Vishuddha Chakra - the purification of the sensesThe Vishuddha Chakra is the fifth of the seven main chakras. Literally translated from Sanskrit, it means "wheel of purity." The chakra is located in the center of the cervical spine and is often referred to as the throat chakra. As an energy center, it is generally associated with communication, purification, and liberation of the senses, along with the throat and neck region. Below, you'll learn how to activate the Vishuddha Chakra and what other properties are associated with this main chakra.
Vishuddha Chakra - Location and Meaning
Centrally located in the throat area, the Vishuddha Chakra radiates its energy field throughout the entire neck and forward. The thyroid gland and the vagus nerve, the body's most important nerve pathways, are also associated with this chakra. The purity associated with it represents both the purity of your hearing and speech, as well as your spiritual purity. Only when you are able to listen to others properly and understand their thoughts with a pure mind will you be able to speak in a pure form yourself.
The Vishuddha Chakra is symbolized by a circular yantra with 16 petals and a triangle at its apex. The circle symbolizes the unity and completeness of the inner self, while the triangle represents the three primordial trinities. The number of petals corresponds to the 16 energy channels emanating from the Vishuddha Chakra and, at the same time, the 16 vowels in Sanskrit. The associated chakra animal is the elephant, symbolizing strength and infinity.
Properties and functions of the chakra
Compared to the work with the other main chakras, the Vishuddha chakra often plays a subordinate role. This is unjustified, however, as this chakra is assigned several important functions. It is considered essential for good and pure breathing, which is essential not only in meditation and yoga . Furthermore, the chakra is said to influence the physical functions of this body region, from flawless speech to the intact function of your thyroid.
The Vishuddha Chakra also plays an important role in controlling solar and lunar energy. These are equal and should flow harmoniously through your body. If this isn't the case, depending on the dominant influence, a very restless or apathetic body and mind develops. This effect is symbolically associated with an underactive or overactive thyroid. Engaging with and activating the Vishuddha Chakra can therefore have a positive impact on your energy flow and can positively influence problems ranging from sore throats to speech impediments.
Ultimately, the purifying function of your words and thoughts is a fundamental aspect of this chakra. By activating it, you should learn to choose your words wisely and only speak what is truly worthy of expression. This can give you new impetus in your everyday communication and elevate your conversations with others to a new level.
The role of the Vishuddha Chakra in yoga
Activating the throat chakra in yoga is possible through a series of asanas. The most important poses associated with this activation are the shoulder stand (Sarvangasana) , the plough pose (Halasana) , the bow pose (Dhanurasana) , and the locust pose (Shalabhasana) . It is recommended not to focus solely on this chakra and simultaneously activate the sacral chakra. The two chakras are closely connected, and activating them in parallel promotes the desired flow of energy and purification.
In addition to the asanas mentioned, there are other ways to activate the Vishuddha Chakra. These primarily include affirmations and meditations that establish a connection to the universe and space. In meditation, visualizing the universe is an important step toward activation; affirmations should focus on unity and connection with space. Chanting in general also activates the Vishuddha Chakra, especially the Bija mantra with the 16 Sanskrit vowels mentioned above.
Image © BerSonnE / istockphoto.com
