CHAKRA FOUR : ANAHATA

 Name: Anahata (meaning unhurt/unstuck heart)

Element: Air

Color: Green

Body: heart, chest , lungs

 Balanced: Radiant, joyful, generous, compasstionate

As we enter the fourth chakra, the realm of the heart, we move toward qualities of the heart:

·      Open-heartedness

·      Friendliness

·      Goodwill

·      Benevolence

·      Sweetness

·      Non-violence

·      A Strong wish for the welfare and happiness of others

While these qualities may seem “soft,” it takes a real strength and sense of courage to practice these and embody these in a world that currently feels otherwise. For most, it’s easier to shut down and close down, and it’s actually harder to stay open, especially in the face of adversity.

We can think of these heart qualities physically as a soft front. Because boundaries are crucial in protecting this soft front, we also embody a strong back. Underlying all the heart qualities is the practice of equanimity. We can define equanimity then as having a soft front + strong back.

It’s a misconception that to live a “yogic” life means we don’t take a stand, for others and for ourselves. Setting boundaries with love is one of the most compassionate practices we can undertake.

Ways to balance the heart chakra:

·      Practice gratitudes

·      State your needs and boundaries using NVC (non-violent communication)

·      Rest

·      Connect with your support system

·      Offer silent well wishes to strangers on the street

·      Offer silent well wishes to those with whom you disagree

·      Place your hand over your heart and tell yourself you did a good job with ________ today.

·      Forgive. It doesn’t mean you condone. But create space in your heart for forgiveness. It’s for you, not the person who hurt you.

Journal Prompts:

·      In what area of my life, or in what relationship, can I practice more softness?

·      Where do I need to create a stronger boundary to protect my body/heart/mind?