Sashasrara chakra is like a prism, refracting the universal energies of the higher chakras into the separate energies of the body chakras. The seventh chakra is not located within the physical body, but above it. The element of this chakra is consciousness itself. It is our awareness, the thing within each of us that observes the experiences of the body and mind, yet is separate from it. It is this expression of the self, as it is understood in Eastern philosophies, that is continually reborn in recarnation.
It is difficult in modern life to get a sense of the separateness of our consciousness, our higher self. We keep it so busy with distracted thoughts, idle forms of entertainment, and an excessive list of perceived needs and wants, that we tend to identify ourselves with what we do and think. Deep relaxation techniques and meditation can guide awareness back to the higher self and open a gateway to the higher energies of the universe. Detachment from the senses as well as from the analysis and judgment of the mind liberates this higher self.
Physiology*
The seventh chakra is connected to the pineal gland, which is a small cone-shaped projection out of the mid brain. In humans, this gland usually develops until the age of seven. It is roughly the size of a pea, but in some yogis, as reported by Swami Gitananda, the gland can grow to the size of a robin's egg.
Scientific studies have shown that the pineal gland is responsive to light levels, color, and sound, which in turn affect the neuropeptides and hormones produced by the entire endocrine system.
The pineal gland produces melatonin, which has a very mellowing effect on the other glands and was called soma by ancient yogis, which roughly translates to "drink of the gods." Headstands are practiced by many yogis to retain this sacred fluid and encourage its production.
Psychology
At the seventh chakra, we find a meeting place of all the chakra energies. Rather than looking at these energies separately, like a rainbow, they merge to form one, like the white light of the sun before it is refracted through a prism.
This merging of parts is complemented by our tendency to form a world view that is inclusive our philosophies, beliefs, values, and experiences. At the seventh chakra, everything becomes part of a whole, related and unified.
As expressed in the individual, seventh chakra energy that is flowing and balanced results in an opened-minded person that has an appreciation for spirituality and enjoys peaceful and meditative activities. Such people also enjoy music and dance as well as intellectual pursuits.
If this energy is too strong, a person may be too removed from the body and stuck inside his head, dwelling in negative thought patterns. He may also be overly sensitive and introverted or obsessed with studious pursuits.
If the energy in the seventh chakra is weak, a person may have no interest in spirituality and be too attached to material things. Such people often lack common sense, curiousity, rhythm, and a sense of purpose in life.
Yoga for the Seventh Chakra
The yoga of Sahasrara is Mantra Yoga. The seventh chakra is closely related to sound, which both science and yoga show to have dramatic effects on the entire being.
The word mantra in Sanskrit translates loosely to "the liberation of the mind." In practice, mantra is the repetition of a sound formula or affirmative phrase. It can be said silently or aloud, sung, or even written, which is called japa in Sanskrit. While Sanskrit mantras have a positive vibrational effect on the body chakras (The Sanskrit language is an ancient science of sound in the yoga tradition), the meaning of the words is just as important. Mantras said in one's native tongue, English, for example, also have a positive impact on mental well-being.
There are many ways to practice mantra. Regardless of the approach, the goal is to clear the mind of negative thought patterns and chatter, which in turn enables the conscious and subconscious mind to develop the focus necessary for meditation so that inner wisdom and universal sounds can both be heard.
Mantra has countless physical, mental, and spiritual benefits, some of which are lower blood pressure, a stronger immune system, less anxiety, and a clearer and more alert mind. Mantra also cleanses the spirit of negative karma and balances the masculine and feminine energies of the body.
There are many CDs, books, and websites to explore about mantra. Many new students hesitate to make it part of their practice, so if it is new to you, start simple. The key is to make it a practice, a daily routine, that may be brief or continuous, but that you are committed to maintaining. You may choose to pick a simple phrase to repeat internally each day or aloud for a set amount of time or number of repetitions. (You may wish to use a string of prayer beads to help count your repetitions.) An example of a simple mantra is "I am happy and free." Nothing complex, just affirmative and positive. You could also simply practice chanting the sacred sound of Aum before or after your hatha yoga practice. This is the sound of the universe and greatly benefits one's entire being.
* From "Chakra Yoga Teacher's Manual," David Goulet and Marina Halleran, The Pyramid Yoga Center, 2007.
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