Cape Well Being

The Mozart Effect- Don Campbell

What is the magical medium, that moves, enchants, energizes and heals us? In. an instant, music can uplift our soul. It awakens within us the spirit of prayer, compassion, and love. It clears our minds and has been known to make us smarter. Music is a holy place. It is the sounds of earth and sky of tides and storms.
The Healing Breeze of Sound:
“There are two ways to live your life. One is a though nothing is a miracle. The other is a though everything is a miracle” Albert Einstein.
“A solemn air- melody, and the best comforter to an unsettled fancy, cure thy brains- Shakespeare – the Tempest.
In China the I Ching or book of change, reflects a harmonic understanding.
“The great instrument is uncomplicated. The great tone has an inaudible sound” Lao Tzu, Tao Te Ching.
The word health comes from an old English hal, a root word signifying whole, healing, hale and inhaling. Heal means to make a sound to become healthy again, if you are seeking healthy alternatives you do not have to look far. Your own inner sound system, your ears, voice, and choice of music or self-generated sounds is the most powerful healthy medium available.
Chapter 1 Sound Beginnings
“The vocal nourishment that the mother provides to her child is just as important to the child’s development as her milk.” Alfred Tomatis.
Mozart’s music ‘may warm up’ the brain. Researchers likened the Mozart Effect to a ‘Rosetta stone for the code or internal language of higher brain function.
“Our child was born to a Mozart string quartet and placed on by chest for me to hold. This was the most wonderful moment of my life” A mother quote.
The Science of Lullabies:
In 1962 Dr Lee Salk demonstrated that the fetus is aware of the mother’s heartbeat. Today embryologists agree that the ear is the first organ to develop in embryo. An experiment with fifty-nine newborns found that 94% of crying babies immediately fell asleep without a bottle or pacifier when exposed to the music.
Why Mozart?
The music of Mozart invariably calmed listeners, improved spatial perception, and allowed them to express themselves- communicating with both heart and mind. Clearly the rhythms, melodies, and high frequencies of Mozart’s music stimulate and the charge the creative and motivational regions of the brain. Mozart was born already saturated in and shaped by music. His talent manifested itself at such a tender age and he never lost his aura of the Eternal Child. He could write the most transparent, sweet, and loving melodies in the midst of the most gruesome personal circumstances.
Chapter 2 Sound Listening –The Anatomy of sound, hearing and listening. P31
Sound is energy that can be organized into shapes, patterns, figures and mathematical proportions as well as into music, speech and utterance of agony and bliss. Sound travels in waves through the air and is measured in frequencies and in intensities. Frequency refers to pitch, the high and low quality of sounds, and is measured in hertz, the number of cycles per second at which the wave vibrates. Thresholds of hearing vary from culture to culture and environments to environment.
Rustle of leaves is 10 decibels
Whisper 30 decibels
Conversation is 60 decibels
Rush hour traffic 70 decibels
Jackhammer- motor bike 110 decibels
Rock music 115 decibels
Rocket Launch 180 decibels
Pain begins at 125 decibels
Sound has many mysterious properties. It can for example create physical forms and shapes that influence day to day health consciousness and behavior. The forms and shapes that can be created by sound are infinite and can be varied simply by changing the pitch, the harmonics of the tone and the material that is vibrating. Imagine what effect sounds can have on delicate cells, tissues and organs. Vibrating sounds form patterns, and creates energy fields of resonance and movement in the surrounding space. Depending on their wave forms and other characteristics sounds can have a charging and releasing effect. Sound can also bring about negative changes.
“One day man will have to combat noise as he once combated cholera and plague”
An estimated 60 million Americans have hearing loss, and a third of those are caused by exposure to loud sounds. Noise induced hearing loss is the most common kid of hearing disability in the United States.
Our hearing can also be affected by what we eat and where we live. Studies have confirmed the important relationship between diet and hearing. For example, people on a low fat, low cholesterol diet have better circulation to the ears- consequently better hearing. Climate and environment can also affect our hearing. Forest creates polyphonic music while inhabitants of the desert commonly play one instrument, the drum. You do not have to hear to listen. Several of the history’s most superb listeners and musicians have been deaf. Although they could hear with their ears, they could perceive rhythmic codes and patterns through the vibrations they felt through their hands, bones and other parts of their bodies. Hearing loss can affect the voice as well as the ear.
How we perceive and process the sounds of nature, music and the human voice is a least important as the inherent quality of the sounds themselves. It is strange that in a culture so preoccupied with intelligence, our aptitudes are measured largely in terms of our reading, writing and computer literacy. But if we are deficient in listening, we may be unable to progress to more sophisticated learning skills. Listening properly to the full spectrum of sounds in the world around us allows us to be fully present. The difference between listening and hearing cannot be over emphasized. Listening is active, while hearing is passive. Often, we hear, but we do not listen. Through the same selective process by which it listens the ear can also exclude sounds. This ability to exclude sounds can be a positive thing. It is possible to correct a listening or learning problem by stimulating the muscles of the middle ear, where the distinction between listening and hearing begins

Life has a funny way of teaching us through contrast. We appreciate the joy because we’ve sat with the sorrow; we value the peace because we’ve survived the restlessness. 🌊

Real growth rarely happens when we’re comfortable. It’s the challenges—the moments that push us to our limits—that actually open our hearts and sharpen our understanding.

