In Sanskrit, Anahata means “unhurt”, “unstruck” or “unbeaten”.
Anahata, the chakra of belonging, or also known as the heart chakra, is located at the 9th bone of the thoracic (approximately center of chest), represented by the color green. Its associated element is air, and sense is touch, with Yam as its bija.
It is associated with unconditional love or attachment. If this chakra is under-spinning, one may feel shy or even unfeeling, or may find it difficult to forgive. However, if this chakra over-spins, one may become overly attached to things or people, or turn out to be clingy or easily jealous. Thus, it is important to keep this chakra in balance so that one can experience connectedness, compassion, love and peace, not only for others but also for the self and with nature.
This chakra can be activated by practicing chest opening asanas such as Matsyasana (fish pose), Ustrasana (camel pose), Bhujangasana (cobra pose), Chakrasana (wheel pose), Urdhva Mukha Swanasana (upward facing dog), Dhanurasana (bow pose), Salamba Bhujangasana (sphinx pose) and Bitilasana (cow pose). With chest-opening poses, positive energies will then be able to flow in easily. One may also practice pranayama such as Anuloma Viloma (alternate nostril breathing) to remove blockages and activate the prana flow.
Learning to love and affirm yourself is also one important step to activating and keeping this chakra in balance.
