can stay in the world of men and live what appears to be a normal life that observes whatever local custom{s} there may be.

Trevor Ravenscroft also mentions this spiritual goal and achievement in his book, "The Cup of Destiny", and says that these practices and achievements were known and the most highly regarded and desired by the Templar Knights of old.]



New Age writers, such as Anodea Judith in her book Wheels of Life, have written about the chakras in great detail, including the reasons for their appearance and functions.


Another interpretation of the seven chakras is presented by writer and artist Zachary Selig.

In the book Kundalini Awakening, a Gentle Guide to Chakra Activation and Spiritual Growth, he presents a unique codex titled "Relaxatia", a solar Kundalini paradigm that is a codex of the human chakra system and the solar light spectrum, designed to activate Kundalini through his colour-coded chakra paintings.

Anahata rays.jpg


Some chakra system models describe one or more Transpersonal chakras above the crown chakra, and an Earth star chakra below the feet.

There are also held to be many minor chakras, for example between the major chakras.

Chakras are also used in neurolinguistic programming to connect NLP logical levels with spiritual goals on the crown, intellectual on the forehead and so on.


Rudolf Steiner considered the chakra system to be dynamic and evolving.

He suggested that this system has become different for modern people than it was in ancient times, and will in turn be radically different in future times.

Steiner describes a sequence of development that begins with the upper chakras and moves down, rather than moving in the opposite direction.

He gave suggestions on how to develop the chakras through disciplining the thoughts, feelings, and will.



According to Florin Lowndes, a 'spiritual student' can further develop and deepen or elevate thinking consciousness when taking the step from the 'ancient path' of schooling to the 'new path' represented by The Philosophy of Freedom.



==Endocrine system==



The primary importance and level of existence of chakras is posited to be in the psyche.

However, there are those who believe that chakras have a physical manifestation as well.

The author Gary Osborn, for instance, has described the chakras as metaphysical counterparts to the endocrine glands, while Anodea Judith noted a marked similarity between the positions of the two and the roles described for each.

Stephen Sturgess also links the lower six chakras to specific nerve plexuses along the spinal cord as well as glands.

C.W. Leadbeater associated the Ajna chakra with the pineal gland, which is a part of the endocrine system.

Edgar Cayce said that the seven churches of the Book of Revelation are endocrine glands.

However, these associations have never been scientifically verified.



==Spectrum of light=



Gaia-Tree.jpg

A development in Western practices dating back to the 1940s is to associate each one of the seven chakras to a given colour and a corresponding crystal.

For example, the chakra in the forehead is associated with the colour purple, so to try and cure a headache a person might apply a purple stone to the forehead.

This idea has proven highly popular and has been integrated by all but a few practitioners.


Mercier introduces the relation of colour energy to the science of the light spectrum:

As humans, we exist within the 49th Octave of Vibration of the electromagnetic light spectrum.



Below this range are barely visible radiant heat, then invisible infrared, television and radiowaves, sound and brain waves;

above it is barely visible ultraviolet, then the invisible frequencies of chemicals and perfumes, followed by x-rays, gamma rays, radium rays and unknown cosmic rays.


Understanding existence and physical form as an interpretation of light energy through the physical eyes will open up greater potential to explore the energetic boundaries of color, form and light that are perceived as immediate reality.

Indian Yogic teachings assign to the seven major chakras specific qualities, such as color of influence (from the 7 rays of spectrum light), elements (such as earth, water & ether), body sense

(such as touch, taste, and smell), and relation to an endocrine gland.



Description



David Gordon White traces the modern popularity of the seven chakra system to Arthur Avalon's The Serpent Power, which was Avalon's translation of a late work, the Satcakranirupana.

Below is a description of the seven chakras, with various associations.



==Sahasrara==


Hathyoga 024.jpg


Sahasrara, which means 1000 Petaled Lotus, is generally considered to be the chakra of pure consciousness, within which there is neither object nor subject.

When the female kundalini Shakti energy rises to this point, it unites with the male Shiva energy, and a state of liberating samadhi is attained.

Symbolized by a lotus with one thousand multi-coloured petals, it is located either at the crown of the head, or above the crown of the head.

Sahasrara is represented by the colour white and it involves such issues as inner wisdom and the death of the body.


