Sacred Symbols in Hinduism
Sacred geometry and symbols play a major role in Sanatan Dharma. Sanatan Dharma encompasses a bouquet of beliefs but it is broadly believed that there is only one God which expresses itself in different forms and ways. This is signified by teachings of Upanishad like ‘Ekam Sad Viprah Bahuta Vadanti’ which means that the God is one and formless and is beyond the boundaries of understanding. Thus, God manifests in many forms and also affiliated to these many forms are sacred and auspicious symbols and geometries. These symbols play a great philosophical role in the Hindu religion and are given much significance. Many of these sacred symbols are associated with various Gods and Goddesses; other times they are auspicious geometries with profound spiritual meanings. The sacred symbols play the role of abstract representation of Divinity. These symbols work as bridge between the formless god and the limited human mind. Devotees find it much convenient if the God can be correlated to symbol, which can be interacted in daily lives.
One amazing thing about these auspicious symbols in Hinduism is that they are not only used in worship and holy rituals. They also have great scientific and spiritual importance. There is a broad scope of symbolism that involves physical gestures like offering prayers with folded hands (Pranam). Such gestures usually induce the right mood and awareness for the individual. There are numerous auspicious symbols in Hinduism which symbolizes the notion of inner purity. These sacred symbols are displayed at temples and homes to bring good fortune, invite positivity and keep away all sought if negativities. Here, we have listed some of the most sacred and auspicious symbols used in Hinduism, their meaning and also the significance they hold.
Om / Aum
Om is the primary, most sacred spiritual symbol in Hinduism. Om is the root mantra and the primal sound from which all creations originated. It consists of the three Sanskrit letters aa, au, and maa which together form the sound Om or Aum. The most significant symbol in Hinduism, it appears in all prayers and is the first part of most Deities' invocations. Om is the Hindu symbol for devotion, can be found at the top of letters, pendants, Hindu and family temples. There are very few rituals of worship without this mystic sound. Om is a part of the Archanas performed at Hindu temples after every mantra uttered. Om is also where the Holy Vedas begin. In Sanatan Dharma, Om is the ‘cosmic sound’, or the ‘mystical syllable’, or the ‘affirmation to Divine’. Om is also one of the popular mantras for meditation. The English terms ‘omniscience’, ‘omnipotent’ and ‘omnipresent’ which are associated with the Supreme God are examples of words that contain the syllable Om. It is therefore also used to denote authority and Divinity.
Swastika
Swastika is considered one of the most auspicious symbols in Hinduism. The word Swastika comes from Sanskrit which means ‘lucky or auspicious thing’. Use of Swastika symbol dates back 2nd Century BC. Swastika appears like an equilateral cross and its four legs bent at 90 degrees. This symbol is sacred not only in Hinduism but also in Buddhism and Jainism. As a symbol of luck and auspiciousness, the Swastika signifies "It is well." This ancient sun's sign's right-angled arms represent the indirect method of intuition rather than intellect by which divinity is understood.
Ghanti (Bell)
Ghanti or Ghanta is a ceremonial bell used in ritual puja that involves all senses, particularly hearing. Its ringing invokes the Gods, excites the inner ear, and reminds us that the universe, like sound, can be seen but not possessed. The bell is often made from brass and has a clapper. When the bell is rung, it emits a high-pitched sound. The ringing of a bell calls the gods while simultaneously stimulating the inner ear. Hindu temples typically have a single metal bell hanging at the entryway, which visitors ring when entering the temple. During the Puja, both priests and worshipers clang bells.
