The Crown Chakra

Location: Top of head (opens at top of channel opposite root)

Glands: Pituitary (sometimes Pineal)

Body Parts: Central Nervous System

Sanskrit Name: Sahasrara

Element: Thought

Color Vibration:Violet and White (containing all colors)

Keynote Vibration: B

Focus: Understanding, bliss, cosmic consciousness, enlightenment, divine purpose

Stones: amethyst, diamond, clear quartz

Incense: lotus, rose, spruce

Foods: Fasting

Affirmations:I know, I understand, I am one with all creation, I am in harmony

Disorders: The crown chakra has far fewer noticeable dysfunctions on the physical level, although certain types of cancers and aneurysms that have the effect of expanding consciousness might qualify.  For the most part, a disorder of the crown chakra would manifest in a blocked state, either a denial of the spiritual nature of being or an inability to accept transcendent concepts.

It might be noted that infants "come in" with a well expanded crown and root chakra, and that the other energy centers develop naturally as the child matures.  Since the crown and the root are both conduits for entrance of energy into the field, the root usually bringing in the deeper vibrations of earth energy while the crown brings in the higher vibrations, they can be considered to be like the poles of a magnet... both necessary for the correct balance and flow of energy throughout the system.  It might also be noted that the aspects of spirituality that illicit the strongest fear response are usually those that threaten the root (i.e. death or near death experiences).  Terminal illness is an opportunity for expansion of the spiritual center and a softening of the roots, preparing for release and transition.  Seen in this way, a person with such a challenge can transcend the physical aspects and move into an accepting, peaceful place, a true healing, or wholeness.

Exploration of soul purpose and greater life goals are a function of this energy center.  Beyond a place of "thought" or "imagination", this is a place of "knowing".  Meditation (sitting or moving), releasing attachment to personality fixations and desires, acceptance of the myriad aspects of "I AM" that include communion and blending with a higher power/creator, openness to sacrifice in order to accomplish higher objectives and exploration of spiritual potentials that reach past traditional religious experience are all ways that this knowing can be incorporated into being.  In this mindset, the past and future are conceptual aspects of an ever present now, and as such have less relevance to decision making or focus.  Like the eye of the storm, an open and well functioning crown chakra can behave like a shelter from the buffeting crises of incarnate existence.

Balanced with gentle temperence from the root, the crown chakra's influence can be boundless and expansive.  The crown is the apex of chakra development, but is not meant in any way to replace the functions of the other centers.  The crown can help a person in recognition of how their skills, experience and knowledge can assist them in personal growth.  The crown can help a person find "zen" in the simple and necessary tasks of living, or as the old expression goes, "Before enlightenment, sweep floor, cook rice; after enlightment, sweep floor, cook rice."  A deeper form of pleasure and satisfaction emerges, leading to a greater understanding and acceptance of potentials and limitations.

A vivid symbol of the crown chakra is the full moon, manifesting a reflection of the sun in purity and wholeness.

Some animal representations used for the crown are the twin snakes, Ida and Pengala, which represent the movement of kundalini, and the dragon, emperor of the lizards, whose medicine is mastering the dreamtime.

These materials copyright Caroline Gutierrez Abreu, 2000

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