anāhata
anāhata
Anāhata is the heart chakra. The Sanskrit translation is “Sound produced without two touching parts”, while the English translation is “unstruck, unhurt, unbeaten”. As a symbol, anāhata is represented by a lotus flower with 12 petals. In the center of the flower are two opposite triangles intersecting forming a 6-point star. This represents the union of male (yang) and female (yin) energy, more specifically Purusha (of the heavens) and Prakriti (of the earth). In the center of the triangles is the seed syllable “yam” with a bindu (dot) above representing the deity Isha. Each of the petals is inscribed with a syllable.
anāhata symbol
Anāhata is the door to our soul, the infinite part of ourselves. It is where we transcend ourselves and the world without separating from the cosmic whole. When we are able to look at apparently contradictory experiences with a state of openness, we become detached from duality and experience a state of brightness and vigor. Anāhata relates to having the ability to love yourself, feeling kindness and compassion for yourself and others, to give and receive love equally and comfortably. When anāhata is imbalanced, we experience feelings of resentment, depression, judgmental feelings, the inability to let go and forgive. When anāhata is balanced, we experience feelings of calmness, serenity, and harmony.
Energetically, anāhata reminds us of cooperation and integration. Two opposite forces of energy synergetically meet at the heart chakra level becoming integrated and obtain sound without touching. Anāhata is associated with the ability to follow one’s heart, to make decisions based on one’s higher self outside the realm of karma without the influence of unfulfilled emotions and desires present in the lower chakras.
Padma Mudra (Lotus Mudra) is the mudra associated with anāhata. To experience this, find a comfortable seated position, rooting the sit bones down and sitting tall, bring your hands together in front of your heart. Leave space between the palms and the fingers, allowing only the tips of the fingers and the outer edges of the palms to touch. Release the first three fingers, leaving the tips of the thumbs and pinkies together. An open lotus flower is formed. Meditate on that space inside of you, imagine yourself completely empty and open. If you would like you can chant “YAM” during this practice. Empty vessels make the most noise!
If you are interested in opening the heart through asana, listed below are some heart openers. Opening the heart working with the physical body brings blockage to the surface and creates space for more love and compassion in your life. Trust the process.
Bow Pose
Camel Pose
Cobra Pose
Cow pose
Fish Pose
Full Wheel Pose
Half Frog Pose
Lord of the Dance Pose
Sphynx Pose
Upward facing dog
Wild Thing