Heart Chakra Meditation

Heart Chakra Meditation

Definition of chakras

In traditional Hindu and Buddhist concepts, as well as in yoga, chakras are considered energy centers located along the body's central longitudinal axis. There are seven different main chakras.
The perspective on the chakras varies somewhat depending on the underlying teaching. The key commonality is the assumption that various physical and mental symptoms, as well as organ regions, can be associated with the chakras, which are influenced by blockages on the one hand and openings on the other.
The consumption of certain teas, herbs, foods and aromas is considered just as helpful for balancing chakras as meditation or the use of special healing stones.

The heart chakra

The heart chakra is the fourth chakra and generally represents love, affection, empathy, security, and the kindness of the heart. It is located in the center of the chest at heart level. It is associated with the color light green and the element air.
The heart chakra lies exactly in the middle of the seven chakras and is considered the link between the three upper and three lower chakras. From a spiritual perspective, it is also understood as the connection between the worldly and spiritual realms.
The heart chakra is associated with various themes, including forgiveness, surrender, the ability to trust, and the ability to feel pain. Karma is also associated with the heart chakra.
Physically, the heart and lungs, as well as the chest, circulatory system, and immune system, are connected to the heart chakra. The more open and sensitive the chakra, the more beneficial the positive influence on the corresponding organs.

Heart chakra meditation during yoga

A heart chakra meditation can look different depending on the particular yoga school. Every yogi who offers a corresponding meditation offers their own variation. What they all have in common is the effort to open the heart chakra. To do this, it's important to release any blockages and free yourself from stress.
For meditation, it is essential to choose a quiet and undisturbed place. The sitting position is either the lotus position or the cross-legged position. The hands are placed loosely on the thighs. If you wish, you can open them with the palms facing up, but the back of the hands in the upper position is also fine. Close your eyes, and gently and as relaxed as possible, focus your attention on the position of the heart chakra. It is helpful to first get a feel for the current situation. Are there any disturbing influences or pain, light or heavy feelings? Fantasizing about light and brightness in general can help open the heart chakra. In your imagination, you can let the light flow through your heart and chest. The image of brightness will automatically lead to the chakra gradually opening.

Helpful meditation exercises in motion

In addition to light imagination, various breathing exercises ( pranayama ) are considered essential for opening the chakra. These are performed in conjunction with opening the chest. To do this, sit and breathe calmly, spreading your arms out at chest height. As you inhale, the arms are extended outward and then brought together again as you exhale.
Another exercise is performed while standing. Here, the eyes are open, and the focus is initially on a calm flow of breathing. Both hands are placed on the heart chakra. Feel the rhythm of the heartbeat with the palms. As you exhale, both arms are moved horizontally forward and the right leg is placed forward. As you inhale, return to the starting position.
Furthermore, all exercises based on backbends are helpful for opening the heart chakra. The classic sun salutation , which has an activating and invigorating effect, is also considered an ideal exercise for opening the heart chakra.
Yoga beginners are recommended to take a guided chakra meditation. This not only explains the position of the heart chakra, but also teaches a number of helpful meditation exercises that can be practiced together.
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