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Anahata chakra: Situated in the spine, behind the sternum, level with the heart, is anahata chakra. The word anahata literally means 'unstruck'. All sound in the manifested universe is produced by the striking together of two objects which sets up vibrations or sound waves. That sound, however, which issues from beyond this material world, the primordial sound, is the source of all sound and is known as anahadnada, psychic sound. The heart centre is where this sound manifests. It may be perceived by the yogi as an internal, unborn and undying vibration, the pulse of the universe.
This chakra is symbolised by a blue lotus with twelve petals. In the centre of the lotus is a hexagon formed by two interlacing triangles. This is the yantra oivayu tattwa, the air element. The beeja mantra is yam and the vehicle is a swift black antelope, the symbol of alertness and compassion. Anahata chakra is the centre of unconditional love. At this level the feelings of universal brotherhood and tolerance begin to develop and all beings are accepted and loved for what they are.
On the physical level, anahata is associated with the heart and lungs, and the circulatory and respiratory systems. Sufferers of diseases such as anaemia, hypertension, palpitations, tuberculosis, asthma and bronchitis may concentrate on anahata while performing asanas and other yogic techniques.
For meditation on anahata chakra, visualise a blue lotus or a blue hexagon, formed by two interlacing triangles, with a tiny, bright flame burning at the centre. Imagine it to be steady and unflickering like a flame in a windless place. This is the symbol of the jivatma, the individual soul, the indwelling spirit of all beings which is undisturbed by the winds of the world.
Vishuddhi chakra: Situated at the back of the neck, behind the throat pit, is vishuddhi chakra, the centre of purification. The word shuddhi means 'purification' and the prefix vi enhances this quality. It is symbolised by a violet lotus with sixteen petals. In the centre of the lotus is a white circle, the yantra ofakasha tattwa, the ether element, and the beeja mantra is ham. The animal related to vishuddhi chakra is a white elephant. Right understanding and discrimination develop at
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| SR No. | 009366 |
| Book Title | Asan Pranayam Mudra Bandh |
| Original Sutra Author | N/A |
| Author | Satyanand Saraswati Swami |
| Publisher | Yoga Publication Trust |
| Publication Year | 2002 |
| Total Pages | 560 |
| Language | Hindi |
| Classification | Book_Devnagari |
| File Size | 5 MB |