The Five Most Important Taijiquan Skills for Beginners

The Five Most ImportantTaijiquan Skills for Beginners

Part 1 of a 3 part article by  

Wang Hai Jun

Translated by  Nick Gudge

- Feng Song -

Loosen the body by relaxing the joints

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Many people spend years studying taijiquan but for most of them their progress is slow in gaining the skills of taijiquan. Part of this is probably insufficient practice, but a significant element is not understanding the basic skills that beginners are required to develop. It is not possible to start taijiquan training and learning at a high level. Using conventional learning as an analogy, it would be like trying to start at Phd. research Level. In reality, first there is primary education, then secondary education, then undergraduate study etc. This is equally true in taijiquan. Without a good mental and physical understanding of the basic skills that are at the foundation of taiji, high level taiji skills will not be developed. It is not magic, but the result of consistent and sufficient training in the correct manner.

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When asked what I consider the five most important skills for a beginner student in taijiquan, I  listed them as:

1. Fang Song – Loosen the body by relaxing the joints
2. Peng Jing – an outward supportive strength, the basic skill of taiji
3. Ding Jing – upright and straight
4. Chen - rooted
5. Chan Si Jing – Reeling Silk Skill

These five basic skills should be considered the early steps in taijiquan training. Without these basic skills being embedded in the body and the accompanying changes that occur during the process, a student is stuck outside of taijiquan. They are learnt through exercises and in the process of learning and training the foundation form of taijiquan.

All of these ideas are very difficult to describe in words. In a recent article in the Spring 2010 edition of this magazine I wrote about the traditional Six Stages of Learning in Chen style taijiquan. At the request of my students, in this three part article I have provided some understanding of what to concentrate on as a beginner to make progress in Taijiquan,. This article introduces these ideas and examines more closely the first of them. The second article covers the second and third skills and the final article covers the fourth and fifth skills and summarises.

These beginners skills are complimentary to each other and are acquired slowly with persistence of practice. Understanding what they are does not come all at once. With the aid of a teacher, the mind grasps a bit of the idea first. Then, with considerable practice, the body gets the idea. Then with lots more practice it becomes a part of a person. It is not like a light switch, being either on or off, although some part of learning these skills can seem that way. Only when the body understands at a certain level can the mind grasp what is beyond that level. As many teachers have commented, it is not possible to jump to a full understanding. It is not a mental trick, or something to do with intellect or high intelligence. It is a process that has many possible detours and no short cuts. (This process has been described by several high level teachers such as Chen Zheng Lei and Chen Xiao Wang, in print.)

These five basic skills are not learned one after the other. The student does not completely understand fang songbefore starting to understand peng jing. Rather they are collective, with progress in each skill acting as an aid to progress in the others. A little bit more skill gained here and a little bit more there. Persistence in practice provides the opportunity for progress. The more practice done utilising these skills the more progress is made.

I thought at first to put Peng Jing as the first skill as it is the central taijiquan skill. However, without fang song,peng jing will not develop, so I will start by talking about fang song.

Fang Song – Loosen the body

The first of these skills is fang song, sometimes abbreviated to song. Song is frequently translated as “relax.”  While this is true, it does not really describe the process. The joints must relax, but as a consequence other parts of the body must work hard, particularly the legs. Loosening the joints is perhaps a better translation. The result should not be a body like a cooked bowl of noodles: rather it should be like a solid piece of rubber, strong but not stiff. The term fang has two meanings. The first is about something remaining under control, connected to both the mind and the body (i.e in this case not going limp.). The second is to put something down, away from you. The combination of these two meanings provides the understanding needed.

For most people studying taijiquan, song appears early on in their lessons. Unfortunately, most adults (and many children) are much stiffer than they realise. We do not know where we are tight, nor the degree of stiffness we generally maintain in our joints. In taijiquan, song describes the requirement of loosening the joints, relaxing the habitual stiffness from them, getting used to holding them without stiffness, then moving them without stiffness: Shoulders and hips, elbows and knees, the spine, particularly in the waist, the ankles and wrists.

When a joint is loosened, it is free to rotate or turn without hindrance or resistance. It is this ability that is required in taijiquan. The taijiquan classics talk of even the smallest pressure of a feather or a fly causing movement, like a finely balanced and oiled ball-bearing, where even the lightest touch causes it to rotate.

