Understanding Chakras

                                              

There are seven energy centres in the body called “chakras.” The seven chakras parallel the spine, and each one has certain qualities and associations. However, it is important not to let any one or two chakras overpower the rest. 

The first chakra

Chakra one, Muladhara, means “root” and “support.” This chakra is located at the base of the spine. The verb associated with the first chakra is “I am.” The first chakra is usually about survival.

When the first chakra is malfunctioning, one of the manifestations of that malfunction is obesity. Through the first chakra, we work to understand and heal our bodies. The challenge to us is to accept our body, feel it, validate it, love it. Eating is a first chakra activity. When we eat, we are nourished, and our physical body is supported. Eating grounds us. Meats and proteins are first chakra foods.

A well-functioning first chakra opens us to our power and stability and allows us to grow. We are grounded, and this grounding brings us rest and solidity and stillness.

The second chakra

The Second Chakra is called Svadhisthana, which means “sweetness.”

Its element is water. The inner state is tears. Some of the malfunctions include bladder or kidney trouble. The food associated with this is liquids. And the location of this chakra is in the area of the genitals and womb.

Some of the functions and qualities associated with the second chakra are emotions, sexuality, desire, pleasure, creation and procreation. Socialisation is also a function of the second chakra. The verb that best fits this chakra is “I feel.” This energy is both emotional and sensual.

The second chakra is one of feminine energies. Not only are both sexuality and pleasure associated with this chakra, but also nurturing. Here is our desire for nurturing, nourishment, warmth and touch. Denying these desires causes serious imbalances in life. Overindulgences also will cause imbalances.

The third chakra

The third chakra is the Manipura chakra, which means “lusterous gem.” It is located in the area of the navel to the solar plexus. Its function is willpower. The verb associated with the third chakra is “I do.”

The glands and body systems it affects are the pancreas, adrenals, digestive system and muscles. When it malfunctions, the resulting problems can include ulcers, diabetes and/or hypoglycemia.

The solar plexus chakra has to do with “belonging.” If it is open, the individual will feel that he/she belongs to everything, firmly grounded to his/her place within the universe. It is a mental chakra but directly related to the emotions, since Mental understanding regulates one’s emotional life. If the chakra is open, one will be more likely to have a deeply fulfilling emotional life that does not overwhelm. However, that person might also be more susceptible to psychic “attack” or getting lost in the stars. Physical pain in the chakra stems from overuse.

If the chakra is closed, feelings will be blocked. A person might not feel anything and would not understand the deeper meanings of emotions and might not be connected to his/her greater life's purpose.

The fourth chakra

The fourth chakra, called Anahata, is located at the heart. Its function is love. Its element is air. The inner state is compassion and love. The verb for this chakra is “I love.”

The gland associated with the heart chakra is the thymus, and the other body parts are the lungs, heart, arms and hands. When there is a malfunction of the fourth chakra, physical problems such as asthma, high blood pressure, heart disease and lung disease can result.

The love we feel at the fourth chakra is felt toward everything we encounter, because it is felt within as a state of being. At the heart chakra, our love is no longer one of need or desire. Love at the heart chakra is one of joyous acceptance of our place among all things, of a deep peace that comes from lack of need and of a radiating quality that comes from harmony within the self.

The fifth chakra

The fifth chakra is called Visuddha, which means “purification.” It is located at the area of the throat. Its function is related to communication and creativity. The glands that it affects are the thyroid and parathyroid. The other body parts related to the fifth chakra are the neck, shoulders, arms and hands.

The sense associated with it is hearing, and the verb associated with the fifth chakra is “I speak.” When this chakra malfunctions, you can encounter physical problems such as sore throat, stiff neck, colds, thyroid  and hearing problems.

The sixth chakra

Ajna, the sanskrit word for the sixth chakra, means “to know,” “to perceive,” “to command.” It is located in the head, at or just above the third eye level. The element associated with Ajna is light. Its function is seeing and intuiting. The verb that corresponds with this chakra is “I see.”