Its role may be envisioned somewhat similarly to that of the pituitary gland, which secretes hormones to communicate to the rest of the endocrine system and also connects to the central nervous system via the hypothalamus.

According to author Gary Osborn, the (thalamus is thought to have a key role in the physical basis of consciousness and is the 'Bridal Chamber' mentioned in the Gnostic scriptures.

Sahasrara's inner aspect deals with the release of karma, physical action with meditational action with universal consciousness and unity, and emotional action with "beingness."



In Tibetan buddhism, the point at the crown of the head is represented by a white circle, with 33 downward pointing petals.

It is of primary importance in the performance of phowa, or consciousness projection after death, in order to obtain rebirth in a Pure Land.

Within this chakra is contained the White drop, or Bodhicitta, which is the essence of masculine energy.



==Ajna==


5913 n.jpg


Ajna is symbolized by a lotus with two petals, and corresponds to the colors violet, indigo or deep blue, though it is traditionally described as white.

It is at this point that the two side nadis Ida and Pingala are said to terminate and merge with the central channel Sushumna, signifying the end of duality.

The seed syllable for this chakra is the syllable OM, and the presiding deity is Ardhanarishvara, who is a half male, half female Shiva/Shakti.



The Shakti goddess of Ajna is called Hakini.




Ajna (along with Bindu), is known as the third eye chakra and is linked to the pineal gland which may inform a model of its envisioning.

The pineal gland is a light sensitive gland that produces the hormone melatonin which regulates sleep and waking up.

Ajna's key issues involve balancing the higher and lower selves and trusting inner guidance.

Ajna's inner aspect relates to the access of intuition.

Mentally, Ajna deals with visual consciousness.

Emotionally, Ajna deals with clarity on an intuitive level.



Some believe that the pineal and pituitary glands should be exchanged in their relationship to the Crown and Brow chakras, based on the description in Arthur Avalon's book on kundalini called Serpent Power or empirical research.)

In Tibetan Buddhism, this point is actually the end of the central channel, since the central channel rises up from the sexual organ to the crown of the head, and then curves over the head and down to the third eye.

While the central channel finishes here, the two side channels continue down to the two nostrils.



==Vishuddha==




Vishuddha or Vishuddhi is depicted as a silver crescent within a white circle, with 16 light or pale blue, or turquoise petals.

The seed mantra is Ham, and the residing deity is Panchavaktra shiva, with 5 heads and 4 arms, and the Shakti is Shakini.

Spiral.JPG


Vishuddha may be understood as relating to communication and growth through expression.

This chakra is paralleled to the thyroid, a gland that is also in the throat and which produces thyroid hormone, responsible for growth and maturation.

Physically, Vishuddha governs communication, emotionally it governs independence, mentally it governs fluent thought, and spiritually, it governs a sense of security.

In Tibetan buddhism, this chakra is red, with 16 upward pointing petals.

It plays an important role in Dream Yoga, the art of lucid dreaming.


==Anahata==




Anahata, Anahata-puri, or padma-sundara is symbolised by a circular flower with twelve green petals called the heart-mind.

Within it is a yantra of two intersecting triangles, forming a hexagram, symbolizing a union of the male and female.

The seed mantra is Yam, the presiding deity is Ishana Rudra Shiva, and the Shakti is Kakini.


Anahata is related to the thymus, located in the chest. The thymus is an element of the immune system as well as being part of the endocrine system.

It is the site of maturation of the T cells responsible for fending off disease and may be adversely affected by stress. Anahata is related to the colors green or pink.

Key issues involving Anahata involve complex emotions, compassion, tenderness, unconditional love, equilibrium, rejection and well-being. Physically Anahata governs circulation, emotionally it governs unconditional love for the self and others, mentally it governs passion, and spiritually it governs devotion.



In Tibetan Buddhism, this centre is extremely important, as being the home of the indestructible red/white drop, which carries our consciousness to our next lives.

It is described as being white, circular, with eight downward pointing petals, and the seed syllable Hum inside.

During mantra recitation in the lower tantras, a flame is imagined inside of the heart, from which the mantra rings out.

Within the higher tantras, this chakra is very important for realising the Clear Light.

