Where is the Third Chakra? Solar Plexus or Navel?I was introduced to the concept of Chakras around twenty years ago and those first lines and pictures in an old occult book, that my friend showed me in his furious Saturn Return knowledge integration and light bulb frenzy, turned out to be closer to the truth than most of the Chakra stuff that I have seen since. I had the opportunity to visit India recently and I took the time to have private lessons with a Hatha Yoga teacher (Dr Prafullata). Yoga is Chakra work. It is the method of purifying the energy systems and allowing the energy circuits to flow freely in their divine power and have union of the powers within and connection to the Universe. That great all pervading essence that just is life itself. Yoga is Sanskrit for Union and Kundalini is the energy that you are born with and it sits in a coil at the base of the spine and provides nourishment and security throughout your life. There are a lot of warnings about raising Kundalini and rightly so. It is not a simple conjuring trick that unwinds a powerful sepent of energetic current from the base of your spine and then you are some kind of Cool Groovy Elite Awakened soul... It is a gently growing awareness and a move towards conscious action, thought, feeling and being that allows peace and calm balanced, thoughtful actions in the world and within. The Chakra positions as explained to me by my Guru are that each is at the back of the body near the spine and with palm outstretched and fingers extended one can find each of ones own chakras by measuring from the tip of the thumb to the tip of the liitle finger along the central channel of the body. Each of our chakric centres is alighned perfectly for us and our body proportions. During our Kundalini meditation masterclass my Guru described the base chakra as residing around the space of the perenium and the sacral chakra as being behind the top of the pubis. The third Chakra is located at the navel or close by. There is a large field that encompasses the solar plexus area yet this is also in the realm of the heart chakra and the inteplay of both will be significant in the manifestation, of this body areas energy field. This was a reminder and a revelation for me. In that first description of Chakras that I read many years ago with a friend, this was the description and the crown was white not violet. In the midst of my meditation I could tell that this description of the placement of the power centres made perfect sense and was the puzzle peice that had kept me from truly mastering Chakra knowledge and therefore a practice and method that could heal my world with implementation of chakra harmonizing practises. Each Chakra may be overly energized or of low ebb or so called blocked and each may even be both. The Chakras are as small disks, spheres and as great radiating funnels that stretch from a singular point near the spine to large swirling vortices either side of the body - front and back. The heart, throat, third eye and crown Chakras are a hand span above each to the next, yet attention to these is unwarranted until the grounded chakras are sturdy and secure. Yoga asanas (poses), Diaphahmatic breathing, relaxation techniques and healthy diet and lifestyle routines keep the whole body including the 108 Chakra points free flowing and balanced. One of Many depictions of Chakras from Eastern Philosophy:The Crown Chakra is a White flat discMany of our Western depictions and concepts of Chakras depict the crown chakra as Violet. The Chakras as with other colour reference symbolisms are different in different books and as they spread accross people time and cultures.
The most important thing is that our Mind is able to calm and centre when we want it to and that our foundations are stable. This is both physically and psychologically. This understanding is why I chose to study Naturopathy. Thinking is fantastic but the mind and chemically driven emotions function best when we eat, sleep and exercise well. Namaste. Origin: Egypt, Europe, Western Asia and Eastern Mediterranean.
Description: Family : Umbelliferae.Hardy annual, umbells of pinky - white flowers and feathery green leaves. Various chemotypes are found according to geographical location of same species. Plant Parts Used: Seeds, leaves, Aerial Parts. Properties: Narcotic ; mild laxative, digestive, carminative, appetite stimulant, analgesic, aphrodisiac, anti-oxidant, anti rheumatic, anti spasmodic, bacterialcidal, depurative, digestive, fungicidal, revitalising, stimulant ; cardial, nervous and circulatory, stomachic. Metaphysical Associations: Mars; Ares; Male - Yang; Fire; powdered seed in chalice of wine - love/ lust potion. Aphrodisiac; Incense can infuriate the mind for destructive purposes; binding love potion; protects the home; promotes peace; purifies the blood. Spiritual Qualities: Encourages longevity, cultivates an atmosphere of peace, cleanses emotional sphere. Medicinally: Tea from seeds purifies blood, clears complexion, strengthens urinary system, bladder infections, indigestion and colic (one cup before meals each day), digestive aid, joint pain, anorexia, spasm, poor circulation, flatulence, dysentery, piles, measles, nausea, toothache, painful hernia, stiffness, arthritis.Steeped as a tea (drink no more than 3 cups per day)-bathing/hydro therapy- aroma therapy-topically- Body Care: Spicy perfumes, eau-de-cologne, to cleanse and beautify the skin (poultice, cream, tea, bath), soaps, and toiletries. Home Crafts: Pot pourri (whole dried seeds fix oils in pot pourri), satchet mixes, incense, fragrance masker and enhancer in creams and perfumes, flavours tobacco, and makes nice fresh flowers. Culinary: Common ingredient in Indian curries, marmalade, gin, biscuits, pastry, mild garnish spice, gripe water, digestive remedies, liqueurs. Used by food industry especially meat products and by the pharmaceutical industry as a digestive and flavouring agent; ginger bread (dry seeds or roast to release sprey fragrance, marinades, meat, pickling spice, vinegars and oils, salads, and Mexican cuisine. Note: usually added to meals close to end of cooking process. Cautionary Note: Narcotic / very weak tea for children’s colic and indigestion for the elderly. Consult a Naturopath before taking large doses, especially when pregnant or lactating/breast feeding. In the Garden: All varieties (with the exception of Iman) are frost tender, plant in an open, sunny situation in good moist soil. In sheltered areas plant in close proximity in beds; keep moist. An unsuitable companion for dill or fennel; Shairin©7/2005. Postcards from the Edge
This is a small travel article that I wrote some time after staying at the Rainbow Temple in Rosebank.