The body parts affected by the sixth chakra are the pineal gland and the eyes. Malfunction of the sixth chakra can manifest in blindness, headaches, nightmares, eyestrain and blurred vision.

This chakra is actually in the brain, so its nature is very mental. One finds inner vision as part of this chakra, as well as actual seeing and outer vision. That is why mystic and clairvoyant abilities are also associated with the sixth chakra.

The seventh chakra

The seventh chakra — the crown chakra — is called Sahasrara, which means “thousandfold.” It is located just above the top of the head. The seventh chakra represents thought, and its manifestation is information. Its function is understanding, and the psychological state that it creates is bliss.

The verb that corresponds to this chakra is “I understand.”

The gland affected by this chakra is the pituitary. Other body parts affected by the seventh chakra include the cerebral cortex and the central nervous system. When this chakra malfunctions it can result in depression, alienation, confusion, boredom, apathy and the inability to learn or comprehend.

With the discovery and the opening of the seventh chakra, we transcend from the physical to something beyond — perhaps even a greater consciousess. After all, we are not our bodies, but our minds and souls. We are part of the collective consciousness. We are part of the Great Spirit.

With thanks to Bee Bosnak http://life.gaiam.com/article/harness-power-your-chakras

Learn how to fulfill all of your dreams http:www.goalsandsuccess.co.uk

Achieve Your Goals Effortlessly

Everyone has goals. Whether small (“I would like to lose 5 pounds before the summer”) or big (“I would like to make a million dollars next year”), everyone has them.

But there is a huge gap between having goals and accomplishing them. The act of writing down your goals plays an important part in closing this gap. According to a study done on Harvard MBA students, within ten year’s time, the students who had written down their goals were making ten times as much as their classmates who had not written down their goals.

Here is how to write down your goals effectively and help you accomplish them:

1. Define your goals

This may be harder than you think. That is because oftentimes, we get caught up in our daily routines and lose track of our true desires in life. Most people are guided by their circumstances. But there are a few people who shape their lives according to their goals. Who do you think is happier: the person who is defined by their circumstances or the person who creates their circumstances? Which category are you in now? Which category do you want to be in?

Chances are, you are in the first group. But, the good news is that if you are reading this, you are probably trying to make it to the second category. In order to do this, you have to take stock of your situation. That means taking some time to sit down and reflect. Find some quiet, alone time. Sit down and consider your current situation from all angles and write down your observations.

If you need some help doing this, consider answering the following questions:

• Where are you now?
• Where do you want to be?
• What do you have to do to get there?

“It is not enough to take steps which may some day lead to a goal; each step must be itself a goal and a step likewise.” – Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

2. Look at the big picture

Envision where you want to be next year, the year after or five years from now. Think about long-term goals. Do not think about details or how you will accomplish them. Simply allow yourself to dream and to think about what it is you truly want. Whether it is a personal or professional goal, just let your heart speak. Maybe you want to be married with children in five years’ time. Maybe you want to run a marathon. Or you want a job that you both love and that pays well. Or you want to take time off to travel. Whatever it is, no matter how far from your current circumstances it may be, write it down. 

 3. Look at the small picture

Now, is when you start to fill in the gap between where you are now and your dreams. What is the first step? If you want to be married and have children, fill out a profile on an online dating site or let your friends know that you are interested in meeting someone. If you want to run a marathon, get yourself a personal trainer at a gym or join a running club. Maybe visit a sports nutritionist to make sure you are getting the nutrients you need in order to stay healthy and competitive.

If you want to land your dream job, think about your qualifications. Do you need to take some courses in order to be a candidate for the job you want? If you already qualify, start sending out your resume. If you want to travel, how could you convince your boss to let you take the time off? What about arrangements for a house-sitter or sub-letter? Who could take care of your pets? What other steps are there between you and your goal? Map them out, step by step.