If you’re going through a heavy season, try to remember: difficult moments aren’t always punishments. More often, they are quiet teachers shaping your strength, patience, and wisdom. Nothing you experience is ever truly wasted if it helps you see the world more clearly and live your life more deeply.

Hang in there. After every long night, the light always finds its way back. ✨

Lojong
In Tibetan Buddhism, the term Lojong (often transliterated as Lo Jong) refers to a system of mental development and training centered on compassion and awakening. This practice is universally structured around a specific, famous text that contains 59 slogans, which are categorized into exactly Seven Points of Mind Training.You can explore the complete text and practical guides on Lotsawa House.The Seven Points of Mind Training provide a step-by-step path to shifting your perspective away from selfishness and toward a compassionate, altruistic mind:1. The PreliminariesThese foundational practices help prepare the mind by turning your focus toward spiritual growth. This involves four reflections: the value of a precious human life, the reality of impermanence, the certainty of karma (cause and effect), and the unsatisfactory nature of cyclic existence (samsara).2. Training in the Two Awakening MindsThis is the core of the practice and involves cultivating Bodhicitta (the awakened heart).Absolute Bodhicitta: Meditating on the empty, dream-like nature of reality to reduce grasping and ego.Relative Bodhicitta: The practice of exchanging self for others. Using the breath, you imagine taking in the suffering of others and sending out your own happiness and virtue (a practice known as Tonglen).3. Turning Adversity into the Path of AwakeningThis radical step teaches you how to use difficulties, illnesses, and harmful situations as fuel for spiritual growth. Instead of blaming the external world, you learn to take responsibility for your own reactions. You also learn to recognize the kindness in everyone, even your enemies.4. Applying the Practice for a Whole LifetimeThis point ensures that the teachings are not just an intellectual exercise, but a lifelong framework. It revolves around the "Five Strengths": determination, familiarization, the accumulation of positive actions, the repudiation of ego, and making strong aspirations to always act with compassion.5. The Measure of Having Trained the MindThis point gives you concrete ways to evaluate your spiritual progress. True progress isn't measured by external applause or feeling "holy," but by the natural decrease of your self-centeredness, the ability to maintain a joyful attitude regardless of circumstances, and remaining stable even when distracted.6. The Commitments of Mind TrainingThese act as ethical guardrails or guidelines to keep your practice honest. They teach you how to change your internal attitude while acting normally in the world, how to avoid pretense and pride, and how to work on your strongest destructive emotions first.7. The Precepts of Mind TrainingThis final section provides practical, everyday advice on how to embed kindness and wisdom into every moment of your life. It emphasizes treating everything you do with a single, positive intention, applying the teachings consistently without bias, and not relying on perfect external conditions to be a compassionate

Bodhicitta

Bodhicitta translates from Sanskrit as the "awakening mind" or "mind of love." It is the defining, compassionate motivation in Mahayana Buddhism to achieve enlightenment (Buddhahood) not just for oneself, but to free all sentient beings from suffering.The path of Bodhicitta is divided into two distinct levels and practices:1. Relative BodhicittaThis is the practical, emotional heart of a practitioner and is divided into two stages:Aspirational: The heartfelt wish and intention to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all beings.Engaged: Taking active steps to realize this wish by practicing the Six Perfections (generosity, morality, patience, energy, meditation, and wisdom).2. Ultimate BodhicittaThis is the direct, experiential realization of ultimate reality, focusing on the wisdom that understands emptiness. It is the insight that recognizes the true nature of all phenomena—seeing that all things lack independent, inherent existence and are deeply interconnected. Reddit·r/Buddhism +1How it is PracticedPractitioners cultivate this mind through dedicated contemplation and meditation. Common Tibetan Buddhist practices include:The Seven-Point Cause-and-Effect Method: Meditating on recognizing all beings as former mothers, reflecting on their kindness, and developing the wish to repay them.Tonglen (Sending and Taking): A meditation technique of breathing in the suffering of others and breathing out one’s own happiness and compassion to help heal them.

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Summary of book - Chakra's
Summary of book Part 3 Chakra's

Mudras: Meaning ‘seal’ is a body and finger posture. Hatha yoga terms some of its facial exercises as mudras. Most physical ailments are due to imbalances of the five body elements. In mudra yoga we try to achieve an equilibrium of the basic elements of earth, fire, air and ether to realign the energies.
Gyan mudra: Purifies the mind, improving intelligence and wisdom. Helps lift mod and relieve insomnia and depression.
Apan mudra: Cleanses and purifies the body, facilitating discharge of waste material, releasing negative energy.
Prithvi Mudra: Increases the earth element, activating the root chakra. Cures weakness of the body and mind, increasing life force. Helps grounding boosts self-confidence and peace of mind.
Varun mudra: Helps improve circulation and skin quality and prevents dehydration and urinary problems.
Surya mudra: Generates body heat and aids digestion and weight control. Helps relieve health problems- diabetes and regulates cholesterol and liver imbalances.
Prana Mudra: Energises the heart, improves functioning of the lungs and eyesight.
Abbaya mudra: Useful for anxiety prone an fearful people- helps balance solar plexus and heart chakras. Benefits the mind becoming fearless, giving a feeling of coverage and strength.
Shunya mudra: Strengthens the heart and gum muscles and relieves toothache and earache. Regulates thyroid gland functions and helps with vertigo.