I had met many foreign travellers the year before whilst travelling and living in New Zealand,
and took the opportunity to catch up again whilst they were in Australia near Byron Bay at the Rainbow Temple in Rosebank.
Byron Bay 'The Rainbow Temple' Rosebank
Earth meets ocean and sky meets the sun of each new day in Australia.
The Conch shell call of freedom sounds, aloud. Amidst the usual backpackers, tourists and free-flowing locals, there is space to be yourself. In 2004 I had the pleasure of finding myself in Byron Bay’s hinterland, at ‘The Rainbow Temple’. Walking up a windy mountain road, backpack on and guitar in hand, my mind was quieted by the beauty of the countryside. Some kilometres later, covered in sweat, I emerged from the rainforest to see a four storey, brightly painted, solid wooden building, set into the side of a mountain, a breathtaking and magnificent spectacle. I was greeted by regulars and travellers going about the daily routine of cleaning, cooking and tending the gardens full of fruit, ornamentals and herbs. I was directed to the owner and heartily welcomed by ‘Rainbow Guy’ to his oasis of peace and tranquillity. I felt right at home in the communal space and living of ‘Rainbow Temple’ life. People from all, walks of life, visit this place for respite, relaxation, meditation and conversation. A place where, speaking of angels, spirits elementals and god/dess-e/s is not shunned. The interplay of energies in the world around us is acknowledged. The ‘Rainbow Temple’, building, is in a constant state of growth and change. The design is based upon geometry of the interlaced triangles of spirit and matter, and the heights that creation can aspire to and reach through a balanced centre and steady climb up the spiral staircase of awareness. One of the tasks to perform each day, in exchange for room and board, was to keep the kitchen facilities clean. As the hub of activity and the visitor reception and replenishment area, the dynamics of a clean and clear atmosphere were evident. It gave me, a great sense of pride to put energy into a place where dreams can come true and ideals are made a reality. I had many opportunities to become more aware of myself, my relation to others and the world around me. The anecdotes of Rainbow Guy, Silver Feather, J.J. and Cam, along with the acceptance, friendship and love of these and many others, encouraged me to look at myself and be myself in a naturally conscious way. Life is in every moment giving us opportunities to learn and grow through experience, expanding our awareness of ourselves and of life itself. Alas, the constancy of change urged me to move on. As I continue moving and changing, I am thankful for these places and times, when life gives us the opportunity for growth. In humble gratitude, may the wings of peace, fill our world with laughter. Shairin©2006
The Council requires the owner to have structural work done to gain building approval you can sign the petition
These adventures and many more, all contribute to my Holistic Health Coaching style and the many Interesting topics that we can discuss. :)
Essential oils are scientifically called Volatile Oils and damage the delicate lining of your oesophagusOne drop of essential oil is equivalent to 30 cups of herbal tea. And the recommended dose of Herbal teas is three cups of the same tea per day. Remember to only use a few drops of essential oils to preserve our earths plant life as well as avoid the expense and risk of skin reactions occasionally including quite severe burns. Never drink essential oils even diluted in water because their chemical structure damages the lining of your oesophagus. This subtle damage may not be noticeable but it is an unnecessary injury to the delicate cells. When foods and medicines contain essential oils they are encapsulated or combined with other ingredients to minimise damage to the mucous membranes of your throat and ensure delivery to the stomach for breakdown and intestines for absorption. Smelling essential oils is a straight to emotional brain centre and safer path. The scent of a flower, leaf or spice is its essential oils emanating from the air. Science calls them volatile oils because they rapidly disperse into the atmosphere and are combustible. https://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Essential_oil Spring is definitely here in Brisbane. The weather is warming up and there is a renewed sense of optimism in the air. Nature is flowing and growing in its season of new life and renewed vitality after the hibernation and nurturing foundation of winter. We can flow and grow in alignment with the Natural World too. Clearing out the clutter of our cupboards, wardrobes and bodies is naturally felt at this time. Gentle cleansing of the body is as simple as 1. Drinking plenty of water – 6-8 glasses per day rehydrates skin and tissues, improves digestion and renews the 80% water content of our bodies 2. Spending time walking or gardening is a gentle and enjoyable form of exercise. The weather is inspirational for all forms of exercise and moving the body is an excellent detoxifier. As we move the lymphatic fluids of the body are mechanically dispersed through their system and nutrients are delivered to cells and tissues whilst any wastes are simultaneously removed. 