Your Inner Knowing

Just in time to finish the year, we return to the last two chakras and how they bring us into contact with Unity Consciousness. The third eye chakra is called Ajña (pronounced AHJ – NYUH) and it means “to perceive.” It points to perception beyond what is usually taken in through the five senses. This is what we might call intuition or a sixth sense.

While there are some people who seem to be especially gifted in this area, the truth is that everyone has intuition, but not everyone makes the effort to use it. Most of us rely too much on our thinking minds or following someone else’s advice. We don’t lean enough into our own inner knowing.

The Vedic tradition teaches that all the answers we seek are within us. Looking outside may be a useful step in the process, but ultimately we have to look within and thereby take responsibility for our own decisions.

A fun and easy way to develop your intuition is to trust it when you get in your car to go somewhere. If you’re like me, you tend to go the same way every time even if there are multiple ways to get where you’re going. The next time you go, turn off your mental auto-pilot and ask your intuition how to go. Be careful not to let your mind get involved; just trust your gut. You’ll be amazed at how many traffic jams you miss! The more you do this, the stronger your intuition will become in every area of your life.

Yoga practices that activate the third eye include alternate nostril breathing and Child Pose with your forehead touching the floor, blanket or block. Mentally chant the mantra SHAM or OM while intending to listen to your own inner voice. Benefits include increased confidence and courage as you learn to trust yourself more. Great skills to take into the new year!