The chakra system, which dates back to ancient yogic philosophy, is a term used to describe the interconnected energy centres in the human body that are said to correspond to various parts of our physical, emotional, and spiritual selves. From the base of the spine to the crown of the head, there are seven chakras, each of which is associated with particular organs and body parts and showcases unique attributes and functions.
Previously we read about Throat Chakra, but this week, let us delve into understanding the Third Eye Chakra that holds immense significance as the seat of intuition, insight, and inner wisdom. 
What Is The Third Eye Chakra?
Located in the centre of the forehead, between the eyebrows, the Third Eye Chakra also known as Ajna governs our intuition, imagination, and spiritual insight. The energy of this Chakra acts as a gateway to higher consciousness and supports our ability to see beyond the physical realm. The Sanskrit term ‘Ajna’ signifies ‘perception’, ‘command’ or ‘something beyond wisdom’. The Third eye chakra helps to provide a clear vision, trust our inner instincts, and make significant decisions aligned with our higher purpose.
The Element That Third Eye Chakra Governs:
The Dhatu or element of nature that is connected to the Ajna chakra is Light or Tejas Dhatu. Light or brightness brings clarity to all the five sense organs in the body.
The Physical Body Connected To Third Eye Chakra:
The third eye is primarily associated with the pineal gland, a small gland that lies deep within the brain tissue and mainly secretes melatonin which plays a key role in regulating the body’s internal clock mechanism thereby influencing the circadian rhythms and reproductive hormones. It also plays a crucial part in regulating the functions of the body’s neurological system including the brain, eyes, nose, ears, pituitary gland, and pineal glands.
The Emotional Body Connected To Third Eye Chakra:
The literal term ‘sixth sense’ comes from this sixth chakra within the body as this third eye chakra is associated with clairvoyance, intense intuition, mystical visions, self-awareness, higher wisdom, visualization, discernment, imagination, the ability to observe chakras and auras within oneself, precognition of certain incidents and out-of-body experiences. It is the realm where we develop an impersonal mind and detach our soul from the physical form and mental illusions. The Third eye chakra helps to transcend thoughts, worries and fears and to know our inner self deeply from within.
The Mental Body Connected To Third Eye Chakra:
The third eye is the primary location that holds a unique combination of facts, fears, personal experiences and memories which might not be available all the time but are buried deep within the subconscious mind and are active within the energy of the mental body. When activated, both hemispheres of the brain work together and help us transcend dualistic thinking.
The Symbol That The Third Eye Chakra Represents:
The Ajna chakra is represented by the Sanskrit letter 'OM' placed over an inverted triangle that is secured within a circle between two lotus petals. This symbol is violet or indigo in colour which is associated with night and opens the door to the divine. It mainly comprises two elements associated with wisdom; the lotus flower and the upside-down triangle.
The Mantra That Activates Third Eye Chakra:
The third eye chakra is chiefly aroused by the intimidating fragrance of vanilla and is opened by chanting the Bij mantra ‘Om’.
The Mudra That Awakens Third Eye Chakra:
The Throat Chakra can be activated if you perform the Shambhavi Mudra (Third Eye Chakra Mudra).
Sit in Sukhasana with your backbone straight. Close your eyes and fix your inner gaze towards the centre and slightly concentrate on the spot between your eyebrows — the point known as the third eye. Shambhavi Mudra is linked to Shambhu (one of the iterations of God Shiva who also represents the Supreme Self).
Also Read: Kundalini Yoga: Know How To Awaken The Chakras Of The Body
What Happens If The Third Eye Chakra Is Out Of Balance?
An imbalance of the Third eye chakra often causes headaches, vision problems, eye problems, brain disorders, neurological imbalances, migraine, insomnia, endocrine imbalance, and disorders in the pituitary gland, pineal gland, and hypothalamus.
It manifests emotionally in the form of indecisiveness, confusion, lack of focus and purpose, depression, self-limiting beliefs, narrow-mindedness, mood disorders, impatience, expectations, burdens of the past, feeling disconnected from the inner self, delusions, and many more negative thoughts that block your sixth sense or inner vision.
