Chakras

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Chakras Chakras

-C h a k r a s

C h a k r a s

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Chakras - Index Chakras - Index

Index

T Tiittllee PPaaggee NNoo.. 1.

1. InInttroroduducctitionon a

a.. LLiinneeaaggee b

b.. CCrreeddiittss c

c.. DDiissccllaaiimmeerr 2

2.. PPrraayyeerr 3.

3. ThThe See Seveven Chn Chakakrarass a.

a. PrPracactiticacal l BeBenenefifitsts 4.

4. MuMulaladhdharara a ChChakakrara a.

a. AcAcququiririning Weg Wealalthth b

b.. GGolold od or Dr Duustst?? c

c.. GGaanneesshhaa d.

d. RRececeieiviving ng KnKnowowleledgdgee e.

e. EnEnerergigizizing tng the Bhe Bododyy ff.. OObsbsererviving ng tthe he MiMindnd 5.

5. SwSwadadhihiststhahana Cna Chahakrkraa a.

a. SSex ex aand nd FFooodod b.

b. BuBuddddhaha's R's Reaealilizazatitionon c.

c. NNot ot EEnonougugh Sh Saaltlt d.

d. ThThe Sede Seducuctition of Ton of Tasastete e.

e. KnKnowowining Whg What at WWe We Wanantt ff.. YYaayyatati'i's s CuCursrsee

6.

6. MaManinipupura Cra Chahakrkraa a.

a. FFooood and and Td Tememptaptatitionon b.

b. WWe Eae Eat Ft Food ood and and FoFood Eod Eats ats UsUs c.

c. ThThe De Delelududed ed SaSainintt d.

d. FiFire of Illre of Illumiuminatnation anion and Ellid Elliminminatiationon e.

e. ThThe Ce Crereatativive Ke Knonott ff.. ThThe Ie Innnner er PiPilglgririmamagege 7.

7. AnAnahahatata Ca Chahakrkraa a.

a. SSonons s of of VVaayuyu b.

b. EmEmototioionanal l DiDisosordrdersers c.

c. UUninivvererssal Lal Lovovee d.

d. VisVishnu – Thhnu – The Syme Symbol of Tbol of Toleoleranrancece e.

e. CenCentre tre of of TTraransfnsformormatiationon 8.

8. ViVishshududdhdha Chaa Chakrkraa a.

a. RReleligigioious Inus Intoltolereranancece b

b.. A DA Dip ip iin Gn Ganangaga c.

c. NiNilalakakahththa ha – Bl– Blue Tue Thrhroaoatt 9.

9. AjAjna na ChChaakrkraa a.

a. ThThe e InInnener r EnEnvivill b

b.. TThhe Te Thihird rd EyEyee c.

c. TThhe e PPolole e SStatarr d.

d. ThThe Kne Knot oot of Lf Libibereratatioionn 10.

10. Sahasrara Sahasrara ChakraChakra

…...…... …...…... …...…... …...…... …...…... …...…... …...…... …...…... …...…... …...…... …...…... …...…... …...…... …...…... …...…... …...…... …...…... …...…... …...…... …...…... 4 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 6 6 7 7 7 7 10 10 11 11 12 12 12 12 12 12 13 13 13 13 14 14 15 15 15 15 16 16 16 16 17 17 17 17 18 18 20 20 21 21 21 21 22 22 22 22 23 23 24 24 25 25 25 25 26 26 26 26 27 27 28 28 29 29 30 30 30 30 32 32 33 33 33 33 33 33 34 34 35 35

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Chakras - Index Chakras - Index

T

Tiittllee PPaaggee NNoo..

a.

a. ThThe Ve Vasast It Innnner Ser Skyky b

b.. PPoollaarriittyy c.

c. BeBeyoyond nd NaName me anand d FoFormrm d.

d. ChChakakra ra PuPuririfificacatitionon e.

e. StStarars as and nd PlPlananetetss

36 36 36 36 37 37 37 37 37 37

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Chakras - Introduction Chakras - Introduction

Introduction

Namaste, Namaste,

Ever wanted to know more about chakras and their practical benefits. The information is taken Ever wanted to know more about chakras and their practical benefits. The information is taken from the Book,

from the Book,"The Universe Within - The Journey Through The Chakras" "The Universe Within - The Journey Through The Chakras" by Paramhansaby Paramhansa Prajnanananda of Kriya Y

Prajnanananda of Kriya Yoga. The info is typed oga. The info is typed and represented 'as it and represented 'as it is' without any spelling oris' without any spelling or gr

gramammamatiticacal l cocorrrrecectitionons s isis: : eveven en ththouough gh wiwith th grgramammamatiticacal l ererrorors rs anand d nonot t so so gogoodod repr

represeesentantatiotion, n, wordwords s of of a a rearealizlized ed sousoul l has much has much mormore e impimpact and act and capcapablable e of of chachangingingng seeker's life and give insights than a well written and attractively presented book by a sanskrit seeker's life and give insights than a well written and attractively presented book by a sanskrit scholar and a very good professional writer. I am not a scholar, not a natural writer. I am just scholar and a very good professional writer. I am not a scholar, not a natural writer. I am just another devotee walking on spiritual path. I prefer to keep things as it

another devotee walking on spiritual path. I prefer to keep things as it is and be a disciple thanis and be a disciple than to be a Guru.

to be a Guru. A Brief Info

A Brief Info about Paramhansa Prajnanananda:about Paramhansa Prajnanananda:

Paramhansa Prajnanananda

Paramhansa Prajnanananda (or phonetic: paramhansa (or phonetic: paramhansa praGYAnapraGYAnanda, Hindi:nda, Hindi:

परमह

परमहस

स जन

जन

))

In 1995,

In 1995, Brahmachari TBrahmachari Triloki Dash was initiated riloki Dash was initiated as a sannyasi, monk, by Paramahamsaas a sannyasi, monk, by Paramahamsa Hariharananda. Receiving the name Swami Prajnananan

Hariharananda. Receiving the name Swami Prajnanananda Giri, he was directed da Giri, he was directed by hisby his

Gurudev the next day to travel to Europe, the USA, and other countries in order to propagate Gurudev the next day to travel to Europe, the USA, and other countries in order to propagate Kriya Yoga through public lectures, seminars, retreats, and

Kriya Yoga through public lectures, seminars, retreats, and meditation. Long before meditation. Long before TTrilokiriloki Dash became a monk, Paramahamsa Hariharananda predicted, "Whatever is started by me has Dash became a monk, Paramahamsa Hariharananda predicted, "Whatever is started by me has to be completed by him."

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Chakras - Introduction Chakras - Introduction

Three years

Three years laterlater, , ParParamahamahamsa Prajnanaamsa Prajnanananda was nanda was givegiven n the the titltitle e of of ParParamahaamahamsa, themsa, the highest title given to monks and saints who attain the apogee of God-realization, by his highest title given to monks and saints who attain the apogee of God-realization, by his Gurudev on August 10, 1

Gurudev on August 10, 1998, on his birthday.998, on his birthday.

Lineage:

Every Lineage of Kriya Yoga Starts with Mahavatar Babaji - The Deathless Saint. Lineage of Every Lineage of Kriya Yoga Starts with Mahavatar Babaji - The Deathless Saint. Lineage of Prajnanananda ji is not an exception.

Prajnanananda ji is not an exception.