Shivalinga
Shivlinga is regarded as a particularly sacred emblem, representing Lord Shiva himself, according to tradition. Nearly all of the temples devoted to Lord Shiva have the Shivlinga. Hindu legend states that Lord Shiva himself took on the shape of a Linga so that his followers may worship Him. This is due to the fact that, while being formless and imperceptible to the unaided eye, Lord Shiva is present both on earth and in heaven. Shivling is conical at the top and broad in the middle. This is how flame takes shape. The God of Shaivite philosophy is formless. God took the appearance of a flame because of the souls' grace, which allowed them to understand God easily and experience liberation. This flame is worshipped as a stone lingam and in other forms that facilitate devotion. Shaivites regard this as more sacred than form worship. Shivlinga is a physical image of Lord Shiva and is meant to be touched, seen, and worshipped. It is guaranteed to devotees that by worshiping the Linga, they can establish a connection with Lord Shiva. Frequently depicted with the Yoni (which means womb or Prakriti) is the Shivlinga. This stands for the unity of Purush and Prakriti, or male and female, which precedes the creation of the universe.
Kalash
The Sanskrit word ‘Kalash’ means pot or pitcher. The Kalash is made from a metal that usually features a broad base and a small mouth, such as brass, copper, silver, or gold. During Hindu ceremonies, a coconut and a coronet of mango leaves are placed on a pot of water. The coconut is wrapped in red thread or linen, and the coronet of mango leaves is arranged so that the tips of the leaves come into contact with the water in the Kalasha. In all Hindu celebrations and events of marriage and childbirth, Kalasha is revered. The coconut is a symbol of affluence and a cash crop. The pot's water symbolizes nature's capacity to sustain life. The state of Andhra Pradesh has adopted the Kalash as its official state emblem.
Cow or Gau Mata
The cow or Gau mata is highly revered and honored and regarded as a sacred animal in Hinduism. Even though cows are not worshipped by Hindus, they are revered in practically all of India. While practically every animal is considered sacred in Hinduism, cows are held in higher regard than other animals. The cow produces butter, ghee, yogurt, and cheese in addition to milk and cream. It is said that cow milk refines a person. Cow manure is utilized in homes as a cleanser, fuel, and fertilizer. The cow is comparable to Mother Earth, the nourisher, the selfless giver, because of the abovementioned characteristics.
The Sri Symbol
The Sanskrit word ‘Sri’ is commonly used to address people in a respectful manner. In Hinduism, the title Sri is often used to symbolize Maa Laxmi and also to honor deities. Sri can also be written as Shree or Shri. When Sri is used without any other words, it alludes to the highest consciousness. For numerous Gods and Goddesses, like Sri Ganesh, Sri Lakshmi, and Sri Vishnu, Hindus apply the prefix Sri. The term Sri appears at the start of most Hindu mantras or in between mantra lines. Spiritual leaders in Hinduism use Sri followed by 108 or 1008.
Shankha or Conch
The Shankha is a revered Hindu symbol related to Lord Vishnu. According to Hindu scripture, the Shankha bestows fame, longevity, and fortune. The Shankha was used in ancient times to begin and end gatherings such as war, trips, and meetings. Shankha generated a sound known as Shankanad. Shankha is now blown during religious ceremonies in Hindu temples and homes. It is also used during Aarti to offer light to the deities. Shankha is often used to bathe deities, particularly Lord Vishnu.
Trishul
Trishul is Lord Shiva's trident, which is also borne by other Hindu gods, sages, and saints. Trishula's three prongs depict the Trinity (Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh) and The Three Modes of Nature: Creation, Maintenance, and Destruction. It also symbolized the three Kalas (past, present, and future) The Three Gunas (Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas), Three Powers (will, action, and wisdom), and Three Miseries (physical, mental, and spiritual). As the trident is wielded by the Goddess Shakti, her followers hold it in high regard and consider it as an important symbol of their devotion towards her.
Rudraksha
Rudra, which means "Lord Shiva," and Ak?a, which means "Teardrops," combine to form the Sanskrit term for "rudraksha." Rudraksha is a representation of Lord Siva's tears poured in response to human suffering. Hindus wear the Rudraksha seeds strung together as a garland. It's thought that using 108 plus one beads is the proper amount. "The Guru Bead" is the name of the additional bead. Rudraksha is best worn without the use of metal since it is never polished or cut like a gemstone.