3. Taking time to ‘smell the Roses’. Appreciating the beautiful displays of nature, whether in flower blooms, foliage, butterflies birds or the changing colours of the sky is actually a form of meditation included in the Indian Vedas within the practise of Yoga which is essentially Union of the Self with the whole universe. The universe is vast yet nature and the earth we stand on is a vital and part of the whole. As are we. Speaking of vitality and nature…. 4. Is swapping commercially, over processed, convenience and comfort foods for nutritious whole foods and is a simple choice with the availability of fruits and vegetables at this time of year. Adding some summer vegetables, herbs and fruits to the hearty winter menu helps by keeping up the sustaining warm meal staples during the still chilly mornings and evenings whilst bringing in the new fresh salads and seasonings of spring. Fresh summer greens are plentiful and full of valuable vitamins and minerals. Cucumbers, tomatoes, lettuce, capsicum, parsley, spring onion and coriander are a gorgeous lunchtime salad waiting to happen. With the addition of nuts and seeds, quinoa, burghal, olive, avocado or walnut oil, apple cider vinegar, seasoning and perhaps olives and fetta, it becomes a balanced meal with carbohydrates, protein, fibre and the small amount of healthy fats that your body needs. The nutritional value of these humble vegetables is quite impressive. Cucumber is one of the best vegetable sources of Vitamin E which is needed as an antioxidant and for the cardiovascular system and muscle efficiency. It also contains Vitamin A, silicon, Vitamin A and natural Iodine for bright hair, skin and nails as well as sulphur and chloride which are utilized in liver detoxification pathways. (1) Tomatoes contain Vitamin A and C which are both essential for immunity and healthy skin, sulphur and chloride for liver detoxification, potassium and sodium for heart health, phosphorus for nervous system repair, silicon (1) and lycopene. Lycopene is a carotenoid type of phytochemical (plant ingredient) and is a brilliant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. As an interesting salad bonus, the vitamin E in cucumber enhances the effect of lycopene in the tomatoes. (2) Lettuce is high in silicon, a mineral which ensures calcium does its job in the body as well as aiding the removal of wastes from joints and tissues. Surprisingly, lettuce is also high in Iron another very important mineral. Vitamins E and C as well as copper, chlorophyl and biotin are also present. Chlorophyl is a blood tonic and detoxifier whilst biotin is essential for metabolism of fats and promotes relaxation. (1) Capsicum is a Vitamin C powerhouse and contains complementary bioflavonoids that assist Vitamin C absorption and promote healthy structure and functioning of the blood vessels in arteries, veins and capillaries. (1) Parsley is easy to grow and full of potassium. Parsley promotes removal of wastes from the kidneys and maintain the proper pH balance of the body. It also contains calcium, magnesium, iron, copper, manganese, Vitamin A, C and B group Vitamins B1, B2 and B3. (1) Onions have natural antiseptic oils that are beneficial to cardiovascular health and contain iron, calcium, magnesium, silicon the antioxidant Vitamin E and liver cleansing sulphur and phosphorous with small (trace) amounts of nickel. (1) These fruits, vegetables and herbs are considered cooling in nature and are therefore appropriate to eat during the warm middle of the day in spring and into the hot days of summer. (3) Using these simple spring cleaning tips helps your body eliminate accumulated wastes and harmonise with the weather and cycles of nature. Drinking plenty of water and moving your body get the circulation going and finding an appreciation for the beauty of nature and the amazing benefits of everyday whole foods is good for your mind, body and spirit. As a Naturopath I assist people in assessing and adjusting their diet, supporting healthy lifestyle habits and treating dis-ease with natural herbs, nutrients and medicinal foods. Spring Clean your daily food intake (diet) with a thorough analysis of your nutritional status, your bodies needs and find the best foods as medicine that you love and are easily added included in your meals and snacks. Shairin loves Food as Medicine and completed University level study on this subject. References:
(1) Koch, M. (1984). Laugh with Health. The complete illustrated guide to health, diet, nutrition, natural foods and recipe preparation. Bairnsdale: Renaissance & New Age Creations (2) Osiecki, H. (2010). The Nutrient Bible [9th Ed.]. Eagle Farm: Bio Concepts Publishing (3)Pitchford, P. (2002). Healing with wholefoods. California: North Atlantic Books |
AuthorShairin is a Naturopath and Usui Reiki Master/Teacher with a Bachelor of Health Science in (Complementary and Alternative Medicine and Medical Systems). Categories
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