Babaji Maharaj, Shri Shyamacharan, Lahiri Mahasaya, Swami Shriyukteshwar Giri, Babaji Maharaj, Shri Shyamacharan, Lahiri Mahasaya, Swami Shriyukteshwar Giri, Paramahamsa Yogananda,

Paramahamsa Yogananda, ParamahamsParamahamsa a HariharanandaHariharananda and Paramahamsa Prajnanananda.and Paramahamsa Prajnanananda. (Useful Link:

(Useful Link: Brief intro about Paramhansa HariharanandaBrief intro about Paramhansa Hariharananda ) )

Credits:

All credits to the original author -

All credits to the original author - Paramhansa Prajnanananda GiParamhansa Prajnanananda Giri, Prajna Publication - Ari, Prajna Publication - Austria,ustria, Sai Towers Publishing, and all those involved in the creation of this book. Any errors are mine. Sai Towers Publishing, and all those involved in the creation of this book. Any errors are mine. Not Affiliated to any foundation.

Not Affiliated to any foundation.

Disclaimer:

The info abou

The info about t chachakrakras s is takeis taken n frofrom m thithis s holholy y boobook k is out is out of inspiof inspiratiration, on, purpurely on ely on non non--comme

commercial basis with the rcial basis with the sole intentisole intention on to be to be helpfuhelpful to l to fellfellow seekers, right souls and ow seekers, right souls and like- like-minded people.

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Chakras - Prayer Chakras - Prayer

Prayer

Baba Hariharananda ji used to pray a beautiful prayer: Baba Hariharananda ji used to pray a beautiful prayer:

"O God my forgetfulness is my "O God my forgetfulness is my sin,sin, please give me constant al

please give me constant alertness." ertness."

Let us also pray the same and

Let us also pray the same and begin with the inner begin with the inner journey of chakras along with their journey of chakras along with their practicalpractical benefits.

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Chakras - The Seven Chakras Chakras - The Seven Chakras

The Seven Chakras

The One is revealed within the effulgent golden light. The One is revealed within the effulgent golden light. The Absolute Brahman, who is Self-luminous, pure consciousness, who is the

The Absolute Brahman, who is Self-luminous, pure consciousness, who is the light of lights and light of lights and whose supreme reality is known to

whose supreme reality is known to men of Self-realization.men of Self-realization. (Mundaka Upanishad, II-II-19)

(Mundaka Upanishad, II-II-19)

A myriad books have been written on the mystries of the chakras and how they can be used A myriad books have been written on the mystries of the chakras and how they can be used for healing oneself. This is not one of those books, it rather focuses on detailed insights which for healing oneself. This is not one of those books, it rather focuses on detailed insights which cla

clarifrify y how workinhow working g on on eaceach h one of one of thethese se cencenters of ters of eneenergyrgy, , mamay y infinflueluence nce the seekethe seeker'sr's spiritual awakening. Some books depict the chakras as lotuses with a

spiritual awakening. Some books depict the chakras as lotuses with a varying number of petalsvarying number of petals withholding strange powers, other books decry them as mystical non-sense and completely withholding strange powers, other books decry them as mystical non-sense and completely lacking any actual physical basis. Other sources warn of the dangers involved in arousing the lacking any actual physical basis. Other sources warn of the dangers involved in arousing the kundalini energy which is said to be stored in serpent form at the base of the spine.

kundalini energy which is said to be stored in serpent form at the base of the spine.

Rather than dwell on the metaphysical subtleness of the chakras or on intricate descriptions of Rather than dwell on the metaphysical subtleness of the chakras or on intricate descriptions of their forms, on the number of petals in each lotus or on other useless information, this book their forms, on the number of petals in each lotus or on other useless information, this book focuses on the various human qualities associated with each energy centre and points out how focuses on the various human qualities associated with each energy centre and points out how to recognize, control and direct the peculiarities of each chakra so that the seeker may travel to recognize, control and direct the peculiarities of each chakra so that the seeker may travel safely towards the goal of absolute happiness.

safely towards the goal of absolute happiness.

Practical Benefits

The main aim of this book is to stress the practical benefits one may derive from developing The main aim of this book is to stress the practical benefits one may derive from developing one's chakras through spiritual endeavors fulfillment, creative inspiration and finally spiritual one's chakras through spiritual endeavors fulfillment, creative inspiration and finally spiritual realization by understanding and energizing

realization by understanding and energizing the chakras.the chakras.

Each chakra is a storehouse of immense potential, which can fulfill our deepest desires or Each chakra is a storehouse of immense potential, which can fulfill our deepest desires or plunge us into the deepest despair. Once we learn the art of controlling these chakras through plunge us into the deepest despair. Once we learn the art of controlling these chakras through the process of meditation, there is no limit to the infinite possibilities for physical, material, the process of meditation, there is no limit to the infinite possibilities for physical, material, emotional, and spiritual success.

emotional, and spiritual success. Although it is true that

Although it is true that these chakras or energy centres cannot by these chakras or energy centres cannot by anatomically pinpointed, it isanatomically pinpointed, it is also true that there are seven main chakras along human spine formed by the myriad of nerve also true that there are seven main chakras along human spine formed by the myriad of nerve channels flowing down from the brain when they get very close to each other at certain points channels flowing down from the brain when they get very close to each other at certain points alo

along ng the the spispine. ne. WheWhen n thithis s haphappenpens, s, new new circircuicuits ts of of magmagnetnetic ic fiefields lds are are crecreateated. d. TheThesese magnetic fields or chakras are subtle energy centres in the spine.

magnetic fields or chakras are subtle energy centres in the spine.

There are seven major energy centres, which are called either chakras or lotuses and, in There are seven major energy centres, which are called either chakras or lotuses and, in modern times, have also been referred to as plexuses. They are:

modern times, have also been referred to as plexuses. They are:

Muladhara chakra, coccygial or money centre in the coccyx (base of the

Muladhara chakra, coccygial or money centre in the coccyx (base of the spine).spine). Swadhisthana chakra, sacr

Swadhisthana chakra, sacral or second centre in al or second centre in the sacral region.the sacral region. Manipura chakra, lumbar or naval centre in the lumber r

Manipura chakra, lumbar or naval centre in the lumber region.egion. Vishuddha chakra, neck or cervical centre in the

Vishuddha chakra, neck or cervical centre in the cervix.cervix. Ajna chakra or soul centre close to

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Chakras - The Seven Chakras Chakras - The Seven Chakras

Sahasrara chakr

Sahasrara chakra, crown centre at a, crown centre at the top of the hethe top of the head.ad.

The spinal canal or the backbone is formed by a total of 33 vertebrae out of which four are The spinal canal or the backbone is formed by a total of 33 vertebrae out of which four are joined together

joined together. The . The Muladhara is located Muladhara is located at the at the base of base of the spine the spine or coccyx or coccyx where five where five bonesbones fuse together with the sacrum. The 24 vertebrae represent the 24 principles in the body. One fuse together with the sacrum. The 24 vertebrae represent the 24 principles in the body. One who can

who can controcontrol l these vertebrthese vertebrae with ae with his concentrhis concentratioation n can likewise control the can likewise control the 24 24 principrinciplesples whi

which ch conconsissist t of of the the fivfive e elemelementents s (ea(earthrth, , watwaterer, , firfire, e, air air and and skysky), ), ten senses (fivten senses (five e of of perception – tongue, skin, nose, ears and eyes; five of action – mouth, legs, hands, genital perception – tongue, skin, nose, ears and eyes; five of action – mouth, legs, hands, genital orga

organs ns and and anuanus), five s), five vitvital al breabreaths ths and and foufour r inninner er insinstrutrumenments ts (m(mindind, , intintellellectect, , ego ego andand memory).

memory).

