Chakras are energy points that exist along the body's vertical axis, according to Hindu and Buddhist philosophical traditions. They are subtle doorways, or points of light, that connect the body's energy channels. When they are rigid, dim or closed off, they are believed to prevent the free flow of energy, causing disease. When they are open and bright, the body is considered to be in a state of wellness. Each chakra is associated with a color, a sound and a specific part of the body. The chakra nearest the chin is more often referred to as the throat chakra, or Vishuddha, in Sanskrit.
Purity
Vishuddha, meaning purity, is symbolized by a silver crescent within a circle, surrounded by 16 pale-blue or turquoise petals. The silvers, blues and crescent shape represent "pure cosmic sound," according to the teachings of Tantra and Kundalini. Purity exists when speech, expressed from this energy point, is aligned with truth. When purity is lacking, issues of addiction, hateful speech and thyroid problems can arise, according to the book "Becoming Vajrasattva: The Tantric Path of Purification."
Communication & Expression
The throat chakra is associated with clear communication and personal expression. Situated next to the vocal chords, the ability to express oneself easily, truthfully and in a confident voice is associated with the Vishuddha chakra's health and radiance. Expression, ranging from intimate conversation to emotional confession to song, keeps the throat chakra bright and unobstructed. When the throat chakra is weak, the sufferer will find it difficult to speak well or can experience a sore throat, laryngitis or hoarseness. This chakra is also associated subtly with hearing. Strong communication requires not only that a person listen to others but also to one's inner voice.
Lucid Dreaming
According to Tantric philosophy, a vibrant throat chakra facilitates lucid dreaming, or self-guided dreaming, which, psychoanalysts claim, is related to goal attainment. Sleep researchers find that lucid dreaming is a state between sleeping and consciousness wherein the dreamer knows she is dreaming. Therapists and healers recommend lucid dreaming for those who desire an outcome they haven't been able to achieve in waking life. Visualizing the positive outcome makes it easier to attain.
Glands and Hormones
The thyroid, a butterfly-shaped gland near the throat, produces the hormones thyroxine and triiodothyronine, which influence metabolism, mood and energy levels. When the throat chakra is inhibited, so too is thyroid function. An underactive thyroid leads to weight gain, depression and fatigue. An overactive thyroid causes anxiety, restlessness and insomnia. In eastern philosophy, thyroid problems are said to result from difficulty in communication and expression. Chanting and mantras can be prescribed.
References
- Tantra-Kundalini; Vishuddha Chakra; 2010
- Tori Hartmann; Fluid Elegance -- Purity; 2011
- All Good Things; The Throat Chakra -- The Great Purity Center; 2007
- "Becoming Vajrasattva: The Tantric Path of Purification; Thubten Yeshe, Nicholas Ribush; 2004
- MayoClinic.com; Can Thyroid Disease Affect My Mood?; Todd B. Nippoldt; December 2010
- "National Center for Biotechnology Information"; Lucid Dreaming -- A State of Consciousness ...; June 2009
