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How the Endocrine System Works
Hormones are produced by the glands of the endocrine system and act as chemical messengers in the blood, affecting the functioning of cells. Only certain cells in the body, known as target cells, are receptive to particular hormones.
Hormone receptors are found either exposed on the surface of the cell or within it, depending on the type of hormone. The binding of hormone to receptor triggers a cascade of reactions within the cell that affects virtually every function of the body.
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.
Chakras and the Endocrine System
The endocrine system is a complex part of the human body and is still the process of being fully understood. The ductless glands of the endocrine system provide a chemical communication network that controls a huge number of physiological processes. Theosophist writers were the first to observe that the position of the chakras on the body parallels that of the glands of the endocrine system.
The Main Endocrine Glands
Each gland influences the production of particular hormones:
- The Pineal Gland is the most mysterious gland, currently the subject of much research. It secretes a hormone that may help regulate the patterns of sleeping and waking.
- The Pituitary Gland, often called the ‘master gland’, makes hormones that control several other endocrine glands.
- The Thyroid Gland hormones control the rate at which cells burn fuel from food in order to produce energy.
- The Thymus Gland plays an important part in the development of the immune system in early life.
- The Adrenal Glands play a large role in regulating the body’s response to stress, balancing the immune system and metabolism.
- The Pancreas, and more specifically the Islets of Langerhans (specialised cells) secrete the insulin needed for the metabolism of sugar.
- The Gonads (testes in men and ovaries in women) secrete the sex hormones testosterone in men and oestrogen and progesterone in women, which control sexual development, sex drive and fertility.
Source: The Chakra Bible by Patricia Mercier