ZenYogaChakra.jpg


Harmonious to Function if this chakra is activated




1. Warmth,Sincerity and Happiness
2. Strong Connection to all of Life
3. Compassion and Willingness to Help
4. Unity
5. Peceful and Balanced
6. Loving if chakra works sufficient which improves following things


   1. Anti Social and Withdrawn
   2. Intolerant
   3. Critical and Judgmental
   4. Loneliness and isolation
   5. feel rejected
   6. lack of empathy



Physical Imblances if chakra is activated - Following illness are to be cured



   1. Chest pain
   2. upper back tension
   3. lung Congestyion
   4. pasty Complexion
   5. Blood Pressure Imbalance
   6. Circulation Imbalance
   7. cold Sweats
   8. Tight Muscles
   9.immune Deficiency



==Manipura==




Manipura or manipuraka is symbolised by a downward pointing triangle with ten petals, along with the color yellow.

The seed syllable is Ram, and the presiding deity is Braddha Rudra, with Lakini as the Shakti.

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Manipura is related to the metabolic and digestive systems.

Manipura is believed to correspond to Islets of Langerhans, which are groups of cells in the pancreas, as well as the outer adrenal glands and the adrenal cortex.

These play a valuable role in digestion, the conversion of food matter into energy for the body.


The colour that corresponds to Manipura is yellow.

Key issues governed by Manipura are issues of personal power, fear, anxiety, opinion-formation, introversion, and transition from simple or base emotions to complex.

Physically, Manipura governs digestion, mentally it governs personal power, emotionally it governs expansiveness, and spiritually, all matters of growth.



==Swadhisthana==



Swadhisthana, Svadisthana, or adhishthana is symbolised by a white lotus within which is a crescent moon, with six vermilion, or orange petals.

The seed mantra is Vam, and the presiding deity is Brahma, with the Shakti being Rakini (or Chakini).

The animal associated is the crocodile of Varuna.

This Chakra is located in the sacrum and is considered to correspond to the testes or the ovaries that produce the various sex hormones involved in the reproductive cycle.

Swadisthana is also considered to be related to, more generally, the genitourinary system and the adrenals.

The key issues involving Swadisthana are relationships, violence, addictions, basic emotional needs, and pleasure.

Physically, Swadisthana governs reproduction, mentally it governs creativity, emotionally it governs joy, and spiritually it governs enthusiasm.



==Muladhara==



Muladhara or root chakra is symbolised by a lotus with four petals and the color red.

This center is located at the base of the spine in the coccygeal region.

It is said to relate to the gonads and the adrenal medulla, responsible for the fight-or-flight response when survival is under threat.


Muladhara is related to instinct, security, survival and also to basic human potentiality.



Physically,
Muladhara governs sexuality,
mentally it governs stability,
emotionally it governs sensuality, and
spiritually it governs a sense of security.


Muladhara has a relation to the sense of smell.

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This chakra is where the three main nadis separate and begin their upward movement.

Dormant Kundalini rests here, wrapped three and a half times around the black Svayambhu linga, the lowest of three obstructions to her full rising (also known as knots or granthis).

It is the seat of the red bindu, the female drop (which in Tibetan vajrayana is located at the navel chakra).


The seed syllable is Lam (pronounced lum), the deity is Ganesh, and the Shakti is Dakini. The associated animal is the elephant



==Lower chakras==



There are said to be a series of seven chakras below muladhara going down the leg, corresponding the base animal instincts, and to the Hindu underworld patala.

They are called atala, vitala, sutala, talatala, rasatala, mahatala and patala.



==Atala==




This chakra is located in the hips, it governs fear and lust.




==Vitala==


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Located in the thighs, it governs anger and resentment.



==Sutala==



Located in the knees, it governs jealousy.



==Talatala==




Translated as 'under the bottom level', it is located in the calves, and it is a state of prolonged confusion and instinctive wilfulness.



==Rasatala==



Located in the ankles, it is the centre of selfishness and pure animal nature.



==Mahatala==



Located in the feet, this is the dark realm 'without conscience', and inner blindness.




==Patala==



Located in the soles of the feet, this is the realm of malice, murder, torture and hatred, and in Hindu mythology it borders on the realm of Naraka, or Hell.




Others




There are said to be 21 minor chakras which are reflected points of the major chakras.

These 21 are further grouped into 10 bilateral minor chakras that correspond to the foot, hand, knee, elbow, groin, clavicular, navel, shoulder and ear.

The spleen may also be classified as a minor chakra by some authorities despite not having an associated coupled minor chakra.


Source