Mudras can be practised while seated, standing and walking. Allow the body to be symmetrical and centred. 10-15 minutes- for a therapeutic effect a mudra should be practiced for up to 45 minutes.

Chanting: Chanting or japa destroys sins and liberates a person from the cycles of birth and death. Our subconscious mind carries millions of impressions that arise out of our prakruti- nature. The mind, intellect and subconscious mind- chitta- are the constituents of prakruti. One of the most powerful mantras is the gayatri mantra:
Om bhur bhuwa, tat savitur varenyam, Bhargo devasya dhimahi, dhiyo yona prachodayat.
Muladhara- base root- Om shri ganeshaya namah or om shri gan ganpathaye namh.

Sound: Nada or sound and music is the manifestation of sound in harmony. The word ‘universe’ itself connotes the single rhythm in which the world is nurtured as a verse.
The idea that sound affects our health is not a new one. Sound is resonance, the frequency at which an object naturally vibrates; it is the representation of energy vibrations and has the ability to alter the state of consciousness. Music is a kind of sadhana- spiritual practice- and was practised by gandharvas – a group pf celestial musician. Practitioners of sound healing- also called sounders, using singing bowls and tuning forks. The sound creates resonance, the frequency which an object naturally vibrates. The sound vibrations impact the nervous system by promoting relaxation, which inhibits the stress pain or pain response.
• Deep C and C major for muladhara
• D & D major swadhisthana
• E & E major manipura
• F & F major anahara
• G & G major vishuddhi
• A & A major ajna
• H & H major sahasrara

Aromatherapy: Various researches have shown that essential oils have the highest frequency of any natural substance known to man, creating an environment in which disease, viruses and funguses cannot live. Chemistry and frequencies of essential oils have the ability to help maintain the optimal frequency wherein the disease cannot exist. Essential oils work on us a different level, physical, physiological and psychological and works on the vibrational level. Chakra healing is looking for the essential oils that resonate with frequency of the elements associated with the chakras.
Earth: Plant roots are associated with the earth element. They resonate with the vibration of the muladhara-base root- chakra and have the ability to energise and balance the chakra. – Angelica root-valerian root, costus root, patchouli and vetiver.
Water: - swadhisthana- sacral- sandalwood, cedar wood, ginger, juniper, clary sage and jasmine.
Fire: - manipura- solar plexus- fire element. - flowers and spices- Black pepper and clove- rosemary, marjoram, chamomile, lavender, thyme, fennel seed, cardamon, garlic and black seed.
Air: Anahata-heart-it is represented in the leaves of a plant. Holy basil-tulsi- promotes detachment and respiratory. Peppermint, eucalyptus, tea tree, lemongrass. Rosemary, frankincense and lavender.
Ether: Vishuddhi-throat- associated with the fruits and seeds- Lemon, orange, bergamot, bayberry, sandalwood, lotus and tea tree. The ajna control panch mahabhoot- all the five elements. Holy basil, rosemary, eucalyptus, peppermint and frankincense. Sandalwood, blue lotus, clary sage, lavender and kewra.

For self application, chakra anointments should be used on the front of the body.
Chakra anointment: Always use the right-hand middle finger for application of the oils on the front of the body and apply in a clockwise- right to left motion.
Chakra work should begin with the ajna-third eye.
Next using the middle finger apply a drop of muladhara oil blend to the coccyx area.
Next apply the swadhisthana-sacral- above the p***c area.
Next for the manipura-solar plexus.
Next for the anahata- heart- chakra- located at the sternum.
For the vishuddhi- throat- tap the throat area gently also to activate the thyroid gland
The sahasrara-crown-located at the fontanelle or top of the head. Close your eyes and take your awareness to the chakra point.

You are now ready for the meditation.