Rather than going into an elaborate technical discussion of the properties of each chakra, I will Rather than going into an elaborate technical discussion of the properties of each chakra, I will focus on the immediate benefits we can derive from knowledge of what each chakra controls focus on the immediate benefits we can derive from knowledge of what each chakra controls and how we can maintain control over all the chakras, thereby gaining immeasurable peace and how we can maintain control over all the chakras, thereby gaining immeasurable peace and happiness. The chakras are the medium o

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Chakras - Muladhara Chakra Chakras - Muladhara Chakra

Muladhara Chakra

Mulad

Muladhara chakrhara chakra, at a, at the base of the base of the spine, is the spine, is ruled by ruled by the earth element, has strong impactthe earth element, has strong impact on our material accomplishments through possession of wealth, prosperity, fame, success, on our material accomplishments through possession of wealth, prosperity, fame, success, popularity and power. Our longings for these things keep us anchored here in the lowest popularity and power. Our longings for these things keep us anchored here in the lowest centre.

centre. L

Looccaattiioonn : : BBaasse e oof f tthhe e ssppiinnee N

Nuummbbeer r oof f ppeettaallss : : FFoouurr E

Elleemmeenntt : : EEaarrtthh C

Coolloorr : : GGoollddeen n YYeellllooww P

Prreessiiddiinng g DDeeiittyy : : GGaanneesshhaa Qu

Qualalitity y of of NaNatuture re (G(Gununa)a) : : TTamamas as (I(Inenertrtiaia)) S

Seeeed d ssyyllllaabbllee : : LLaamm S

Seennsse e oorrggaannss : : NNoosse e ((oorrggaan n oof f ssmmeellll)), , aannuus s ((oorrggaan n oof f eexxccrreettiioonn)) T Taassttee :: SSwweeeett Benefits due to Benefits due to concentration concentration

: Physical comfort, External beauty, Money and Happiness of a : Physical comfort, External beauty, Money and Happiness of a lower grade.

lower grade. N

Naamme e oof f tthhe e FFiirree : : DDaakksshhiinnaaggnni i ((FFiirre e oof f tthhe e SSoouutthh)) V

Vrriittttiis s ((TTeennddeenncciieess)) : : PPlleeaassuurre e tthhrroouuggh h mmaatteerriiaal l ppoosssseessssiioonnss, , DDeessiirre e tto o ppoosssseessss,, Charity prompted by ego and vanity; and Greed

Charity prompted by ego and vanity; and Greed L

Lookka (a (PPllaanne oe of ef exxiissttenenccee)) : B: Bhhuuhh V

Viittaal l bbrreeaatthh : : aappaanna a ((hheellpps s oof f eexxccrreettiioonn)) G

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V

Viirrttuuee : : SShhaamma a ((CCoonnttrrool l oof f tthhe e MMiinndd)) Z

Zooddiiaacc : : AAqquuaarriiuus s aannd d LLeeoo R

Ruulliinng g PPllaanneett : : SSaattuurrnn

The Muladha

The Muladhara Chakrara Chakra, which is , which is localocated at ted at the base of the base of the spine, is one the spine, is one of the of the most powerfmost powerfulul centers, since it represents the last confluence of three holy rivers – or three pranic channels centers, since it represents the last confluence of three holy rivers – or three pranic channels passing through spine. We need to take a dip in these rivers, that is, concentrate at this passing through spine. We need to take a dip in these rivers, that is, concentrate at this centre, before we begin our spiritual journey upwards. In Sanskrit, Mula means root, and centre, before we begin our spiritual journey upwards. In Sanskrit, Mula means root, and adhara means support or base. Whether within the body is represented by the earth or mula. adhara means support or base. Whether within the body is represented by the earth or mula. The base of spine contains the earth element. This centre is also called the money centre The base of spine contains the earth element. This centre is also called the money centre because it is associated with the material world.

because it is associated with the material world.

Acquiring Wealth

In order to acquire anything in this world, we need money. We need money for our education, In order to acquire anything in this world, we need money. We need money for our education, to buy a house or a car or in case of wedding. We require money energy also for our simplest to buy a house or a car or in case of wedding. We require money energy also for our simplest daily food and for some primary needs even if reduced to the minimum. The Muladhara is the daily food and for some primary needs even if reduced to the minimum. The Muladhara is the chakra representing money

chakra representing money, but money, in this particular case, doesn't mean currency , but money, in this particular case, doesn't mean currency or coins,or coins, but the physical resources or the buying capacity of a person. To be able to specify how much but the physical resources or the buying capacity of a person. To be able to specify how much money we exactly need, we have to be either highly spiritual or complete lunatics.

money we exactly need, we have to be either highly spiritual or complete lunatics.

Everyone says they want money, but no one is ever capable of specifying how much. Our Everyone says they want money, but no one is ever capable of specifying how much. Our needs and their complementary greed keep on increasing. The Muladhara takes up most of our needs and their complementary greed keep on increasing. The Muladhara takes up most of our time, life and energy. We spend the majority of our waking moments earning money to either time, life and energy. We spend the majority of our waking moments earning money to either pay off loans from the past, to enjoy ourselves in the present or to save up for the future. Our pay off loans from the past, to enjoy ourselves in the present or to save up for the future. Our exi

existestence nce is is rulruled ed by by thithis s cencentretre. . In In comcomparparisoison n othother er actactiviivitieties s sucsuch h as as eateatinging, , slesleepieping,ng, creative work, even building a re

creative work, even building a relationship, in comparison, take up much less time.lationship, in comparison, take up much less time. W

We e neeneed d to to regregulaulate te thithis s cencenter ter and and carcarefuefully lly anaanalyzlyze e our our effeffectective ive phyphysicsical al and and finfinancancialial needs. Material wealth should be like a pair of shoes that fit us perfectly, nor too big nor too needs. Material wealth should be like a pair of shoes that fit us perfectly, nor too big nor too small. If shoes are small they hurt and if they are too big, the are uncomfortable.

small. If shoes are small they hurt and if they are too big, the are uncomfortable.

The development of the Muladhara chakra enhances our material prosperity by strengthening The development of the Muladhara chakra enhances our material prosperity by strengthening our earning potential. Assets, fame, luxuries and power are all benefits of a highly developed our earning potential. Assets, fame, luxuries and power are all benefits of a highly developed Mul

Muladhadharara a chachakrakra. . WhiWhile le focfocusiusing ng on on MulMuladhadhara ara chachakrkra, a, thithis s chachakra kra opeopens ns us us uptupto o thethe abundance of the Universe and makes us grateful recipients, as mere prosperity of fame abundance of the Universe and makes us grateful recipients, as mere prosperity of fame without adequate understanding of their purpose can be extremely detrimental if not even without adequate understanding of their purpose can be extremely detrimental if not even outright dangerous. There are many influx of fame and money, and who have not been able to outright dangerous. There are many influx of fame and money, and who have not been able to handle the sudden influx of fame and money, and who have turned either to drugs or alcohol handle the sudden influx of fame and money, and who have turned either to drugs or alcohol for support. Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monoroe, and many other celebrities and millionaires ended for support. Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monoroe, and many other celebrities and millionaires ended their lives in despair despite being blessed with remarkable wealth.

their lives in despair despite being blessed with remarkable wealth.