Nandi
Lord Shiva rides the Nandi bull, who serves as both the deity Parvati's gatekeeper and his mount. Nandi is a Sanskrit term meaning ‘one who brings joy’. Nandi Bull is portrayed as a seated statue in temples devoted to Lord Shiva. In Hinduism, it's important to first obtain Nandi's blessings before worshiping Lord Shiva. In India, there are numerous temples devoted just to Nandi Bull.
Peacock feather
Lord Kartikeya, also known as Murugan in South India, rides a peacock. Lord Shiva is the father of Lord Kartikeya. The dancing peacock's display represents religion in all its splendor. According to Hindu mythology, Garuda is another mythological bird that carries Lord Vishnu, and it is thought that one of its feathers was used to create the peacock. India's national bird is the peacock. Being an agriculturally dependent nation, India depends heavily on rain, which the peacock predicts by dancing and opening all of its feathers. In Hinduism, Peacock Feathers, also known as Moonkh, are considered fortunate symbols. It is believed that having peacock feathers around the house can bring prosperity and good luck. The eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu, Lord Krishna also wore a peacock feather on his crown. Students also keeps a peacock feathers in their books, believing that the Goddess of Knowledge, Maa Saraswati, will assist them in achieving academic success.
Nataraja
Lord Shiva is being represented as the cosmic dancer in the Nataraja, which means "King of Dance." It is believed that Lord Shiva begins the process of creating a new cosmos by destroying the old one with his heavenly dance, known as the Tandava. There are two different types of tandavas which is the joyful one, also known as the Ananda tandava. The dance form Rudra Tandava is performed in a furious manner. Natraj is the main god worshipped in the popular Thillai Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram.
Lotus Flower
Padma is another auspicious symbol in Hinduism which often also called the Lotus Flower. In Hinduism, Lord Vishnu, Lord Brahma, Goddess Saraswati, and Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped by Padma. The Padma symbolizes beauty and purity regardless of the favorable or unfavorable conditions in which it flourishes. It basically remains as a reminder that goodness and wealth can flourish without being affected by evil in one's surrounding. Many people refer to Lord Vishnu as the "Lotus-Eyed One."
Shatkona
Shatkona which also means "six" is a sacred Hindu symbol made up of interlocked triangles. These two triangles symbolize Lord Shiva (masculine) and Goddess Parvati (feminine). The highest three edges represent Lord Siva, Purusha, and fire. The three lower edges symbolize Shakti, Prakriti, and Water. The upward-pointing triangle represents Purusha, the Supreme Being, while the downward-pointing triangle represents Prak?ti, or Mother Nature.
Kamandal
The Kamandal is a water pot with a handle that is made from metal, clay, or coconut shells. The Hindu Sages used to carry the Kamandal, which stands for a straightforward, independent existence. The water of the kamandal is a representation of riches, life, and fertility. The Kamandal is commonly seen in the hands of ascetic Hindu gods.
Sudarshana Chakra
Lord Vishnu holds a disk-shaped weapon that is known as the Sudarshana Chakra, which has 108 razor-sharp edges. The meaning of the terms Sudarshana and Chakra are respectively "vision which is auspicious" and "the one which is mobile." Legends states that the Sudarshana Chakra is both the most powerful and the only weapon that can move. The ultimate goal of the Sudarshana Chakra is to destroy the opponent. During Homas, or Hawans, Hindus typically worship Sudarshana to fend off evil spirits or vibrations. In India, Sudarshana Chakra is revered as the primary deity in numerous temples.
Dhwaja / Saffron Flag
In Hinduism, the Saffron Flag stands for the Hindu culture, or "Sanatana Dharma." Wealth, Dharma, Advancement, Glory, wisdom, and detachment are all represented by the flag. Hinduism's flag is orange because its fundamental belief is that fire is the ultimate cleanser. The Dhwaja flag has a triangular shape as opposed to the typical rectangular flags. Hindu sages traveled from one ashram to another in the past, and they always brought fire with them. The saffron flag sign may have originated from the hardship of carrying a burning thing. Along with being seen during religious processions and festivals, the Saffron Flag can also be seen waving on the majority of Hindu temples.
