Yoga Poses For Seventh Chakra

According to the ancient Hindu texts, the Vedas, chakras are seven spinning vortexes--or energy centers--that run along your spine, starting from the base of your spine to the top of your head. The seventh chakra, known as the crown chakra, is located on top of your head; it represents thought and is considered the highest stage of enlightenment. As such, meditation and yoga poses that encourage meditation are the means to bring the seventh chakra into balance.

Meditation

Barbara Kaplan Herring on Yoga Journal.com explains that an over-stimulated seventh chakra can lead to a feeling of elitism, whereas an underdeveloped seventh chakra can mean that you have trouble thinking for yourself or that you tend to be more skeptical. Meditation and yoga poses that promote meditation are the most efficient means of bringing this chakra into balance; meditation is simply the process of focusing on one thing, most commonly the breath, while you withdraw from all other senses that surround you. This can be achieved through practicing several different meditative yoga poses.

Easy Pose

The simple cross-legged position can actually be anything but simple to some people. This is a classic meditation pose that despite the lack of complexity in strength or flexibility, does require sitting still for a period of time, which can be unnerving. However, that is exactly the point; staying in one place, being still and emptying your mind in order to focus on your breath can actually bring a sense of calm to the mind, and subsequently, the body.

Savasana

Savasana is meditation and relaxation pose that is normally done at the end of a yoga class; however, it can be used any time that you feel the need for complete relaxation. People who are new to meditation may find that Savasana is an easier pose to execute than the easy pose, as being in a supine position can help you to relax, be still and focus on your breath. Your mind will never be completely empty, so do not become frustrated if you find it wandering; when you do, simply lead it back to the breath.

Reclining Bound Ankle

In reclining bound-ankle pose, you are lying on your back with the soles of your feet pressed together, while your knees are bent and relaxed out to the sides. Many find reclining bound-ankle pose to be relaxing, while also relieving, as this pose helps to open your hips. It is thought in yoga that your suppressed emotions reside in your hips, and opening your hips can help to release your emotions, which can bring peace of mind. Thus, meditating while in this pose can be enjoyable. Once you are comfortable in the pose, close your eyes and focus on your breath as you slowly breathe in and out of your nose.

Legs Up the Wall

A favorite restorative and meditation pose for many people, legs up the wall will not only calm your mind, but it can help to relieve tension, inflammation and cramping in your feet and legs. This can help you to go further into deep relaxation and meditation. The longer you stay in this pose, the more you will feel the mindful and meditative benefits.