4. Use positive language

When setting goals, try to put things in a positive way. Negative goal setting implies that you are doing something wrong. It is like scolding yourself for not doing better.

Here are four examples:

• Do not say: Stop dating losers. Instead say: Find a successful, loving, supportive partner.
• Do not say: Stop being lazy. Instead say: Improve my fitness to have the body I want and increase my health, energy and self-esteem.
• Do not say: Quit your dead-end job. Instead say: Find a job that matches my skills, passions and financial goals.
• Do not say: Stop putting off traveling.Instead say: Prepare the way for an incredible traveling adventure.

Putting a positive spin on the language you use can make you feel excited about tackling your goals. Such attitude will help you overcome hurdles and make you determined to reach your future accomplishments.

“A goal is a dream with a deadline.” – Napoleon Hill

Whatever your goals are, studies show that the act of writing them down can have a significant impact on their outcome. Defining exactly what it is that you want, setting up the steps to get there and saying it all in a positive way are powerful steps to realising your dreams. So, grab a pen and get started.

With thanks to Janice Kersh http://addicted2success.com/success-advice/4-tips-to-writing-down-your-goals-effectively/h

Discover How To Instantly Transform Your Life http://www.goalsandsuccess.co.uk

Staying Positive in Adversity

“Keep calm and carry on” is a wonderful saying that you can take to heart when you are trying to keep calm in the middle of adversity. But it is not easy!

When you are in a difficult situation, your fight-or-flight response is in full active mode and you are hyper focused on the problem at hand. This is okay – you have to be primed for action and rapid problem-solving; however, that heightened state of a stress response, can cause you to make decisions that are not in your best interests. You do not have to let adversity keep in you in a state of fear – let it come, and then let it go!

A stress response is a reactive state. Things come flying at you, and you react. Many of these reactions can be counterproductive in that they may not have the long-term in mind. Here are some ways to learn to be more positive during adversity, so that you keep your vibration as consistently high as possible, and your choices serve you better:

1. Whenever you are faced with a decision during a time of adversity, do not make it immediately (whenever possible). Make sure you can take as much time as you need to make an informed and less emotional choice. If you can defer your decision for a day or more and give yourself time to consider your options, great. If you have to make a decision faster, insist on at least a few minutes to breathe and ask your higher self for guidance. It is essential to be open to hearing/feeling an answer you may not like.

2. Listen to your inner wisdom by heeding what your body is telling you. A decision that looks right on paper could be wrong for you – any tension, queasiness, uneasiness, anxiety, etc. in your body is a very clear signal that a particular choice is bad for you. Visualise yourself in a calm and happy space, choosing “Door #1” and pay close attention to your physical response. Then, visualise yourself taking that choice back and choosing “Door #2” – again monitor your physical response. Go with your gut feeling. Your inner wisdom will not steer you wrong!

3. Take time to express gratitude for this situation. This is the tough part, but you will find that if you dig into the amazing opportunities for growth and learning that this situation is bringing to you, you will see that it is possible to turn a problem into a cherished teacher. No, it will not make the situation fun, but it will make it feel important in a GOOD way.

4. Admire yourself! Give yourself props anytime you handle something gracefully, powerfully, confidently, compassionately, kindly and in a way that respects and honours you and your values. When you do not handle a situation in a way that you feel good about later, face it – accept that you made an unfortunate choice in your response, and learn from it.

Shifting your perspective to one that honours the inherent lessons and growth opportunities in the situation will help you see it in a more positive light.

With thanks to Christie Marie Sheldon http://www.loveorabove.com/blog/tips-for-being-positive-in-adversity/

Bring Lasting Change to Your Life http://goalsandsuccess.co.uk

Motivation

Are you looking to get motivated again to get your so important goal done? But somehow it feels so difficult to get motivated and make at least just one tiny little step forward, right?

It is just not happening…

But why?