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What are Angel Numbers
Numbers follow us throughout our lives, and many people may be bothered by specific numerical sequences that appear repeatedly. Perhaps you look at the clock, and it's always 1.11, or a quick glance at a phone number reveals that it is 555. Most people may dismiss this as a coincidence, but there is a high risk that you are missing messages from the universe and moving your attention away from your angel numbers. Angel numbers are a subset of numerology. Numerology is the notion that numbers have critical value and have a mysterious or symbiotic link with human behavior and life events. Angel numbers are a repeated sequence of numbers. When you start seeing them frequently daily, it means they have a message conveyed to you. They intend to transmit a message to us. This message could come from the universe or guardian angels.
In this article, we will learn angel numbers and why we keep seeing them. We will also share the meaning behind some of the most popular angel numbers. The next time you encounter a series of numbers that catches your eye, remember there are no coincidences in this crazy life, just messages and deep meaning.
Why do you see Angel Numbers?
Angel numbers are a communication medium from spiritual entities like angels or spirit guides. We witness these numbers frequently when there is some important event or we want guidance, in life. The reasons for these events vary, but they often fulfil numerous important functions.
- Angel numbers offer advice and assistance in our lives. They reassure us that we are on the correct track. They also push us to make educated decisions.
- When we start seeing Angel numbers, it is like a reminder that someone is listening to our prayers.
- Angel numbers can represent a spiritual awakening. It improves human consciousness. It educates us to pay greater attention to the universal indications. Angel numbers synchronicities, that surround you.
- They can also be used as protective symbols, signifying that you are being watched over and protected by good powers, especially during difficult times.
Significance of Angel Numbers
Angel Numbers hold a key significance because they are a spiritual message from a higher realm. They provide guidance, reassurance, and wisdom to make life decisions. When we start seeing these numbers on repeat it means our spirit guides want to communicate with us. Each Angel Number has a distinct vibration and meaning. It is typically based on numerology and is specific to the individual's current life circumstances and spiritual journey. For example, seeing 111 may indicate new beginnings and the power of optimistic thinking.
The repeating appearance of these numbers is a sign that you are on your spiritual path. These numbers encourage you to trust the process and be positive. They also act as reminders, to maintain mindfulness and openness to the universe's instruction. Furthermore, Angel Numbers can represent spiritual awakenings. It promotes deeper reflection and a greater understanding of one's relationship to the divine. Angel numbers can perform as protective symbols. It provides comfort and support during difficult times.
Popular Angel Numbers and Their Meaning
There are numerous angel numbers out there but knowing which repeated numbers contain significance and a heavenly message requires comprehending the most prevalent meanings of angel numbers that are spiritually relevant and are most likely to be a kind of divine instruction from your spirit guides.
000
It should come as no surprise that the sequence 000 or 0000 is all about new beginnings, blank pages, fresh begins, and starting from scratch. This is a number, representing complete freedom since it signifies you are not bound by anything as long as you can clear your mind of previous preconceptions. This clear-headed sign is all about exploring, new opportunities and envisioning your ideal existence. The succession of zeros is also a communication from higher beings, angel guides, and the cosmos, indicating that they are holding space and are always ready to help you in any new endeavors you embark on.
111
Sequences beginning using the number 1 convey some powerful messages. Seeing these numerical sequences together can be seen as a sign of manifestation. It might be your angels alerting you that your vibrations are high and that you have a strong connection to the law of attraction right now. It can give a reminder that now is an excellent time to start cultivating positive thoughts, believing in yourself, and bringing in the energy of abundance. These numbers also symbolize a new beginning and a desire to leave the past behind.
222
When you see a series of 2 it means balance, trust, and harmony are necessary components on the path to peace. It might be your angel guides sending you a gentle reminder to live in the present, bring balance to where you are right now, and abandon any comparing habits you may be secretly cultivating. The number two talks about harmony and balance.