Those who are engaged in regular meditation practices centered on the highest goal of self Those who are engaged in regular meditation practices centered on the highest goal of self meditation, succeed in opening the chakras in a steady and informed way and gain steadiness meditation, succeed in opening the chakras in a steady and informed way and gain steadiness of mind which makes the vagaries of affluence seem quite irrelevant. Such people are able to of mind which makes the vagaries of affluence seem quite irrelevant. Such people are able to

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handle the material benefits of the Muladhara without losing their balance and know how to handle the material benefits of the Muladhara without losing their balance and know how to use the wealth and power gained to benefit all of mankind, further than themselves. Their use the wealth and power gained to benefit all of mankind, further than themselves. Their serene and meditative outlook helps them focus on the good of humanity and dissipates their serene and meditative outlook helps them focus on the good of humanity and dissipates their selfish interests. To such people material wealth is nothing more than a reflection of the selfish interests. To such people material wealth is nothing more than a reflection of the abundance of the earth and gold, unless useful for a higher purpose, is little more than dust to abundance of the earth and gold, unless useful for a higher purpose, is little more than dust to them. A story from Puranas well illustrates this truth.

them. A story from Puranas well illustrates this truth.

Gold or Dust?

A husband and his wife, a very spiritual couple, were walking along a country road. On the A husband and his wife, a very spiritual couple, were walking along a country road. On the wayway the husband saw a gold coin. Assuming that his wife would be temped by gold id she saw it, he the husband saw a gold coin. Assuming that his wife would be temped by gold id she saw it, he quickly covered it by kicking some dust over the gold coin with his shoe. His wife saw him quickly covered it by kicking some dust over the gold coin with his shoe. His wife saw him scuffling and asked what he was hiding. So the husband has to confess that he had covered a scuffling and asked what he was hiding. So the husband has to confess that he had covered a gold coin with dust, so it would not become a source of temptation for her. The wife, who was gold coin with dust, so it would not become a source of temptation for her. The wife, who was much more spirituality advanced than her husband, replied: “Do you still see the difference much more spirituality advanced than her husband, replied: “Do you still see the difference between gold and dust? They are both same to me.

between gold and dust? They are both same to me.

Ganesha

Ganesha is the presiding deity of Muladhara chakra. In the Indian spiritual tradition, Ganesha Ganesha is the presiding deity of Muladhara chakra. In the Indian spiritual tradition, Ganesha is worshiped for success before any important undertaking. In Hindu religion the form of is worshiped for success before any important undertaking. In Hindu religion the form of Ganesha or the form of any deity is not only attractive and fascinating, but has a profound Ganesha or the form of any deity is not only attractive and fascinating, but has a profound symbolic meaning. The rational mind is often unable to comprehend the subtle spiritual truths symbolic meaning. The rational mind is often unable to comprehend the subtle spiritual truths and the practical teachings that lie behind these images. Ganesha is depicted as having a and the practical teachings that lie behind these images. Ganesha is depicted as having a hum

human an bodbody y witwith h an an eleelephaphant'nt's s heahead, d, a a strstrangange e comcombinbinatiation on indindeed, eed, but but the the undunderlerliniiningng meaning for this symbolic image is very interesting and hints to great truths. An elephant has meaning for this symbolic image is very interesting and hints to great truths. An elephant has big ears, a long trunk and very small eyes if compared to the rest of body. The elephant's long big ears, a long trunk and very small eyes if compared to the rest of body. The elephant's long trunk symboli

trunk symbolizes the zes the imporimportance of tance of breath controlbreath control, , while it's huge, while it's huge, flappy ears represent theflappy ears represent the receptive attitude necessary to absorb valuable knowledge and the small eyes indicate keen receptive attitude necessary to absorb valuable knowledge and the small eyes indicate keen observation. Let's see how these three

observation. Let's see how these three factors relate to our own factors relate to our own spiritual journeyspiritual journey..

Receiving Knowledge

Big ears highlight the

Big ears highlight the need to listen more. need to listen more. TTo achieve real success in life, o achieve real success in life, we need to we need to talk muchtalk much less and listen a lot more, but there is a further step required, as whatever one imbibes by less and listen a lot more, but there is a further step required, as whatever one imbibes by listening more, can be termed as learning, but true wisdom dawns only when actual Truth is listening more, can be termed as learning, but true wisdom dawns only when actual Truth is revealed and experienced in deep meditation.

revealed and experienced in deep meditation.

Once we have stilled the mind, we need to listen to the divine sound, the continuous primeval Once we have stilled the mind, we need to listen to the divine sound, the continuous primeval vibration that resounds in the outer and inner universe. All our life we have been suffocating vibration that resounds in the outer and inner universe. All our life we have been suffocating this vital sound with the constant rattling noise of worldly life, deafening music and even this vital sound with the constant rattling noise of worldly life, deafening music and even boisterous thoughts, but the divine sound has always been there waiting to be heard.

boisterous thoughts, but the divine sound has always been there waiting to be heard.

We need to ponder daily the ancient scriptures and possibly have them explained directly from We need to ponder daily the ancient scriptures and possibly have them explained directly from teacher, a realized Master, as spiritual truths cannot be properly imbibed by reading any book teacher, a realized Master, as spiritual truths cannot be properly imbibed by reading any book

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as

as rarandndomom. . EvEverery y daday y nenew w vovolulumemes s arare e priprintnted ed desdescrcribibining g alall l kikindnds s of of trtrananscscenendendentatall experiences. Most people regard the spiritual arena as an open forum to show off their own experiences. Most people regard the spiritual arena as an open forum to show off their own fantasies, as they perceive it like a place without rules, where one is free to indulge in one's fantasies, as they perceive it like a place without rules, where one is free to indulge in one's own private reveries.

own private reveries.

It is true that spiritual experiences are highly personal and may differ from one person to It is true that spiritual experiences are highly personal and may differ from one person to an

anototheherr, , hohoweweveverr, , chchoooosising ng ththe e spspiriritituaual l papath th ininvovolvlves es a a lolot t of of didiscscririmiminanatitionon, , ininnenerr understanding and determined effort. Self-realization is the ultimate goal for

understanding and determined effort. Self-realization is the ultimate goal for everyone, but it iseveryone, but it is not an easy task, although the benefits far outweigh any effort required. We cannot expect not an easy task, although the benefits far outweigh any effort required. We cannot expect immediate results not seek shortcuts avoiding efforts. We should choose the scriptural text immediate results not seek shortcuts avoiding efforts. We should choose the scriptural text that most appeals to us and meditate over one verse at a time, brooding over its deepest that most appeals to us and meditate over one verse at a time, brooding over its deepest meanings, so that the most profound inner truths may be revealed to us. All the ancient meanings, so that the most profound inner truths may be revealed to us. All the ancient scriptures, the Bible, the Gita, the

scriptures, the Bible, the Gita, the Koran or the TKoran or the Torah contain the distilled wisdom of the ages.orah contain the distilled wisdom of the ages.

Energizing the Body

Ganesha's long trunk represents the importance of dee

Ganesha's long trunk represents the importance of dee p breathing. The modern world p breathing. The modern world has onlyhas only recently discovered the immense benefits to the entire physical and mental health spectrum of recently discovered the immense benefits to the entire physical and mental health spectrum of deep, rhythmic breathing. The fitness industry has been revolutionized by this “new discovery” deep, rhythmic breathing. The fitness industry has been revolutionized by this “new discovery” and hundreds of new methods are being taught which incorporate this technique rather than and hundreds of new methods are being taught which incorporate this technique rather than strenuous physical exercises to keep the body and mind fit and active, yet in reality, this has strenuous physical exercises to keep the body and mind fit and active, yet in reality, this has already been discovered by the ancient sages of all religions thousands of years ago. Every already been discovered by the ancient sages of all religions thousands of years ago. Every scientific meditation technique incorporates this deep breathing, which floods the

scientific meditation technique incorporates this deep breathing, which floods the brain and thebrain and the blood cells with the necessary oxygen and gives instant relaxation to the mind. Every serious blood cells with the necessary oxygen and gives instant relaxation to the mind. Every serious spiritual aspirant needs to incorporate deep breathing into his or her daily routine.

spiritual aspirant needs to incorporate deep breathing into his or her daily routine.