Crystals: Chakras, the energy centres of our bodies, reflect our physical mental, emotional and spiritual energy. Quartz and its varieties, such as amethyst, rose quartz and smoky quartz.
Muladhara: is associated with the earth element and has the densest vibrations which show up as red in colour. Its ruling planet is Mars and the most useful crystals are red coral, red jasper, haematite, black onyx, black tourmaline and moss agates.
Swadhisthana: Associated with our emotional body: it denotes the desire centre of our being. The chakra is related to procreation, material achievements and power-seeking attitudes and behaviour. It controls the unconscious in human beings. The crystals are carnelian, hessonite, garnet, orange jasper and orange or honey calcite. Moonstone, pearl and mother of pearl also help with emotional balance.
Manipura: Associated with our mental body. Corresponds to the solar plexus, which is the seat of anxieties, assimilation and temperature regulation at the physical level. Located under the V of the ribcage a few centimetres above the naval it represents the fire element and is associated with the colour yellow- ruled by the sun. Yellow crystals such as citrine, tiger’s eye, yellow calcite, yellow sapphire: If your solar plexus is already overactive to do wear yellow and can cause acid reflux, headaches, migraines and hypertension. You need the cooling energy of green coloured crystals used for the heart chakra.
Anahata: Heart- Located at the centre of the chest, the chakra is associated with the air element and the colour green. Influenced by the planets Mercury and Venus. All green crystals such as malachite, green aventurine, green tourmaline, peridot, jade, scraphinite and moldavite. Pink is associated with love thus pink stones such as rose quartz, kunzite, morganite, and watermelon tourmaline will assist this chakra.
Vishuddhi: Throat- Corresponds to the cervical plexus of nerves and controls the thyroid complex. It controls some systems of articulation, the upper palate and epiglottis and aligns with the ether and colour blue. Crystals such as aquamarine, angelite, blue topaz, blue lace agate, moonstone, amazonite, blue calcite, larimar and turquoise.
Ajna: Third eye. Located between the brows. Chakra associated with our sixth sense, the colour indigo and the planets Jupiter and Saturn. All deep blue coloured crystals such as azurite, lapis lazuli, sodalite, purple fluorite.
Sahasrara: Crown- seat of enlightenment or connection with the higher consciousness. Crystals-amethyst, clear quartz, diamond and sugilite.

Chakra healing with aromatherapy and crystals: Energy healing is an intuitive work: The first process involves chakra assessment. Pendulum or using palms to feel the energy. The next step is to anoint chakra oils at the chakra points. Once the essential oils are anointed you can use the chakra essential crystals for healing. Avoid using tumbled stones. You can use a chakra wand to activate or a double terminated quartz. Remove crystal from body and clean.

Reflexology: A non-evasive therapy. The hands and feet are the microcosmic representation of the whole body. A reflex is an involuntary muscle contraction caused by an external stimulus. Reflex zones are the terminal points or endings of nerves and are directly connected to a distant organ or part of the body. The human body has a tremendous energy to heal itself: this healing energy surges through the body in specific pathways and could be tapped at different points: the reflex points. The energy blocks in our bodies are reflected at the hands and the soles of the feet. The benefits of reflexology massage can be enhanced by using essential oils or specific chakra oils in the chakra zone.

Colour Healing: P207
Red: associated with the muladhara- base root- Physiology, vitality, muscular activity, blood pressure, respiration and heart rate.
Orange: Swadhisthana- sacral- help fight depression and treat unhappiness.
Violet: Associated with manipura-solar plexus-prevents ambivalence, power, insight and intelligence. Yellow removes security and also increases critical and judgmental faculties.
Green: colour of growth and healing- anahata -heart chakra. Colour of balance.
Blue: Vishuddhi- throat. Symbolises truth and loyalty. Calming energy and soothes nerves.
Indigo: Ajna- third eye. Symbolises the end of polarity- ego- and unity- self. Calms the body and balances the mind.
Violet: Sahasrara- crown- colour of spiritual fulfilment- contentment and unification.

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Chakra's Part 2

The senses: Our awareness within the body constitutes the waking state of our consciousness, which is made up of the 16 components: the five sensory organs, five organs of action, five elements and the mind.
Smell: Our sense of smell is primordial, the most basic sense. It is associated with the muladhara chakra wherein we evolve from animal consciousness to human consciousness.
Taste: The Indian name for the sacral chakra swadhisthana is composed of swad- meaning taste and sthan- meaning place or centre.
Sight: Is associated with the solar plexus. Mental stress or poor digestion are related to the solar plexus chakra and lead to headaches and migraines and indicate an imbalance in the chakra.
Touch: We express our love through hugging or holding, touch being a therapy in itself. The anahata heart chakra is associated with love and is also the seat of the healer.
Hearing: The vishuddhi throat chakra is associated with our sense of hearing- we speak or express ourselves to be heard. When we are not able to express our emotions easily it results in blockages of the throat chakra.
Sixth sense- intuition: Associated and connected to our ajna- third eye chakra.
Seventh sense-common sense: Common sense requires awareness. There are two things we do regularly but are not aware of. The first one is breathing- the second thing we do unconsciously is rubbing the body which we do almost every day when we bathe or shower.

Nervous and endocrine systems:
The chakras represent the activity of our organs and glands: they are barometers of our health. Yoga spiritual practices impact the nerve plexus and thus the chakra. The human nervous system is composed of two parts: the central – or somatic nervous system- CNS which is responsible for voluntary actions and the automatic nervous system- ANS- which is independent of our will.
The CNS involves the brain and all its divisions within the skull- the cerebral cortex, thalamus, hypothalamus, pituitary, pineal body, mid brain, cerebellum, posn and medulla oblongata and the whole length of the spinal column. The higher centres of thinking, hearing and seeing and movement are located in the different areas of the cerebral cortex.
The ANS controls the activities of the internal organs and consists of two divisions: sympathetic and parasympathetic. Parasympathetic nerves arise from the brain and from the lower part of the spinal cord. The sympathetic system consists of nerves arising from the middle part of the spinal cord and extend from the base of the skull to the coccyx.
Sushumna is the central canal of the spinal cord: it continues into the cavities of the brain and is in direct contact with the hypothalamus and pineal gland. There is various autonomic nerve plexus situated on the two sides of the vertebral column. These are the lotuses associated with the chakras.
• Muladhara: base root- inferior hypogastric- pelvic- plexus.
• Swadhisthana: sacral- superior hypogastric plexus
• Manipura: - solar plexus: coeliac or solar plexus.
• Anahata: heart- cardiac plexus
• Vishuddhi- throat- plexus connecting the superior middle and inferior cervical ganglia
• Ajna: third eye- internal carotid plexus
• Sahasrara: Crown- pineal body.