333
The number 3 in a sequence can serve as a reminder to cultivate, accept, and fully lean into your particular gifts. It is creative, artistic, and expressive. The sequence of threes is associated with good luck and a sense of ambition. Both qualities are vital in moving you forward. It's also a number that represents rounding out your life, so it could be an excellent time to consider what aspects of your life feel out of balance.
444
When the number 4 appears often, it may indicate that the angels have seen your journey and want to reassure you that you are on the correct track. It may also suggest that a close connection be formed, so keep your heart open to avoid missing these opportunities.
555
While change can be terrifying or uncomfortable, this angel number is a message to help you prepare mentally, emotionally, and spiritually for it. Resisting change is sometimes our initial instinct, but the angels want you to remember that change is often a vital step toward aligning with the life you are destined to live and taking that spiritual leap. It can also be a sign that inspiration is on its way, which can come from the presence of another person or an external force, so if you need a boost of energy, keep your eyes and ears open.
666
All of the 6s can be a warning that you need to confront your shadow side and accept responsibility for your own life, or they can be a gentle reminder that no matter what is going on, you must treat yourself with love, kindness, and compassion. In reality, the sequence of 6s can represent love on a deep level, as it can relate to people closest to us or even those who have crossed over to the other side of our ancestors, offering assistance and advice even when we cannot see it.
777
When you see a series of 7s, then take a deep sigh because the cosmos is telling you that it's time to let go of everything you've been hanging onto. A series of 7s is a lovely reminder. It tells that the time to relax, dream, and control everything around you have come in your life. It's a yin-infused sequence, so it may be an excellent time to indulge in dreaming, creative undertakings, and expressions, as well as to turn in on yourself and meditate to see what messages emerge.
888
The number 8 pattern is looped with flow and rhythm, connecting with the divine realms uniquely. Seeing all of the 8s together is a very encouraging indication from your angels. It could suggest that you are in flux and flow, and instead of fighting the cosmos, you are allowing it to guide and take you exactly where you need to go. It can also be associated with themes of destiny, karma, and supernatural energy; thus it could be a message that now is the moment to strike while the universal iron is hot - act now and reap the benefits tenfold.
999
The 9s remind us that the finish line is near. It also indicates that if we need an extra boost of energy. It will get us through, we can find it in this sequence. It can also serve as a reminder that if we are nearing the conclusion of a chapter, now is a good time to contemplate our next steps and plan out the measures we want to take to reach our next goal. It might be a terrific moment to reflect and ponder how to improve. Perhaps we need to reassess our inner balance, interactions with the material world, and what we do to bring greater justice into the world for the larger good.
1212
If you see the angel number 1212 appear, take note because it may indicate that a shift is on its way that will rock your world for the better. It is a sign from your guardian angels that they see you, hear your desires, and are beside you on the journey to making those hopes and desires a reality. The number 1212 combines the deity number of 1 with the harmonic number of 2. These numerals represent themes. It is related to uniqueness, individuality, leadership, harmony, balance, and deep love. 1212 is associated with deep relaxation, calm, and the promise of abundance.
What to do when I see Angel numbers appearing repeatedly?
Each sequence of angel numbers has a unique significance and message. Therefore, yours may be determined by the message, it conveys. The best place to start is to learn what your angel number implies. After that, you can relax and reflect on what the numbers signify to you in your current life. Remember that our angels and guardians want us to live our best lives, therefore when they send us these messages, it is usually to guide us down the correct path or encourage us in some part of our lives.
Understand the meaning of the Angel number, trust your instincts, and be yourself to gain clarity in life. There are general meanings to angel numbers that can help you understand why they keep appearing, but as with all mystical elements in this world, everything is subjective. You may need to rely on your intuition and tap into your wisdom and understanding to figure out, why these numbers are appearing.
How to understand Angel Numbers / How do Angel Numbers Work?
