Demystifying Yoga: The 3rd Eye Chakra

3rd Eye Chakra Basics

According to yogic philosophy, chakras are wheels of energy located along the full length of the spine — from the root to the top of the head. Each chakra is associated both with physical areas of the body and with specific issues and experiences in our lives.

One of the most commonly known Chakras is the 6th. Also referred to as the 3rd Eye or Ajna Chakra, this Chakra is located in the space between the eyebrows and includes the pituitary gland, eyes, head, and lower part of the brain. The 3rd Eye Chakra is thought to be tied to intuition, illumination, imagination and visualization. If the 3rd Eye Chakra is balanced, you are able to put your ego aside and see situations, people and experiences (among other things) with total clarity. Strengthening the Ajna Chakra can also increase reasoning, wit, and spontaneity. 

Blocked 3rd Eye Chakra

A Blocked 3rd Eye Chakra can present itself in multiple ways: migraines, dizziness, poor vision, uncertainty & anxiety about the future, confusion, and depression. Individuals may also find that they second guess every decision they make. You can help to unblock your 3rd Eye Chakra by eating foods that are high in antioxidants (to promote brain function) like dark chocolate, blueberries and strawberries. Yoga can also help to rebalance this chakra. 

Poses to awaken your 3rd Eye Chakra: Humble Warrior, Locust Pose, Camel Pose, Wheel, Prasarita, Child’s Pose, Dolphin Pose

Overactive 3rd Eye Chakra

An excess within this chakra most often manifests itself as obsessiveness, delusions, and sometimes nightmares or hallucinations. If your 3rd Eye Chakra is too active, you can often lose sight of reality and become overly judgemental. For those experiencing any of this, meditation is a great way to calm an overactive 3rd Eye Chakra. Begin this process by sitting with your eyes closed and simply thinking positive thoughts about different parts of your life. This practice will help to pull you back to reality.