Glands of the endocrine system: P74
Human bodies consist of two types of glands: exocrine and endocrine. Exocrine glands are the glands that release their secretions through ducts such as the liver and gall bladder. Endocrine glands do not have ducts and release their secretions-known as hormones- directly into the bloodstream. Since the nervous and endocrine systems are interconnected, then functionally an imbalance in one will affect the other.
The hypothalamus gland: is a small region of the brain that activates and regulates that part of the nervous system responsible for controlling involuntary body functions, the hormonal system and body functions such as sleep regulation, body temperature and appetite. It is regulated by the ajna-third eye chakra.
The pituitary gland: hangs by a stalk from the under surface of the brain. Influences growth and metabolism and stimulates the activities of other glands. The hypothalamus gland controls the pituitary gland and indirectly maser minds its orchestration. The pituitary glands have two lobes- anterior and posterior that release a wide range of different hormones. The process of nursing and intuition are associated with the third eye chakra.
Adrenal glands: Each of the adrenals has two parts: an outer cortex ad an inner medulla. In response to the release of adrenocortropic hormone-ACTH- which stimulates the release of cortisol from the pituitary gland, the cortex secretes a number of steroid hormones that directly affect the balance of salt, water and glucose in the body. Cortisol is usually secreted by the adrenal cortex and affects glucose metabolism according to our daily sleep and awake cycle.
Besides ACTH the pituitary produces endorphins and other related compounds. The adrenal medulla is intimately associated with the sympathetic nervous system. It’s main secretion- adrenaline- is related to noradrenaline one of the most important neurotransmitters of the sympathetic system.
Pancreas: The pancreas is located behind the stomach. Embedded within the bulk of its tissue lie numerous clusters of endocrine cells called islets of Langerhans that secrete insulin and glucagon complimentary actions in the maintenance of normal glucose levels. Insulin lowers blood sugar levels by encouraging bod cells to absorb more glucose and raises blood sugar levels by mobilising the sizeable store of carbohydrates present in the liver and converting it to glucose.
Thymus gland: Is regulated by the anahata- heart -chakra is called a gland although it is accepted that its primary function is regulatory mainly for the immune system. In adult life it continues to secrete significant volumes of the hormone thymosin which regulates the immune level. Thymosin is responsible for the manufacture of hormones, which are released into the bloodstream to control the rate of metabolism.
Thyroid gland: Is located across the front part of the upper part of the trachea-windpipe. It is associated with the vishuddhi-throat-chakra and is responsible for the manufacture of hormones to control the rate of metabolism. While all other endocrine glands produce their secretions when required, the thyroid stores within itself 3 months’ supply of hormones.
Pineal gland: This small organ lies deep within the brain. Pinealocytes the main cells contained in pineal gland are responsible for the production of melatonin which regulates sleep. Although considered to be part of the brain, the pineal gland is outside the brain blood barrier and lacks true nerve cells. It is associated with the sahasrara -crown- chakra.

Lymphatic system: The circulatory system has two aspects: the blood circularly system and the lymphatic system. While the movement of blood is regulated by the pumping of the heart, lymph movement is mainly due to muscle activity. A sedentary adversely affects our lymphatic flow and makes it sluggish. However other factors that affect our lymphatic system adversely are emotional blockages and stress. The swadhisthana chakra is associated with the water element and element that represents all the fluids in the body, including lymph. Lymph is all the interstitial fluid or the fluid between the cells. Our arterial blood carries oxygen, nutrients and hormones or all the cells in the body. To reach the cells at the extremity’s lymph leaves the small arteries and flows into the tissues filling the space between the cells. This fluid delivers its nourishing products to the cells then leaves the cells takings with its toxins and waste products. Our lymphatic system is a secondary circulatory system that supplies nutrients and drains the tissue fluids and toxins from the tissue spaces.
• Removing excess fluids and waste products from the interstitial spaces between the cells.
• Aiding the immune system by removing and destroying waste, debris, dead blood cells, pathogens, toxins and cancer cells.
• Absorbing fats and fat-soluble vitamins from the digestive system and delivering nutrients to the cells of the body.
The task of the node lymph nodes is to control the lymph transported to it. Every lymph node consists of lymphatic tissue enclosed in a covering of connective tissue. All lymph nodes have the primary function of the production of lymphocytes which help defend the body against microorganisms and harmful foreign particles and remove debris from lymph before it is returned to the bloodstream. The major lymph nodes are mainly found in six areas:
• Cervical region: grouped along the lower borders of the jaw, in front of and behind the ears, and deep in the neck along the larger blood vessels. Associated with the vishuddhi- throat- chakra.
• Axillary region: underarm region and receive lymph from vessels that drain the arm, the walls of the thorax, the breast and the upper walls of the abdomen. Associated with the anahata- heart-chakra.
• Inguinal region: receive lymph from the legs, the outer portion of the genitalia and the lower abdominal wall. The sacral chakra is the one that indirectly controls lymphatic circulation as the energy associated with it, called vyana vayu regulates fluid circulation in the body.
• Pelvic cavity: along the paths of the blood vessels within the pelvic cavity and receive lymph from the lymphatic vessels in the area. This area is also associated with the swadhisthana and muladhara- base root- chakras.
• Abdominal cavity: Nodes occur in chains along the main branches of the arteries of the intestinal and abdominal aorta. - Manipura- solar plexus.
• Thoracic cavity: Between the lungs and along the windpipe and bronchi. Anahata-heart- chakra.
The idea that our issues are in our tissues. As all emotional issues get stuck and stored somewhere in the body. The sacral chakra has a direct bearing on the heart chakra.