Observing the Mind

Ganesha's small eyes represent keen, precise observation. We need to focus our attention on Ganesha's small eyes represent keen, precise observation. We need to focus our attention on the workings of our own mind, watch how it runs here and there, never immobile, a continuous the workings of our own mind, watch how it runs here and there, never immobile, a continuous flow of unceasing thoughts. Our goal is to eventually still that turbulent flow of thoughts, flow of unceasing thoughts. Our goal is to eventually still that turbulent flow of thoughts, focusing our mind, first on fewer and fewer thoughts till we are able to keep out attention focusing our mind, first on fewer and fewer thoughts till we are able to keep out attention concentrated on only one thought. In meditation, we try to still the mind, bringing it from one concentrated on only one thought. In meditation, we try to still the mind, bringing it from one thought to the complete cessation of all thoughts. It is only in absolute silence that we can thought to the complete cessation of all thoughts. It is only in absolute silence that we can hear the divine sound, enabling us to take control of this chakra and then to move on to the hear the divine sound, enabling us to take control of this chakra and then to move on to the higher centres.

higher centres.

Two sense organs are regulated by the Muladhara chakra, the anus and the nose; both are Two sense organs are regulated by the Muladhara chakra, the anus and the nose; both are associated with smell; which is the quality of the earth element. These sense organs are associated with smell; which is the quality of the earth element. These sense organs are regulated through the simple

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Chakras - Swadhisthana Chakra Chakras - Swadhisthana Chakra

Swadhisthana Chakra

This chakra is also known as the sexual centre: situated in the spine, behind the genital This chakra is also known as the sexual centre: situated in the spine, behind the genital organs, it is ruled by water and has a strong hold over our emotions and passions. This centre organs, it is ruled by water and has a strong hold over our emotions and passions. This centre often demands a good part

often demands a good part of time and energy.of time and energy.

L

Looccaattiioonn : : SaSaccrraal l rreeggiioonn N

Nuummbbeer r oof f ppeettaallss : : SSiixx E

Elleemmeenntt : : WWaatteerr C

Coolloorr : : CCoolloouurrlleessss P

Prreessiiddiinng g DDeeiittyy : : DDuurrggaa Qu

Qualalitity y of of NaNatuture re (G(Gununa)a) : : RaRajajas s (A(Actctivivitity)y) S

Seeeed d ssyyllllaabbllee : : VVaamm S

Seennsse e oorrggaannss : : TToonngguue e aannd d ggeenniittaallss T Taassttee : : AAssttrriinnggeenntt Benefits due to Benefits due to concentration concentration

: Control over water element and

: Control over water element and Fulfilment of material desires.Fulfilment of material desires. N

Naamme e oof f tthhe e FFiirree : : GGrriihhaappaatti i aaggnni i ((hhoouusseehhoolld d ffiirree)) V

Vrriittttiis s ((TTeennddeenncciieess)) : D: Doouubbtt, , DDiissoobbeeddiieennccee, , CCrruueellttyy, , DDeessttrruuccttiivve e ddeessiirree, , IIlllluussiivvee pleasure and Involvement

pleasure and Involvement L

Lookka (a (PPllaanne oe of ef exxiissttenenccee)) : B: Bhhuuvvaa V

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G

Gllaannddss :: GGoonnaadd V

Viirrttuuee : : DDaamma a ((CCoonnrrool l oof f SSeennsseess)) Z

Zooddiiaacc : : PPiissccees s aannd d VViirrggoo R

Ruulliinng g PPllaanneett : : JJuuppiitteerr

The Swadhisthana chakra is located in the spine in the sacral region behind the genital organs. The Swadhisthana chakra is located in the spine in the sacral region behind the genital organs. Swadhisthana in Sanskrit means the place where the mind is established for a long time. After Swadhisthana in Sanskrit means the place where the mind is established for a long time. After the Muladhara, this is the centre, which demands most of our time and energy. The water the Muladhara, this is the centre, which demands most of our time and energy. The water element predominates in this region and it is subtler than the earth element. While earth has a element predominates in this region and it is subtler than the earth element. While earth has a shape, size and independent existence, water needs a container and takes the shape of the shape, size and independent existence, water needs a container and takes the shape of the con

contaitainerner. . In In eaceach h chachakrakra, , thethere re is is a a symsymbolbol. . In In the the SwSwadhadhististhanhana a the the symsymbol bol is is of of twotwo triangles like those found in the Jewish Star of David. One triangle represents the female triangles like those found in the Jewish Star of David. One triangle represents the female aspect and the other represents the male aspect. In Hinduism, God or the Absolute divides into aspect and the other represents the male aspect. In Hinduism, God or the Absolute divides into male and female aspects, then we have creation. Shakti, the female aspect, is a must for male and female aspects, then we have creation. Shakti, the female aspect, is a must for creation and therefore the presiding deity of the second centre is Durga which is another name creation and therefore the presiding deity of the second centre is Durga which is another name of Shakti.

of Shakti.

Sex and Food

The two sense organs ruled by this centre are the tongue and the genitals. Moderation in The two sense organs ruled by this centre are the tongue and the genitals. Moderation in eating and in sexual

eating and in sexual activityactivity, avoiding the pitfalls of , avoiding the pitfalls of gluttony and sexual overindulgence, is onegluttony and sexual overindulgence, is one of the prime requisites in attaining lasting peace and tranquillity. This is not to say that unless of the prime requisites in attaining lasting peace and tranquillity. This is not to say that unless one lives the austere life of a monk, subsisting on roots and tubers and practising strict one lives the austere life of a monk, subsisting on roots and tubers and practising strict celibacy, one cannot attain realization. In fact, the overly zealous practice of austerities can be celibacy, one cannot attain realization. In fact, the overly zealous practice of austerities can be as much of a handicap as overindulgence in sensual pleasures. Those who eat too much, as as much of a handicap as overindulgence in sensual pleasures. Those who eat too much, as well as those who continually fast,cannot progress spiritually. The life of Buddha is a perfect well as those who continually fast,cannot progress spiritually. The life of Buddha is a perfect example.

example.