Angel numbers emerge in the most unexpected locations. It contributes to their mystery. Angel numbers, you can see on clocks, timestamps, and alarms. They occur on addresses, phone numbers, and license plates. Angel numbers may appear on receipts, price tags, and trip plans. You could call this a frequency illusion. Angel numbers emerge in the most commonplace settings. It is because the spiritual realm delivers a gentle reminder that you are going through something bigger than any day-to-day situation could ever explain. It is a reminder that you are on a quest. There's a purpose in life. And, especially when the road ahead in our life appears hazy and unfamiliar. We must agree that the presence of an angel number will be the reason to make us feel a warm embrace of Universe.
If you keep your eyes, heart, and mind open, you will eventually come across your angel numbers. These numbers are significant because they convey messages the universe wants you to hear. Angel numbers guide you towards the light of your bigger life, from giving comfort and tranquility to chaos and change, lending love and support when you feel out on a limb and urging you to keep walking the walk when you are on the correct track.
One of the appealing things about angel numbers is their flexibility and change with your energy and life path. Connecting with your intuition, believing that when you see these numbers, they represent something, and acting by the messages provided will all help you make the most of these universal messages.
We should consider angel numbers as our spiritual guide from the Universe. Angel Numbers are there in our lives for assuring us, that we are on the right track in life.
Human Energy System as per Vedic Scriptures
The Vedic Scriptures define the human body beyond its physical appearance. According to these teachings, the human body is a sophisticated network of energy that regulates our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. This holistic viewpoint incorporates the concept of energy fields, chakras, and channels that aid in the flow of life force within us. According to Vedic philosophy, the cosmos is made up of both visible and dark energies.
Exploring the Energy system present in the human body
Medical research has not wholly investigated the human body's energy flow mechanism. Vedic science has described it fully. According to Vedic science, the human body consists of three spiritual organs. These organs generate, store, and distribute energy derived from food. Food initially enters the stomach, where it reacts with enzymes and fluids. It subsequently passes through the small and large intestines. During this process, Rudra Vayus, also known as vital air, absorbs meal components and transfers them to the bloodstream. These vessels convey the components to the heart, which contains the soul. The soul, like a fire, consumes these elements to produce energy.
The energy produced is stored as Kundalini Shakti at the Muladhara Chakra. The Kundalini sends energy to the mind through the Sushumna Nadi, positioned at the back of the head as you sleep. Throughout the day, the mind channels this energy to the five Karma Indriyas (organs of action). It also channels the energy to five Gyan Indriyas (organs of observation). This energy flow is facilitated by Nadis. These are space-based energy conduits. However, because of the modern detachment from Sanskrit pronunciation, these Nadis begin to narrow around the age of, 40-45, interfering with energy delivery to internal organs and producing ailments. Chanting Vedic Rudra Mantras is recommended for maintaining proper energy flow and well-being.
What is Aura?
We are each born with our own Aura, which is represented in our personality characteristics, type, attitude, and skills. It is simply an energy effect, an electromagnetic field within and around us. It is present in all living things, including trees and animals. This explains how people perceive us. Our Aura influences our behavior, preferences, and dislikes. It is an inner power that changes our perspective and, how we perceive things and life. The Aura contains a variety of energies. Almost everything we experience, both good and negative, is caused by the effects of the auras around us. Everyone has their own Aura, determined by the good and bad karmas they have committed in their previous and current lifetimes and other circumstances. Our Aura is the sum of positive and negative energies acquired by our good and bad karmas, as well as other means.
The Aura interacts with the energy, that surrounds us. It absorbs positive effects while protecting us from bad ones. Meditation, yoga, and pranayama are all practices that help to cleanse and build the Aura. This leads to a harmonious flow of energy.
What are Chakras?