Chakra aspects and symbols: Chapter 6 P95

Ta**ra and eastern yogic systems describe the presence of seven major chakras between the head and up to the base of the torso and correspond to the major nerve plexus in the body. Each of the major chakras has two aspects: one on the front of the body: the ventral aspect and its counterpart on the back of the body- the dorsal aspect. These can be considered as the front and rear aspects of the chakras and are known as vortices- openings. The muladhara-base root and the sahasrara-crown- the first at the bottom and the last at the crown- have just one funnel like opening, they are termed single vortex chakras; The other five chakras have front and back openings and are known as double vortex openings.
The front or ventral aspect is related to feelings, while the back or dorsal aspect is related to will. Each of the chakras are associated with a symbol that depicts different aspects and spiritual relevance.
• The number of petals of the lotus flower
• Colour
• Animal
• Deity
• Yantra or geometric shape
• Bija Mantra

Each chakra has a specific number of petals denoting the vibration frequency: the higher the number of petals the finer the vibration. The lotus plant is considered to be the best example of spiritual ascension since the plant grows, symbolising tamas or ignorance: moves up through water, symbolising rajas or endeavour and aspiration an eventually reaches out of the water and blooms under the light of the sun, symbolising sattva or illumination. Thus, the lotus symbolises the evolution of man from the lowest state of awareness- tamas to the highest state of consciousness- sattva.
A bija or seed mantra is a single syllable sound. “Bija” means seed and like tiny seeds they have all the wisdom of a tree. Each chakra is assigned to a particular bija mantra such as ‘lam, vam, ram, yam, and hum, or aum/om’.

Chakra numbers and planets Chapter 7 P 101

Numbers and planets have an influence on a persons’ life and personality that is also reflected in their temperament and attitude toward life and in turn their chakra energies.

• Muladhara- base root- planet Mars Number 9
• Swadhisthana- sacral planets Venus, Moon, rahu, ketu Numbers 2 ,4,6,7
• Manipura- solar plexus- Planet Jupiter Numbers 1, 3
• Anahata- Heart- Planets Jupiter: Sun Numbers 5,6
• Vishuddhi- throat- planets Mercury, Rahu, Ketu Numbers 4,5,7
• Ajna: Third eye- Planets Jupiter Saturn, Numbers 3,8
• Sahasrara: crown- planet Saturn Numbers 8

Chakra Attributes: Chapter 8 P 105

Muladhara: Is associated with the physical functioning and physical sensations of feelings. Muladhara is the first chakra in the spiritual evolution of man. Located at the perineum- between the a**s and the ge****ls at the area of the pelvic plexus – the chakra represents the grounding of a being in the material world. The muladhara chakra represents a person basic nature-mool prakriti. The muladhara is depicted as a four petalled lotus of a crimson colour of red. In the centre of the lotus fire is symbolised by an inverted red triangle: on top of the triangle is the bija mantra for muladhara which is lam. The muladhara is the core of our physical existence. As our physical body is the carrier of our soul, we can say our physical body is our soulmate. The vayu or energy associated with this chakra is apana vayu the energy of elimination. Physiologically this chakra is related to elimination process, controls the urinary, s*xual and reproductive organs, influences large intestine functions and bowel movement and regulates the adrenals and go**ds. The chakra is responsible for everything about our physical body; skin, hair and the immune and skeletal systems. Skin problems such as allergies, eczema and psoriasis, regenerative powers, irregular bowel movement and renal system problems.