Buddha's Realization

Prince Gautama left behind all his worldly possessions and pleasures in the pursuit of truth. He Prince Gautama left behind all his worldly possessions and pleasures in the pursuit of truth. He gave up his kingdom, his family and the luxurious life he knew. With the great determination gave up his kingdom, his family and the luxurious life he knew. With the great determination he decided to sit and meditate until he achieved self-knowledge, declaring: “I will sit here. Let he decided to sit and meditate until he achieved self-knowledge, declaring: “I will sit here. Let the body dry up. Let my skin, flesh, and bones be destroyed. I will be self-realized” (Buddha the body dry up. Let my skin, flesh, and bones be destroyed. I will be self-realized” (Buddha Charita)

Charita) He

He sasat t fofor r fofortrty y dadays ys wiwiththout fooout food d or or drdrinink, k, but when latbut when later er on on he he relrelatated ed whwhat at he he hahadd experienced during those forty days to

experienced during those forty days to his disciple, Ananda he also specified: “I was so weak, Ihis disciple, Ananda he also specified: “I was so weak, I was hardly able to move my limbs. When I touched my

was hardly able to move my limbs. When I touched my stomach, I could feel my backbone. Mystomach, I could feel my backbone. My scalp was so dry that the hair was falling off. My eyes has receded deep inside my skull and scalp was so dry that the hair was falling off. My eyes has receded deep inside my skull and those who saw me thought

those who saw me thought that I was a ghost” (Buddha Charita that I was a ghost” (Buddha Charita of Ashvaghosh)of Ashvaghosh)

After this experience Gautama Buddha realized the folly of this extreme measures, since he After this experience Gautama Buddha realized the folly of this extreme measures, since he

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had discovered he could not concentrate in such physical agony. He accepted the food offered had discovered he could not concentrate in such physical agony. He accepted the food offered by Sujata, a noble lady of a nearby village and slowly came back to normal. Buddhism, by Sujata, a noble lady of a nearby village and slowly came back to normal. Buddhism, therefore, advocates the middle way, which avoids all sorts of extremes, in order to gain therefore, advocates the middle way, which avoids all sorts of extremes, in order to gain self-knowledge.

knowledge.

Not Enough Salt

Fo

For r medmeditaitatiotion n and spiritand spiritual ual proprogresgress, s, we we neeneed d modmoderaeratiotion n in in foofood d as as welwell l as as in in sexsexualual enjoyment. Spiritual seekers must be able to control the mind and make it listen to new enjoyment. Spiritual seekers must be able to control the mind and make it listen to new instructions. A small example: if there is a little less salt in the food, instead of over reacting, instructions. A small example: if there is a little less salt in the food, instead of over reacting, we need to instruct the mind to accept it.

we need to instruct the mind to accept it.

Ten years ago I visited a Shiva temple near Cuttack in Orissa. After the worship, when the Ten years ago I visited a Shiva temple near Cuttack in Orissa. After the worship, when the pu

pundnditits s prpresesentented ed me me wiwith th ththe e coconsnsececrarateted d ofoffeferiring ng on on a a babananana na leleafaf, , ththey ey asaskeked d ththee brahmacharis to bring me some salt. I objected that I did not need any extra salt. The pundit brahmacharis to bring me some salt. I objected that I did not need any extra salt. The pundit replie

replied that d that the food did the food did not containot contain any n any salt at all. When I salt at all. When I asked whyasked why, he , he explaiexplained that thened that the kin

king g who who had consthad construcructed ted the the temtemple ple cencenturituries es ago had ago had arrarranganged ed for for all proviall provisiosions ns andand supplies for the temple, but left out any provision for salt. Since that time, in the temple, it supplies for the temple, but left out any provision for salt. Since that time, in the temple, it had become a tradition to cook all the offerings without any salt. After I heard the story, I had become a tradition to cook all the offerings without any salt. After I heard the story, I ans

answerwered: ed: “If “If LorLord d ShiShiva va HimHimselself f has been has been accacceptepting ing the the foofood d offoffered ered herhere e for for cencenturturiesies without salt, I can surely manage for

without salt, I can surely manage for one day without it.one day without it.” ”

It is essential to have some control over the tongue. One way of practising control over the It is essential to have some control over the tongue. One way of practising control over the tongue is to give up our favourite food for a while. If we are addicted to sweets, we should try tongue is to give up our favourite food for a while. If we are addicted to sweets, we should try giving up sweets for a certain period of time. If we have a strong habit of drinking coffee or giving up sweets for a certain period of time. If we have a strong habit of drinking coffee or tea, we might try foregoing it for a few days. In this way we can gradually gain control over tea, we might try foregoing it for a few days. In this way we can gradually gain control over the tongue.

the tongue.

The Seduction of Taste

In our search for pleasure, we go on abusing the seven centers, which have been given to us In our search for pleasure, we go on abusing the seven centers, which have been given to us for our

for our own personown personal al grogrowth wth and realizand realizatiation. on. The digestThe digestivive e firfire e burburns ns witwithin hin us us to to turturnn nutritious healthy food into fuel for the body, and yet in our craving for taste, we dump nutritious healthy food into fuel for the body, and yet in our craving for taste, we dump unwholesome, greasy, unhealthy chemical laden food and beverages in our bodies, If we think unwholesome, greasy, unhealthy chemical laden food and beverages in our bodies, If we think about it, the taste sensation hardly lasts a few seconds, the first two or three bites are all we about it, the taste sensation hardly lasts a few seconds, the first two or three bites are all we actually taste and, after that, we might as well be eating tasteless cardboard. Yet we go on actually taste and, after that, we might as well be eating tasteless cardboard. Yet we go on eating automatically, pouring food down our throats unaware of its taste. There are lessons in eating automatically, pouring food down our throats unaware of its taste. There are lessons in all we do and everything we experience, so we should try and understand what we are to learn all we do and everything we experience, so we should try and understand what we are to learn from this particular one. Life is

from this particular one. Life is full of illusion; web of illusion is sheer full of illusion; web of illusion is sheer light, delicate and feeble,light, delicate and feeble, it sparkles with a thousand rays of enticement and promises. It pulls us in so many different it sparkles with a thousand rays of enticement and promises. It pulls us in so many different ways, luring us with its ephemeral quality, intangible yet palpable, promising so much yet ways, luring us with its ephemeral quality, intangible yet palpable, promising so much yet giving so little.

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Knowing What We Want

It is so rare that we stop and ask: “What is it that I want? What is it really that I am looking It is so rare that we stop and ask: “What is it that I want? What is it really that I am looking for?” Instead we lunge at the nearest promise of happiness, whether it is food or sex or for?” Instead we lunge at the nearest promise of happiness, whether it is food or sex or mar

marriariage ge or or busbusineiness ss andand, , whewhen n thathat t propromismise e is is brobroken or ken or unfunfulfulfillilled, ed, we we stistill ll refrefuse touse to examine ourselves, but blame the circumstances, blame the situation or

examine ourselves, but blame the circumstances, blame the situation or our partners, unwillingour partners, unwilling to look within and perceive what it is we really and truly want. We all want uninterrupted to look within and perceive what it is we really and truly want. We all want uninterrupted happiness, that unending bliss which cannot be found without, but within. The sooner we learn happiness, that unending bliss which cannot be found without, but within. The sooner we learn to permanent joy of the soul, the sooner we will reach our goal and fulfill the desire that has to permanent joy of the soul, the sooner we will reach our goal and fulfill the desire that has driven us on from the day were born until the moment that, exhausted, we give up this weary driven us on from the day were born until the moment that, exhausted, we give up this weary body

body. So be moderate in . So be moderate in enjoyment, as without this resolve, spiritual progress is very enjoyment, as without this resolve, spiritual progress is very difficult.difficult.