Chakras are the body's energy centers. They are placed in the astral body, along the spine, beginning at the base and progressing to the crown. The astral body is energetic and coexists with our physical body. Every physical body part has an astral counterpart. The astral body can't be seen or touched. The chakras produce a distinct color and energy. Each is associated with a gland in the physical body. Each Chakra of our body connects to specific aspects of the body. It connects with spiritual, psychological, emotional, and also physical aspects of the human body. If chakras are blocks or malfunctions, they are supposed to produce physical, psychological, and emotional ailments. The chakras function as distribution centers. They distribute the five pranas to their respective local areas. When we have awareness about balancing these Chakra's energy, it promotes well-being and health. There are seven primary chakras in our body with distinct vibrations, colors, symbols, and sounds:
Muladhara Chakra/Root Chakra: The Root Chakra is situated at the base of the spine, between the anus and genitals. It is defined by feelings such as survival, stability, ambition, and self-sufficiency.
Swadhishthana Chakra/Sacral Chakra: The Swadhishthana Chakra, also known as the Sacral Chakra, is found in the lower belly, approximately four fingers below the navel. Its characteristics include a basic need for sexuality, as well as creativity and self-esteem.
Manipura Chakra/Navel Chakra: The Manipura Chakra is positioned in the solar plexus. It falls between the navel and the base of the ribcage. Manipura Chakra symbolizes the ego, rage, and animosity emotions.
Anahata Chakra/Heart Chakra: The Anahata Chakra is located in the heart. Anahata Chakra is a center of balance of the human body. This Chakra takes care of the feelings of affection. It also represents compassion and trust.
Vishuddha Chakra/Throat Chakra: The Visuddha Chakra is located near to the base of the throat. It is positioned near the thyroid gland. The Chakra is responsible for the motivational power within us. The expression of positivity, faith, and effective communication are all taken care of by the Vishuddha Chakra.
Ajna Chakra/Third Eye Chakra: The Ajna Chakra (pronounced 'Agya Chakra') is found between the brows. It is also termed as the Third Eye Chakra. It is frequently used as a focal point in asana practice. It helps to improve attention and awareness. This Chakra helps to remove the past-life karma. Ajna Chakra also provides emancipation and intuitive understanding. Its characteristics take care of intelligence, insight, intuition, and self-knowledge.
Sahasrara Chakra/Crown Chakra: The Sahasrara is termed as the Crown Chakra. It is situated at the crown of the head. The seventh Chakra represents spirituality, enlightenment, and dynamic thought and energy. It promotes the internal flow of enlightenment and provides the gift of universal consciousness.
What are Nadis?
In Sanskrit, nadi denotes "stream, tube, or pipe." Practitioners of traditional yoga and Ayurvedic traditions believe that the physical body contains thousands of nadis or subtle energy pathways. They are not visible to the human eye yet exist alongside nerves, blood vessels, and other anatomical structures. The primary role of Nadis is to transport Prana, or life-force energy, in our body. Nadis are analogous to our bodies' nerve systems, but their importance extends beyond the physical realms to the astral and spiritual planes of existence. Breath is very crucial in balancing and activating these pathways.
According to ancient Sanskrit writings, the human body contains 72,000 nadis, each of which, serves as a conduit for the passage of pranic energy. The three main Nadis are:
Ida Nadi: Ida Nadi is also known as the left channel. It originates in the Muladhara Chakra and goes to the left. It joins the other chakras, going in and out until it enters our left nostril. The Nadi represents our mental energy. Ida describes the feminine side of dualism.
Pingala Nadi: The origin of this Nadi is the same as Ida, but it flows to the right. It then weaves in and out of the remaining chakras before ending in our right nostril. Prana originates in Pingala Nadi. Pingala represents the male side of dualism.
Shushumna Nadi: Shusumna Nadi, also known as the middle channel, goes vertically up the spine from the root chakra to the crown chakra. This is the Nadi of spiritual consciousness, the most important component of human physiology. However, this Badi remains inactive among many of us because we do not pursue our spiritual existence.
What is Kundalini?