Swadhisthana: The Sanskrit word ‘swadhisthana’ comprises swa meaning one’s own- and adhisthan meaning dwelling place- it represents the true nature of a person. The term swad means taste which is associated with this chakra. The chakra is considered to be the desire centre of our being. -desires not just of physical or s*xual natures but all material desires are tasted. When we fulfill one desire another one crops up, leaving us always unsatisfied and wanting. When the desires are uncontrollable, we call them addictions: all additions result from an imbalance in this chakra. As long as we are ruled by our desires, we will never be happy and satisfied in life. This chakra is related to procreation, material desires, emotionality and emotional balance. Positioned at the p***c region, it regulates the go**ds and s*x organs and is responsible for the quality and quantity of s*xual energy, as well as its exchange between self and others at physical emotional and spiritual planes. Ayurveda and ta**ra associate the water element with this chakra. Our Earth is two thirds water and our bodies are made up of two thirds water. The water on Earth is affected by lunar cycles. People do experience mood swings, particularly during a full moon. Our unconscious minds record each and every perception, association and experience with a quarrel or bitterness having a stronger registration. These registrations play a part in our determining our day-to-day behaviour, attitudes and reactions and create a hindrance to our spiritual progress. The practice of mula bandha is effective in strengthening this chakra.
Among the healing crystals, carnelian is popular for the sacral chakra. Other stones are orange agate and orange calcite. Hessonite garnet is also a powerful gem stone.
Sandalwood is a powerful essential oil, while ginger, rosewood and juniper berry. Pure jasmine is an emotional balancer and anti-depressant.

Manipura: Manipura is associated with the mental body in our auric layer. The chakra also represents our lower mind and is responsible for our life ambitions, drive, mental power, logical thinking, reasoning and power-seeking attitude. This chakra governs the establishment of the ego in the human realm. The Sanskrit word “manipura’ derives from mani- meaning ‘jewel’ and pura meaning’ city’: literally it means ‘city of jewels. It is the seat of life ambitions, money, power, self-will, self-assertion and authority and ego. Manipura is symbolised as a 10 petalled lotus. The sense associated with the chakra is sight. The chakra is an important junction where prana and apana vayu meet, maintaining the balance of vital force. Manipura is responsible for the expression of individuality, and it is here that the dissolution of karmic account begins on the path of spirituality. According to ta***ic and Buddhist traditions the actual awakening process of kundalini happens at manipura not at muladhara. Anatomically speaking the solar plexus is a ganglion of nerves also known as the celiac plexus that is located in the V below the ribcage just below the diaphragm. A sudden reaction to mental or emotional stress will affect the body’s biochemistry leading to a sensation of butterflies in the tummy. The chakra is known as the seat of anxieties.
An over active solar plexus is the cause of a heated liver, leading to a high body acid level. It also causes high cholesterol, hypertension, high blood pressure, acid reflux, headaches and migraines and even diabetes. If this chakra is unduly suppressed it causes imbalanced digestion, bad sleep and increased irritability. It is the cause if weak of anxieties and excessive sweating on the palms and soles of the feet. Yoga recommends abdominal breathing to soothe the chakra. Alternate nostril breathing will relieve that ad promote better sleep. Yellow crystal such as citrine, tiger’s eye, gyprite, yellow calcite and yellow sapphire help to activate the solar plexus chakra. The cooling energy of green oils such as peppermint, spearmint and basil will soothe acid reflux and headaches and migraines.

Anahata: The fourth energetic layer, the astral body, is associated with the very special heart chakra. It is considered to be the bridge of the astral plane between the physical plane and the spiritual plane of existence. Anahata is about the universal love, playing an important role in our relationships. It is represented as a 12-petalled lotus. The vehicle for the bija is the black antelope, which is known for its compassion, alertness and quick movement. Vishni granthi is the second of the psychic knots located at the hart chakra. The chakra is about unconditional acceptance and about love for humanity and all that forms the universe. The vayu associated with this chakra is all prana vayu which is much more than the energy of breath: it is he vital life force as this chakra regulates all the organs of our survival. It is also known to be an important centre for healers to develop compassion. The chakra is related to the heart and affects all of its functions: the circulation of blood, volume of blood, lungs, tension. Blood pressure problems, cramps, spasms and sometimes cancer.
Since the colour of the heart chakra is green, all green crystals – malachite, green aventurine, peridot, jade and scraphinite will help. Essential oils of peppermint and spearmint and are one of the best remedies for asthma. Other useful leaf oils are eucalyptus and tea tree.

Vishuddhi: This chakra governs our communication ability, both verbal and physical. The Sanskrit word' vishuddhi' derives from shuddhi meaning ' to purify' therefore this embodies our purification centre. Our throat chakra can be affected by all other chakras. Most people with thyroid imbalances have sacral or heart chakra blockages as well. The manipura- solar plexus also influences the throat chakra. As this chakra is related to suppressed anger. This causes a heated liver. This chakra is responsible for the expression of our thoughts and ideas. The seed mantra associated with the throat chakra is ' hum'. The chakra is associated with the colour blue, all blue coloured crystal such as angelite, aquamarine, turquoise, amazonite, blue calcite, blue lace agate is useful for healing and balancing. The element associated with the chakra is ether the parts of a plant known to represent ether are the fruits. Citrus fruit oils from lemon, bergamot, grapefruit, tangerine and mandarin are useful to balance the chakra energies.