Well, if you want to evade the side effects of an overactive or underactive sixth energy point, practice these 5 remedial yogasanas to unlock the boundless wisdom that resides within you and harmonize the Ajna chakra naturally.
Yoga Poses To Balance The Third Eye Chakra
Child's Pose (Balasana):
Begin your practice with Balasana, a grounding and introspective pose. Kneel on the floor, sit back on your heels, and fold forward, resting your forehead on the mat. Allow your arms to relax by your sides or extend them forward. As you surrender to the pose, focus your attention on the point between your eyebrows, stimulating the Third Eye Chakra and inviting clarity.
Dolphin Pose (Ardha Pincha Mayurasana):
Dolphin Pose strengthens the upper body and activates the Third Eye Chakra. Start in a tabletop position, then lower your forearms to the ground, keeping them parallel. Curl your toes under, lift your hips, and press back into an inverted "V" shape. Gaze towards your feet or slightly forward, directing your focus inward, and allowing your intuition to awaken.
Cat-Cow Pose (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana):
This gentle spinal movement helps release tension in the neck and shoulders, promoting clarity in the Third Eye Chakra. Begin in a tabletop position, with your hands below your shoulders and knees below your hips. Inhale, arch your back, lift your head, and gaze upward (Cow Pose). Exhale, round your spine, tuck your chin towards your chest and look towards your navel (Cat Pose). Flow between these two poses, syncing your breath with the movements.
Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana):
Paschimottanasana calms the mind, stretches the spine, and brings the focus inward. Sit properly on the floor with your legs stretched in front of you. Inhale deeply, lengthen your spine and exhale as you fold forward, reaching for your feet or ankles. In case your hamstrings feel tight, you can bend your knees slightly without putting much force on the thigh muscles. As you fold, visualize the energy of the Third Eye Chakra flowing freely and balancing within you.
Meditation (Dhyana):
Meditation is a powerful tool for activating the Third Eye Chakra. Find a comfortable seated position and close your eyes. Take a few deep breaths to settle your mind. With each inhale, imagine a vibrant indigo light flowing into the space between your eyebrows, awakening the Third Eye Chakra. As you exhale, envision any blockages or imbalances being released. Allow your awareness to rest on this area, cultivating a sense of inner stillness and expanded consciousness.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the third eye chakra affect intuition?
A balanced third eye chakra sharpens your intuition, helping you make better decisions and trust your instincts.
Can the third eye chakra improve mental clarity?
Yes, opening and balancing the third eye chakra promotes focus, mental clarity, and better decision-making.
How does the third eye chakra influence spiritual growth?
The third eye chakra is crucial for spiritual awakening, expanding consciousness, and enhancing inner wisdom.
What are the signs of a blocked third eye chakra?
Signs of a blocked third eye chakra include lack of clarity, poor decision-making, and feeling disconnected from your intuition.
How can I activate my third eye chakra?
You can activate the third eye chakra through meditation, visualization, and practices like chanting or using crystals.
Does the third eye chakra impact sleep quality?
Balancing the third eye chakra can improve sleep quality by reducing mental clutter and promoting relaxation.
(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna Chief Content Editor)
Author Profile
Soumita Basu:
Soumita Basu holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Pharmacy and is keenly interested in Ayurveda, home remedies, yoga, fitness, diagnostics, and beauty. With nearly 6 years of experience, she produces evidence-based health content, including articles, videos, and infographics, to provide valuable insights to her audience.
References:
- Elevating the Inner-Consciousness “Third-Eye” Through “Vedic Manas Yoga” Practice
May 2024International Journal of Ayurveda and Pharma Research
DOI:10.47070/ijapr.v12i4.3158
LicenseCC BY-NC-SA 4.0
Authors: Acharya Balkrishna, Prashant Katiyar, Muskan Chauhan, Jaya Upreti, Shubhangi Srivastava, Upasana Aggrawal, Shalini Singh and Vedapriya Arya
- The 3rd Eye Chakra -the gateway to higher realms. Third-Eye Chakra Personal Assessment
August 2021
Authors: Stephen Canning