Kundalini can be best described as a tremendous, primal force, that represents our unrealized potential. It refers to the vast realm of the unknown that exists beyond the confines of our brains. Kundalini is defined as, "the dormant energy coiled at the base of the spine." Kundalini is the sum of two words, "kundal" means "coiled," and "ini" can be translated as "power." Kundalini Shakti is defined as the life force of all awareness we hold. This tremendous force is often represented as a serpent wrapped three and a half times. This can be awakened through yoga's physical and spiritual practices such as mantra, mudra, asana, and pranayama. When the kundalini shakti awakens, it rises through the chakras (energy vortices) in the energetic body, resulting in spiritual awakening manifested as freedom of choice, awareness, and a better ability to live a holistic life.
What is Prana?
Prana is fundamentally the universal life force that penetrates all that exists. It is a vital energy that surrounds and drives the universe. It provides the energy, for essential and daily tasks of the body, like breathing, talking, moving, thinking, digesting, breathing, and so on. Prana's function in our existence extends far beyond the act of breathing. This excellent vital force maintains our cells healthy, our organs working, and our thoughts clear. Imagine Prana as an unseen force that flows through thousands of energy channels, or nadis, within us, preserving our health and energizing our entire existence. Prana is categorized into five basic categories, each of which governs a particular function:
Prana: Prana vayu means "forward-moving air." It moves inside the body and controls all forms of reception, such as consuming food and beverages and breathing, as well as physical sensations and mental experiences.
Apana: Apana vayu, "the air that moves away." It goes downward and outward, controlling all modes of removal and proliferation. It regulates the evacuation of stool and urine, the discharge of semen, menstrual fluid, and the fetus, and the expulsion of carbon dioxide through the breath. More fundamentally, it governs the eradication of adverse sensory, emotional, and mental events. It forms the basis of our immune system.
Samana: Samana vayu, or "balancing air," flows from the periphery to the center via a churning and discriminating movement. It promotes digestion at various levels, operating in the gastrointestinal system to digest food, in the lungs to digest air or absorb oxygen, and in the brain to digest sensory, emotional, and mental experiences.
Udana: Udana vayu, or "the upward-moving air," raises and creates qualitative or transformative movements of life force. It governs body growth, standing ability, speech, effort, enthusiasm, and will. It serves as our primary source of good energy.
Vyana: Vyana vayu, or "outward-moving air," flows from the center to the periphery and governs circulation at all levels. It transports food, water, and oxygen throughout the body while circulating our emotions and thoughts in the brain, generating momentum and vigor.
Flow on Prana in the human body:
The subtle life force energy known as Prana by yogis is at the heart of all life and the universe. Prana, the subtle energy that circulates through our bodies, cannot be seen, touched, or tasted, but most yogis have experienced it. This mystical force flows through our bodies, animating every action, from gross physical movements to minute biochemical activities.
Without Prana, the vital power, the body is nothing but a lump of clay. Prana forms the body into limbs and organs by forming delicate nerve channels known as Nadis, which energize and operate the body. Prana Vayu creates openings in the head and brain, such as the eyes, ears, nostrils, and mouth. Udana Vayu helps to shape the mouth and voice organs. Apana Vayu opens up the lower body's urinary and excretory systems. Samana Vayu forms the digestive system around the navel, which includes the intestines, liver, and pancreas.
Vyana Vayu develops pathways in the arms and legs, such as veins, arteries, muscles, joints, and bones. Prana flows throughout the body, primarily through breathing. The navel is the main Pranic center for digestion. The small intestine processes Prana from food, which is stored in the muscles. The heart is the energy center for the Pranamaya Kosha, which transports subtle Prana from breathing via the blood.
The quality and quantity of Prana in our body have a significant impact on our ability. It helps to focus and concentrate. To sense and experience prana, our attention must be attracted to the subtle energies of the body or Pranamaya kosha. The five koshas are portrayed as cases or layers that obscure the light of our True Self. Pratyahara is the most effective yoga technique for shifting our concentration from the physical shell of Annamaya kosha to the Pranamaya kosha.
We cannot miss mentioning that our Vedic principles always respect the value of staying close to nature. It promotes and supports a nature-friendly lifestyle.
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