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The Chakras are energy vortices of the energy body that comprise part of the energy system. When perfectly open and balanced, one is lead to the experience of a harmonious reality, connection to the Oneness in everything, and ultimately to union with the Divine Consciousness.
Ajna (The Brow Chakra)
The Brow Chakra or Ajna is also known as the Third Eye Chakra, the Eye of Shiva, ajita-patra, ajna-pura, jnana-padma, dwidala, bhru chakra and bhruyugamadhyabila. It is linked externally to the physical body just between (and slightly above) the level of the eyebrows.
The word ‘ajna’ means ‘servant’ or ‘command’ - in the sense of the Guru’s command of spiritual guidance. It is referred to as the ‘ocean of nectar’, the life-sustaining liquid that arises in the mouth of a yogi when he reaches a state of enlightenment. Ajna is depicted with two petals, representing the two aspects of prana that meet here. Its element is Ether.
The Functions of Ajna
In Tantric yoga, the Brow is associated with ‘manas’ or mind, which is beyond even the most subtle elements, although still part of our existence in an Earthly body. In recent Western occult and New Age thought, Ajna has been identified with the ‘Third Eye’ - our eye of psychic vision, a concept not found in the original Tantric system. When we fully associate ourselves with the power contained within Ajna we are able to step beyond the mind, with all its desires and longings, and enter the realms of the knowledge and wisdom. However, if this chakra is blocked, we will confuse information with knowledge; or get carried away with our own powers of insight and use them for our own means or spiritual arrogance.
Additional Chakras Associated with Ajna
Ajna is often described as having at least four distinct minor (but important) chakras in a vertical line above it: the Manas, Indu, Mahanada and Nirvana chakras, the last-named being at the top of the head. All combine their energies and resonate with one another to form the Ajna, ‘Third Eye’ or Eye of Shiva. Another minor chakra, the Soma, contains a triangulation of energy coming from the three main nadis (sushumna, ida and pingala), which combine to make the trinity of Brahma the creator, Vishnu the preserver and Shiva the destroyer.
Source: The Chakra Bible by Patricia Mercier
Main Characteristics at a Glance
Colour: White or Deep Blue
Key Issues: Balancing higher/lower selves & trusting inner guidance
Physical Location: The center of the brow
Associated Spinal area: First cervical vertebra
Physiological System: Endocrine and nervous
Endocrine Gland: Pineal and pituitary
Nerve Plexus: Hypothalamus
Inner Aspect: Intuition
Emotional Action: Clarity
Spiritual Action: Meditation