Y

Yayati's Curse

ayati's Curse

There is a beautiful story in the Mahabharata about a king called Yayati who had married There is a beautiful story in the Mahabharata about a king called Yayati who had married Devayani, the daughter of a Brahmin Sage called Shikra. Devayani brought with her as a Devayani, the daughter of a Brahmin Sage called Shikra. Devayani brought with her as a maidservant a princess called Sharmishtha. In the course of time, King Yayati fell in love with maidservant a princess called Sharmishtha. In the course of time, King Yayati fell in love with his wife's

his wife's beautiful maidservant and, beautiful maidservant and, eventuallyeventually, even , even had children had children from herfrom her. Devayani's father. Devayani's father,, became enraged with Yayati's conduct and cursed him with premature old age. Yayati's mind, became enraged with Yayati's conduct and cursed him with premature old age. Yayati's mind, however

however, still longed , still longed for sensual pleasures and for sensual pleasures and was unhappy to have an was unhappy to have an old body, so he beggedold body, so he begged his father-in-law to forgive him and withdraw his curse. The father-in-law relented, saying that his father-in-law to forgive him and withdraw his curse. The father-in-law relented, saying that if any of Yayati's sons would be willing

if any of Yayati's sons would be willing to take the to take the curse upon himself, then Yaycurse upon himself, then Yayati could regainati could regain his lost youth. The story goes that one of the sons of Sarmishtha, called Puru, agreed to this his lost youth. The story goes that one of the sons of Sarmishtha, called Puru, agreed to this and the king could have his youth back which he used to continue his sense enjoyment. When and the king could have his youth back which he used to continue his sense enjoyment. When he finally did reach a ripe old age with an ample of eventful life behind him, Yayati uttered a he finally did reach a ripe old age with an ample of eventful life behind him, Yayati uttered a truth, which he had discovered through his life-long experience. As, despite all his sense truth, which he had discovered through his life-long experience. As, despite all his sense indulgement, passion was still burning undimmed within him, he dies giving this following indulgement, passion was still burning undimmed within him, he dies giving this following adv

advice to ice to his sons his sons and grandand grandsonsons: s: “Ch“Childildren, do ren, do not not belbelievieve e thathat t by by indindulgulging ing in in sensensese pleasures, you can extinguish the fire of passion. In reality yielding to a desire is like adding pleasures, you can extinguish the fire of passion. In reality yielding to a desire is like adding fuel to the fire. The more you indulge, the brighter it burns.” Sexual desire is like smoldering fuel to the fire. The more you indulge, the brighter it burns.” Sexual desire is like smoldering fire and this fire burns out of control, life becomes miserable. We need to use this fire in fire and this fire burns out of control, life becomes miserable. We need to use this fire in regulated way, by disciplining the mind step by step. The sexual centre's passion and energy regulated way, by disciplining the mind step by step. The sexual centre's passion and energy can be channeled toward the higher centres, where creativity and philosophy will emerge. can be channeled toward the higher centres, where creativity and philosophy will emerge.

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Chakras - Manipura Chakra Chakras - Manipura Chakra

Manipura Chakra

This chakra is also known as the Navel Center: it is the food center where we derive our This chakra is also known as the Navel Center: it is the food center where we derive our physical energy, beauty, lustre and vitality.

physical energy, beauty, lustre and vitality.

L

Looccaattiioonn : : NaNavveel l rreeggiioonn N Nuummbbeer r oof f ppeettaallss : : TTeenn E Elleemmeenntt : : FFiirree C Coolloorr :: RReedd P

Prreessiiddiinng g DDeeiittyy : S: Suurryya a oor r SSuunn Qu

Qualalitity y of of NaNatuture re (G(Gununa)a) : : RaRajajas s (A(Actctivivitity)y) S

Seeeed d ssyyllllaabbllee : : RRaanngg S

Seennsse e oorrggaannss : : EEyyees s aannd d ffeeeett T

Taassttee :: BBiitttteerr Benefits due to

Benefits due to concentration concentration

:

: KnoKnowlewledge dge of of the the intinternernal al funfunctiction on of of phyphysisical cal bodbodyy, , bettbetterer health and physical beauty

health and physical beauty N

Naamme e oof f tthhe e FFiirree : : VVaaiisshhwwaannaarra a ((ddiiggeessttiivve e ffiirree)) Vr

Vritittitis s ((TTenendedencncieiess)) : Sh: Shyynenesss, Hs, Haatrtreded, F, Feaearr, Sl, Sleeeepipinenessss, So, Sorrrrowow, I, Idldlenenesesss, Be, Beaaututyy,, Memory

Memory, Prosperity , Prosperity and Vitalityand Vitality L

Lookka (a (PPllaanne oe of ef exxiissttenenccee)) : S: Suuvvaa V

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Chakras Chakras

-G

Gllaannddss : : LLiivveerr, , SSpplleeeen n aannd d PPaannccrreeaass V

Viirrttuuee : : UUppaarraatti i ((uurrddhhvvaarraattii--uuppwwaarrd d jjoouurrnneey y / / eevvoolluuttiioonn)) Z

Zooddiiaacc : : AArriiees s aannd d LLiibbrraa R

Ruulliinng g PPllaanneett : : MMaarrss

The Manipura chakra or the navel centre is located behind the navel in the spine of human The Manipura chakra or the navel centre is located behind the navel in the spine of human body. Manipura in Sanskrit means jewel centre. The presiding deity is Surya, the sun. The sun body. Manipura in Sanskrit means jewel centre. The presiding deity is Surya, the sun. The sun is the ultimate source of all activitie

is the ultimate source of all activities and s and the primary causthe primary cause of e of life on this life on this planplanet. Just as et. Just as thethe moon shines reflecting the sun's light and has a strong influence on the mind, also food which moon shines reflecting the sun's light and has a strong influence on the mind, also food which is directly affected by sunlight, has a strong influence on the mind. This chakra is otherwise is directly affected by sunlight, has a strong influence on the mind. This chakra is otherwise referred to as the food centre.

referred to as the food centre.

People chant mantras like Gayatri to attract the divine illumination of the

People chant mantras like Gayatri to attract the divine illumination of the sun. By concentratingsun. By concentrating on

on ththis is cecentntre re anand d exexperperieiencncining g ouour r ininnener r sosourcurce e of of enenerergygy, , we we cacan n alalso so obobtatain in didivivinene illumination for the body and mind.

illumination for the body and mind.

The two sense organs controlled by this centre are the eyes and the feet. Since we are born The two sense organs controlled by this centre are the eyes and the feet. Since we are born ou

our r eyeyes es arare e coconsnstatantntly ly acactitive ve in in sesensnsorory y perperceceptiptionon. . EvEven en as as chchilildrdren en huhumaman n bebeiningsgs immediately become attached to names and forms and smile only at familiar faces, but burst immediately become attached to names and forms and smile only at familiar faces, but burst into tears when confronted with

into tears when confronted with a strangera stranger. As grown ups, all . As grown ups, all human beings mistakenly tend tohuman beings mistakenly tend to make judgements based solely on appearance, always seeking out only

make judgements based solely on appearance, always seeking out only what pleases the eye.what pleases the eye. The beauty industry thrives on this tendency, luring us to spend small fortunes on products The beauty industry thrives on this tendency, luring us to spend small fortunes on products that will make us more attractive in the eyes of others. Today the fashion industry, the fitness that will make us more attractive in the eyes of others. Today the fashion industry, the fitness industry, the entertainment industry and tourist industry and almost every consumer based industry, the entertainment industry and tourist industry and almost every consumer based market in the world, depends

market in the world, depends on our slavery to the sense on our slavery to the sense of sight. If, instead of being attachedof sight. If, instead of being attached to names and forms, we are able to see the

to names and forms, we are able to see the beauty of God in everything, all these multi-millionbeauty of God in everything, all these multi-million dollar industries, as well as their dire by-products such as eating disorders and depression, dollar industries, as well as their dire by-products such as eating disorders and depression, would disappear overnight.

would disappear overnight.