And how can you fix this and get your motivation up when you need it? Like… right now?

What has happened to "My Motivation"?

Do a little exercise before you read on and ask yourself:

Why am I not motivated?

Asking the right questions is in itself  a little self reflection that can clear things up for you. If you like, write your answer down. Do it, it is worth it.

What is Motivation?

When you are motivated, you have a motive. In other words: a goal that drives you to take action.

Motivation is your inner driving force to close the gap between your goal and reality. 

So motivation happens if you have a strong goal. But there is even more about motivation…

Your motivation is answering one single question. The most important question: Why?

If you have a strong enough reason—a big, BIG WHY—you will have all the motivation you will ever need. Your BIG WHY is this Driving Force.

So to answer the former question, let us take a look at the core reason why we loose motivation:

The Core Reasons for No Motivation

What might come to your mind may be distraction. But distraction is no reason—it’ is already a result. It is the result of:

Lack of Clarity. If you are not clear on what you want it is difficult to get motivated. Lack of clarity means you have no clear aim, no specific and compelling goal of where you want to go.

More precisely you are not connected emotionally to the great outcome that this goal can produce in your life. The result is you are not very motivated to take any kind of action.

Overwhelm. If you have too much “clutter” on the table you are overwhelmed and your focus gets fuzzy. This is not a good environment for effective action. Instead it drowns your motivation. You need to simplify your life and learn to say "No" to things that are not truly  important to you.

 Fear gets in your way. If you know clearly what you are after—your goal—and you are not overwhelmed anymore, there might still be something getting in your way: Fear.

Fear of failure, or even fear of success. You have to feel the fear and do it anyway, and develop ways to face your fears productively.

Negative Results. Let’s face it: If you tried very hard but come up short anyway, it can drag you down. Everybody feeds on little successes. We need positive reinforcement to build up positive momentum.

If you are looking for an instant push in motivation, here are three powerful quick tricks:

1. Re-Connect Your Big Why

This is for re-igniting drive and putting new meaning into what you do:

1. Ask yourself Why: Why are you really doing this?
2. Uncover all the powerful reasons that got you started on your task in the first place. Then what else is a reason that will drive you to action?
3. Write all reasons down.

Notice how this clears the fog off your mind and gives you a strong sense of meaning.

2. The Vision Blast

This is something for the “dream big” type of person:

1. What is the most compelling, ideal outcome of your goal?
2. Got it? Good. Now close your eyes.
3. Visualise this outcome vividly in your minds eye. Make it big. Make it huge and colourful. See yourself achieving it. Feel how great it feels on all senses.

Do you feel a rush of motivation?
Great. Take action towards this outcome now!

3. The Check-Off

This is something for the “short-term gratification” type of person:

1. Which task - a little thing - that takes you towards your goal can you complete today?
2. Got it? Awesome. Now focus on this one little thing and get it done—no matter what.
3. Do just this little baby step and check it off your to-do list.

If you have done it, feel the sense of accomplishment and start building up in positive momentum.

You have a first success!

Now build on top of it from here.

To read the complete article go to http://www.myrkothum.com/get-motivated/

Discover The Missing Keys To Abundance http://www.goalsandsuccess.co.uk

Turbocharge Your Enthusiasm

The word ‘enthusiasm’ comes from Greek and means God within (entheos). It refers to a divine spark or fire that burns within the breast of those with a passion for a cause, job, or life in general. “Enthusiasm,” according to Henry Ford, “is the yeast that makes your hopes shine to the stars. Enthusiasm is the sparkle in your eyes, the swing in your gait. The grip of your hand, the irresistible surge of will and energy to execute your ideas”. Enthusiasm is all that and a lot more. Years may wrinkle the skin, but the absence of enthusiasm wrinkles the soul. 