Ajna: Located between the eyebrows is our third eye of conscience. Two physical eyes see the present, while the third gives insight into the future; it is our seat of wisdom and intuition. The word ajna derives from a Sanskrit root and means ' to obey' or ' to follow': it literally means ' command' or refers to the monitoring centre. All experiences are ideas serve only to clarify our perceptions. The chakra is the seat of guru and is here you can discern the communication of the inner guru. Ajna is symbolised as a two petalled lotus, on the left petal are the letters' ham' and on the right' ksham'. Ta**ra and yoga maintain that the ajna chakra is the command centre and has complete control over our lives. It regulates the functions of the pituitary- master endocrine gland. Once the chakra is fully cleansed and opened for the first time is presents a state of non-duality, letting go of the ego. The chakra is associated with the various cognitive faculties of the mind, both for mental images and abstract idealism. The chakra is called the guru chakra: this is our guiding principle as it connects us to universal intelligence. When the chakra is open, we get correct thoughts, ideas and guidance. Conditions such as ADHD, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorders are all the result of a third eye chakra imbalance; these could be genetic or karmic in origin. Prolonged mental and emotional stress leads to a dull sluggish, third eye chakra, confused thinking and fogginess sometimes leading to headaches and migraines. Ajna is responsible for general allergies including asthma and diseases related to any endocrine gland. All kinds of breathing exercises help clear the third eye as they push more oxygen toward the head. The two most popular crystals are azurite and lapis lazuli. Essential oils of sandalwood, blue lotus, clary sage, lavender and kewra help to relax or sedate the mind. Holy basil, rosemary, eucalyptus, peppermint and frankincense can stimulate the brain and awaken a dull third eye chakra.

Sahasrara: There are two higher centres in the brain that are commonly referred to in kundalini yoga as bindu and sahasrara. Bindu meaning' a point' is located at the top back of the head. From ajna one moves to sahasrara which is located a little above the fontanelle. Located at the top of the cranium and associated with the cerebral plexus, this chakra is the place of void- emptiness or sunya – nothingness. This is the plane of tejas- light- the seat of enlightenment. Sahasrara is supreme. It is associated with the pineal gland and is the seat of higher awareness or our connection to universal consciousness. Sahasrara is associated with the seventh layer, the ketheric template. Located at the top of the cranium or cerebral plexus, sahasrara synchronises all colours- hence it is white light and encompasses all senses and their functions. Sahasrara is the culmination of the progressive ascension of kundalini- consciousness- through different chakras.
The sahasrara is the point of transformation, from the mind/body trap and moving beyond sense consciousness. The most important tool for crown chakra healing and balancing is to practice dhyana meditation to able the awakening of the guru within.
The best crystals for healing are amethyst, sugilite and clear quartz. The essential oils representing earth element include Brahmi, lavender, holy basil, blue and white lotus Ylang Ylang and rosemary.

Chakra Healing: P 157
Chakras are the barometers of our health, and an imbalance of a chakra is an indication of the existence of a disease in any of the organs associated with the imbalanced chakra. Energy is universal and we shape it with our thoughts and feelings. We can help the chakras and alter our state of mind using several modalities.
Ta**ra encompasses yoga and Ayurveda. Ayurveda is based on the science of life and longevity using plants and minerals for healing the body while yoga is described as the union of mind, body and spirit. Ashtanga yoga encompasses eight aspects of life and offers practices to help balance our energies. chakras respond very well to energy work that is mainly intuitive and we can also use crystals, aromatherapy essential oils, colour therapy and sound therapy.
• Yoga: Yoga is the inhibition of the modifications of the mind and encompasses the elementary training of the body to promote normal healthy and peaceful human activities. It provides the practitioner with an ability to control the modifications of the mind. Yoga generates positive, spontaneous energy and helps attain a balance of mind, body and spirit and be in control more of self. Yoga asanas- postures- accelerate blood circulation in the body, while pranayama- breath control abates carbon dioxide content, ensuring better health. Hatha yoga-patanjadi enumerated ashtanga-eight aspects yoga- involving an eightfold path, yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana and samadhi- are practice d for the upliftment of body, mind and spirit.
• Yama: concerns the rules followed by the practitioner living in a society.
• Niyama: A set program commensurate with self-discipline is adopted by the practitioner for personal development.
• Asana- means a 'steady and relaxing posture.
• Pranayama: means 'control of pranas' which flow through our breath. Pranas are the vehicle of the mind and nourish our consciousness and involves the manipulation of breathing patterns to move pranas in certain directions.
• Pratyahara: means' withdrawal of senses' it requires constant practices to bring about the internalisation of the mind and control the senses.
• Dharana: means' fixation of the mind on an object'. Focus the mind on various chakra points from muladhara upwards.
• Asana: means a steady and relaxing posture' Light physical exercise. Hatha yoga prescribes 84 asanas- postures to help tune up the physical body.
• Pranayama: - 'control of pranas' which flow through our breath. Pranas are the vehicle of the mind and nourish our consciousness. Manipulation of breathing patterns to move prana in certain directions- regulating inhalation and exhalation.
• Pratyahara: - means ' withdrawal of senses' – to do this we need to withdraw our senses by focusing on breath.
• Dharana: - means ' fixation of the mind on an object. The mind is restless and keeps drifting from object to object. It is practised while chanting the seed syllables associated with each chakra and directing breath energy to the chakra point.
• Dhyana; means ' meditation' which is training the mind into a state of thoughtlessness while focusing on each chakra. Dhyana meditation when mental diversion stops leading to the final state-samadhi- a state of equilibrium awareness.

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