It has been scientifically observed that the eyes of a restless person or mentally depressed It has been scientifically observed that the eyes of a restless person or mentally depressed person move very quickly and blink frequently. In the desperate urge to drink more and more person move very quickly and blink frequently. In the desperate urge to drink more and more stimuli, we become confused and mentally anxious. The eyes of those who meditate blink less. stimuli, we become confused and mentally anxious. The eyes of those who meditate blink less. They have a detached look. By gradually controlling the mind through meditation and deep They have a detached look. By gradually controlling the mind through meditation and deep brea

breathithing, ng, we we are are ablable e to to gaigain n detdetachachmenment t frofrom m the sightthe sights s whiwhich ch sursurrouround nd us, therebus, therebyy avoiding sensory overload.

avoiding sensory overload.

By focusing on the navel centre during meditation we can gain control over our restlessness By focusing on the navel centre during meditation we can gain control over our restlessness and

and dirdirect ect our our visvision ion inwinward ard to to the the immimmensense e inninner er splsplendendor or and and stastart rt undunderserstantandinding g thethe profound spiritual truths one may find within. Then, when we do look at the world again, we profound spiritual truths one may find within. Then, when we do look at the world again, we are able to perceive the magnificence of God's creation, see the essential inner beauty in all are able to perceive the magnificence of God's creation, see the essential inner beauty in all those who surround us and appreciate even the situations that confront us. We soon learn to those who surround us and appreciate even the situations that confront us. We soon learn to love our surroundings without becoming excessively attached, so that we may enjoy the world love our surroundings without becoming excessively attached, so that we may enjoy the world without being enslaved by the world.

without being enslaved by the world.

Our feet lead us towards many different directions. The urge to move here and there, never Our feet lead us towards many different directions. The urge to move here and there, never being able to sit still, is purely a physical reflection of the mind's inability to focus and remain being able to sit still, is purely a physical reflection of the mind's inability to focus and remain

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Chakras Chakras

-calm and still in one place. People travel all over the globe on the mistaken assumption that calm and still in one place. People travel all over the globe on the mistaken assumption that travelling thousands of miles will

travelling thousands of miles will somehow make them happiersomehow make them happier..

Some people cannot last in one job for very long, they need change, excitement, diversity and Some people cannot last in one job for very long, they need change, excitement, diversity and are soon bored with their current environment. They drift from job to job, from town to town, are soon bored with their current environment. They drift from job to job, from town to town, continually seeking an elusive fulfillment. On a more basic level, we may have noticed how continually seeking an elusive fulfillment. On a more basic level, we may have noticed how many people are simply unable to sit still. Their legs are moving even they sit on chair, they many people are simply unable to sit still. Their legs are moving even they sit on chair, they tap their feet or always shake their legs in nervous need for motion. Meditation enhances the tap their feet or always shake their legs in nervous need for motion. Meditation enhances the ability to sit still on one position for an extended period of time. When the mind is tranquil, so ability to sit still on one position for an extended period of time. When the mind is tranquil, so is the body.

is the body.

Meditating on the Manipura develops our ability to remain tranquil and peaceful, to direct our Meditating on the Manipura develops our ability to remain tranquil and peaceful, to direct our every movement for a useful purpose. Rather than looking here and there to seek satisfaction, every movement for a useful purpose. Rather than looking here and there to seek satisfaction, yet finding it nowhere, by meditating in the Manipura chakra, we are able to progress thanks yet finding it nowhere, by meditating in the Manipura chakra, we are able to progress thanks to the concentration and energy one can gain from this centre.

to the concentration and energy one can gain from this centre.

Food and Temptation

There is a story in the Hindu epic, the Ramayana, which illustrates the immense power food There is a story in the Hindu epic, the Ramayana, which illustrates the immense power food has on the mind and how food can lead man to temptation. This story proves that the old has on the mind and how food can lead man to temptation. This story proves that the old adage 'the way to a man's heart is through his stomach' to be true.

adage 'the way to a man's heart is through his stomach' to be true.

There was once a great sage called Vibhandaka, who underwent strict austerities and engaged There was once a great sage called Vibhandaka, who underwent strict austerities and engaged himself in deep meditation in

himself in deep meditation in order to achieve realization. One order to achieve realization. One dayday, tempted by , tempted by the beauty of athe beauty of a celestial nymph, he lost his concentration and self-control and ran after her. They had a child, celestial nymph, he lost his concentration and self-control and ran after her. They had a child, whom he named Rushyasrunga. Having learned from the bitter experience that hidden desires whom he named Rushyasrunga. Having learned from the bitter experience that hidden desires may cause spiritual downfalls, he decided to raise his son far away from attractions of the may cause spiritual downfalls, he decided to raise his son far away from attractions of the world. Rushyasrunga grew up in the forests under strict guidance of his father. He was always world. Rushyasrunga grew up in the forests under strict guidance of his father. He was always engaged in meditation, study and other spiritual practices and therefore was brought up totally engaged in meditation, study and other spiritual practices and therefore was brought up totally unaware of life's luxuries, delicious food, alcohol or be

unaware of life's luxuries, delicious food, alcohol or be autiful women.autiful women.

Meanwhile, in a nearby kingdom, there was a severe drought, so the distressed king consulted Meanwhile, in a nearby kingdom, there was a severe drought, so the distressed king consulted his advisors who predicted that there would be rain if the young saint Rushyasrunga, who his advisors who predicted that there would be rain if the young saint Rushyasrunga, who possessed great spiritual wealth and purity, entered the kingdom. However on one knew how possessed great spiritual wealth and purity, entered the kingdom. However on one knew how to tempt him and take him away from the strict supervision of his father. The problem was to tempt him and take him away from the strict supervision of his father. The problem was solved when a beautiful courtesan named Jarata offered to undertake the task. She asked the solved when a beautiful courtesan named Jarata offered to undertake the task. She asked the king for a luxurious boat lavishly equipped with a great variety of delicious foods and beautiful king for a luxurious boat lavishly equipped with a great variety of delicious foods and beautiful damsels dressed in their finest clothes and jewellery. Docking at a distance, she waited or damsels dressed in their finest clothes and jewellery. Docking at a distance, she waited or Rushyasrunga's father to leave and then approached the young saint. The stunningly beautiful Rushyasrunga's father to leave and then approached the young saint. The stunningly beautiful women fed him delicacies he had never tasted before and re

women fed him delicacies he had never tasted before and re turned each dayturned each day, bringing him new, bringing him new and tasty dishes to

and tasty dishes to tempt his palate. Having eaten rich food, the tempt his palate. Having eaten rich food, the young man developed bodyyoung man developed body consciousness and then attachment to this body. One day, the courtesan invited hi, on their consciousness and then attachment to this body. One day, the courtesan invited hi, on their boat and, once he was aboard,they set the sail for the kingdom. The moment Rushyasrunga boat and, once he was aboard,they set the sail for the kingdom. The moment Rushyasrunga set foot on

set foot on the ground, rain came pouring down, ending the the ground, rain came pouring down, ending the terribterrible drought. The le drought. The king askedking asked the young saint's forgiveness for the ruse and offered him his daughter in marriage.

the young saint's forgiveness for the ruse and offered him his daughter in marriage.

The old sage accepted the inevitable, realizing once again that, however far we may run from The old sage accepted the inevitable, realizing once again that, however far we may run from temptation, unless we cultivate inner strength, we cannot resist the lure of the senses. Food is temptation, unless we cultivate inner strength, we cannot resist the lure of the senses. Food is