Did you ever return from a hard day of work completely drained? You plop down in a chair exhausted. After hearing a ring, you get up and struggle to the phone. Your friend is on the line, enthusiastically describing a party taking place at his home. “Come on over,” he says. You know what happens next . . . Suddenly you find yourself filled with energy and on your way to the party. That is an example of the power of enthusiasm. It is a source of boundless energy. The trick is to expand your passion to include your job, family, and all that life encompasses. Once you do so, you will never be tired again.

Enthusiasm will not only make you more productive, but it will lighten burdens and make obstacles easier to overcome. You will have the energy to succeed. It will also make you happier.

Enthusiasm is contagious, but so is the lack of it. Look about. Are your companions moping around with glazed eyes? If so, maybe it is because of you! Turn on your mental ignition; get excited and you will find that your enthusiasm will spark theirs. When you are enthusiastic in the workplace, you inspire others and win their cooperation.
Turbocharging Enthusiasm

Enthusiasm, like the fuel in the tank of our car, will take us where we wish to go. But when we turbocharge it, enthusiasm transforms into passion. An all-consuming passion provides the drive and commitment to succeed.

A person without passion has no more value than a candle without a flame or fire without light. By passion I mean zeal, fiery enthusiasm, or fervor. It is the force that relentlessly drives one forward. It is a burning desire that creates commitment to a person, project, or to life itself. A world without passion is a world without Mother Teresa, Mozart, or Michelangelo. Every great endeavour has been fueled by passion.

The opposite of passion is indifference. A society in which no one cares about their job or country is on the verge of collapse. Passion is the motor that propels us to our destination and the glue that binds our society together. However, not all passion is good. The fire which enlightens is the same fire which consumes.

Also, passion is not to be confused with obsession. When we are obsessed, we are controlled by cravings. We become slaves to addictions and compulsions. The only progress we make is downward. Once we are in a tailspin, it’s hard to recover by ourselves. So, if we find ourselves in such a predicament, we need to find outside help. Passion, on the other hand, is a conscious decision. We choose to devote ourselves to a worthwhile cause, such as our family, career, or charity.

Passion has magical power. It can bring the nonexistent into existence.  Another magical quality of passion is its ability to lighten our load. With the wave of a wand, work  becomes fun! Tedious effort becomes exciting! Passion is also power,

You will also find that doors that are locked suddenly open for those with passion. How can one resist their enthusiasm? Even if the doors remained shut, the fire of their passion would burn them down! The passionate have big dreams and big dreams come with big problems. But who cares? Those with passion are focused on their goals, not themselves. They are wrapped up in their dreams, not their worries. They don’t have the time or inclination for self-pity. When things go wrong, they learn from their mistakes and quickly continue on their way.

Consider for a moment, what are the alternatives to a life of passion? Would you rather go to work with a frown, instead of a smile? Would you rather lead an empty life or one filled with purpose? Would you rather delight in or dread the beginning of a new day? Would you rather be barely surviving or a success? Whenever it is a matter of ability or passion, passion is always the victor in the battle for success.

Recapping the Benefits of Enthusiasm and Passion

1. When we plug into enthusiasm or passion, we plug into energy. Another way to say this is with the formula, “E=mc2.” That is,Enthusiasm = motivation x courage. In other words, enthusiasm equals the willingness and courage to act. The path to greatness is covered with obstacles, which explains why so few achieve it. But enthusiasm provides the energy to succeed.

2. Do you wish to be a leader? The key to charisma, persuasion, and influence is enthusiasm and passion.

3. Know how and talent offer little help when unaccompanied by enthusiasm. But passion transforms ordinary people into extraordinary ones. Every great deed was brought about by enthusiasm.

4. Enthusiasm makes life more pleasant. 

Caveats

1. We have a natural yearning for excitement, but if we do not channel that desire properly, we may seek it in all the wrong places, such as drugs. Are you searching for happiness? Do not waste your time. Rather, search for something good to be enthusiastic about, and happiness will automatically follow.

