Welcome to the Heart Chakra
The journey through the chakras continues as we explore the Heart Chakra. It is the 4th energy center and is located at your heart center. The Sanskrit name is Anahata, meaning unstuck, the colors associated with it are green and pink, the scents that open and harmonize it are rose, jasmine and lavender, and the frequency it resonates with is the musical note of F. The Heart Chakra symbol signifies the union of seemingly opposite principles or types of energies, such as male and female, spirit and matter.
The star that they forms in the center evokes the harmonious joining of forces and highlights the function of the heart chakra as a center of integration and connection. The twelve petals represent the pathways where channels of life force energy, also called nadis, converge and the energy then flows in and out with each inhalation and exhalation. The purpose of this chakra is for emotional empowerment to help you form deep, caring bonds with those you love, to feel connected to the world around you, and to feel the interconnectedness and recognition that you are part of something larger and universal.
The Heart Chakra holds special significance, as it is the center of the human energy system and the chakra that bridges the lower three chakras, those associated with denser energy of the body, to the upper three chakras, those associated with the higher, lighter energies of the Spiritual realms. When energetically in balance, this chakra allows for the energy of unconditional Love, compassion, forgiveness, kindness, joy and respect. It is the home of inspiration, beauty, hope and confidence. When balanced, you are able to create a safe environment where others feel love, warmth and a sense of peace around you. You are loving to yourself, know when to say no, and know how to give yourself care and nurturance when needed.
When there is an imbalance in the Heart Chakra, you may experience feelings of envy, hate, fear, judgment, jealousy, and despair. In relationships, there may be an over-dependence on others for your happiness, a tendency to manipulate others to get what you want, an excessive need to please others, grudge-holding, or difficulty trusting yourself or others. In the body, the Heart Chakra is related to the thymus gland, which is part of the immune and endocrine system. When imbalanced, you may find problems in the heart, chest, lungs, arms and hands.
Most spiritual traditions recognize love as the ultimate healing source and a unifying force to reach the deepest places within, and connect to your true essence, your soul, your spirit. If you think that your Heart Chakra is closed, sluggish or imbalanced, there are many ways to open and harmonize it! A few physical ways are swimming, pushups or giving yourself a hug! Or allow yourself to spend quiet, peaceful time in a beautiful setting in nature...smell the roses! Or take in the scents of jasmine or lavender with essential oils during a time of Meditation. Try the meditation below to get you started! Add to any of these a daily focus on a positive affirmation such as, 'I am open to love and kindness' or 'I forgive myself', and then take a few slow, deep breaths to once again become centered in your heart and live your life through Love!
Blessings on your journey and may Love propel you to your highest potential!