2. Dare to dream big. It is hard to whip up enthusiasm and passion for small or trivial projects. Big, yet achievable, goals will provide a life purpose.

3. Beware of a common mistake; do not wait until you feel enthusiastic, inspired, or feel good before you begin important tasks. Act first and good feelings and enthusiasm will follow. working. 

4. Once you are enthusiastic, do not assume you will automatically remain that way. All emotions are subject to change, unless you regularly cultivate them. To maintain the fire of enthusiasm you must feed it with new hopes, actions, effort, and vision.

5. Tune into your dream. Wrap yourself up in it. You have to experience it in your mind before you experience it in life. What does it smell, sound, taste, and look like? Feel it.
Tips on Cultivating Enthusiasm and Passion

1. What about your job? You will not be enthusiastic about it unless you love what you do. If you were unable to find a job that you are passionate about, make the best of the situation. Look for the good and the potential of your present job. Also, make a plan and take action that will lead you to the job of your dreams. It may be a long struggle before you get there, but like climbing Mount Everest, you will find the journey exhilarating.

2. Do not waste time by hanging out with negative people. Stick with a circle of enthusiastic and optimistic friends. If you need more friends, consider joining a club such as Toastmasters International, for their members are usually enthusiastic.

3. We live in the largest room in the world. The room for improvement! The fact that we can improve ourselves is exciting. A sure way to inject some enthusiasm into your life is to take adult education courses, read good books, learn martial arts, how to dance, or anything else. Embrace life and light the torch of others with your own enthusiasm.

4. Another helpful act is to keep a Gratitude Journal. Keep a diary or journal, and at the end of each day list at least five things that you are grateful for. This will help you focus on the positive and appreciate life. When done every day, Gratitude Journals can transform lives.

5. Did you ever enjoy a good movie? Is it not  true that once the lights dim and the movie begins you quickly become immersed in it and grow interested in the unfolding plot? The next time you go to work, tell yourself you are in a movie theater and you will immerse yourself in a remarkable movie called My Life. Carefully watch how the plot progresses; focus on all the twists and turns. In other words, remain present, stay aware, and enjoy each challenge and opportunity that comes your way. Do not be like some others who allow their minds to drift and wander, missing their own life story. How can you be enthusiastic about something you are not paying attention to?

6. Our mind (thoughts), body, and emotions form an integrated triad. A change in one changes the other two. You can use this knowledge to bring about instant change. For example, let us say you are at the office and are supposed to start working on an important project, but you lack enthusiasm and cannot seem to get started. Well, stop wasting time. Get up from your chair and mentally recall a time when you were very enthusiastic. How were you standing? Were your shoulders erect or sloping? Were you standing straight or slouched? What was your breathing pattern like? What was the expression on your face? What kind of thoughts flooded your mind?

When you feel enthusiastic, your emotions cause your thoughts and physiological stance. So, if you now change your thoughts, your emotions and physiology will also change. Likewise, if you change your physiology (posture, breathing, gestures), your feelings (emotions) and thoughts will change. So, force yourself to stand, breathe, and act the way you did when you were enthusiastic, and your physiology will change your thoughts and feelings, allowing you to return to work and get the job done! 

7. If you want a quality, act as if you already have it. So, if you want to be courageous or enthusiastic, act as if you already are. Action seems to follow feeling, but really action and feeling go together; and by regulating the action, which is under the more direct control of the will, we can indirectly regulate the feeling, which is not.

8. Recapture the curiosity, exuberance, optimism and laughter of youth. Never grow up. Stay young at heart. After all, people do not lose their enthusiasm because they grow old. Rather, they grow old because they lose their enthusiasm.

Finally, let’s remember the words of H W Arnold “The worst bankrupt is the man who has lost his enthusiasm. Let a man lose everything in the world but his enthusiasm and he will come through again to success”.

To read the complete article go to 

http://www.personal-development.com/chuck/turbocharging-enthusiasm.htm

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