How do we know when a joint is stiff? Well, initially we do not know it is stiff, but as a learning tool it is probably more effective to say that as adults they always are, usually to a much greater degree than we realise. While this is an unpalatable truth, it is a good starting point. A good teacher helps a student see where their stiffness lies. The student needs to be shown repeatedly where a joint is stiff. This is because the student neither knows that the stiffness is there nor how to loosen it. Their habit is to move with this stiffness. With practise, the joints become looser, and deeper structural stiffness becomes apparent. As the shoulders loosen, the arms feel heavier. As the hips loosen, the legs work considerably harder. So, for the beginner, heaviness in the arms and the legs working very hard, are good indicators that the skill of fang song is being developed.

Stiffness is difficult to recognise, but the effects of stiffness are easier to see. As the joints stiffen, they rise up. As they are loosened, the body, particularly the hips and shoulders, sinks down. For a beginner it is easy to confuse bending the knees for relaxing the hips (song kua), and lowering the arms for relaxing the shoulders. One of the many reasons why taijiquan is called an oral art is that it requires a teacher who understands to show the way. Most people need to be shown the way repeatedly before they understand it in their mind, and then corrected repeatedly before they understand it in their body. Much practice through this process is required for it to make sense and take hold. Many people get the basic idea in their mind but do not practice enough to realise it in their body.

There is a method or order to progression. The forms of taijiquan are the framework on which the method is hung. Within the forms, each posture offers an opportunity to understand the various levels of loosening the body.

Around each joint is a structure of muscle. For all the joints that rotate, we can initially consider them having a top, bottom, front and back. Each part needs to be trained to loosen before the joint will open properly. As an example, let us look at fang song in the hips. (This process is called song kua – loosen the hips.)  In the hips, usually the stiffness in the top section is most prominent. Once this is loosened then the front becomes more prominent and can be paid attention to. After this, attention can be paid to the back of the hip and then the underneath part. The student needs to be shown where to relax many times until they catch the idea, then practice until the loosening takes place in the body without need of attention. Once this skill is gained in one part, then the mind can be used to address the next area of stiffness. Each student is a little different but the process is the same.

As each part of a joint is loosened, other parts of the body assume the workload of holding the body. In the beginning, this is mostly felt in the legs. Loosening the hips a little brings a significant additional workload onto the thighs. Until the legs become used to doing this extra work, no more loosening of the hips can be learnt. Loosening the hips a little makes the legs work much harder. Practicing with this extra work in the legs makes them stronger. When they have been strengthened in this way and are used to this extra work, then more loosening can take place. There is a saying, to gain taiji gong fu, go to bed with tired legs and wake up with tired legs. In other words, loosen the hips so the legs work so hard that even in the morning they are still tired.

Once the joints are loosened, they will be free to rotate properly and to transmit rotation to and from other parts of the body. This is a fundamental requirement of taijiquan. Any impediment to the joints rotating freely will result in a diminishing of taijiquan skill. The more joints that are unable to rotate freely, or the greater the resistance within each joint, the less taijiquan skill will be apparent. The more joints that are able to rotate freely, or the lesser the resistance within each joint, the greater the taijiquan skill will be apparent.  This is why loosening the body is the first, most basic skill in taijiquan.

The second article will focus on helping beginners grasp the ideas of peng jing and ding jing.


Click here for the second article: 5 Most Important Beginner’s Skills:-2

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Wang Hai Jun is three times All China National Taijiquan Champion in forms, weapons and push hand. He is also the trainer of five other All China National Taijiquan Champions. His proven skills and understanding of taijiquan and his proven expertise as a teacher of the finest skills make his a voice worth listening to closely. He lives in Manchester and teaches in the UK throughout the year in London and Manchester. See www.wanghaijun.com for more information.

Top 10 Common Tai Chi Errors

Top 10 Common Tai Chi Errors

 

When learning tai chi much time can be saved by having a clear sense of what is wrong, where the errors are, and taking the time to understand how best to correct them. It is, unfortunately, very common to see even long-term practitioners repeating the same mistakes over and over again. By trying to train with a real sense of objectivity and 'listening' energy you will be better placed to notice when things aren't as they should be.

Here is a list of what we believe to be some of the most common errors. We would, of course, welcome the views of others on this matter.

1. Stance - Try to ensure your feet are shoulder-distance apart, narrow stances mean you have to compensate in other areas to maintain good balance.

2. Over-reaching - Try to resist the temptation to push out with your arms and upper body, consider moving in from the lower body rather than stretching out from the upper body.

3. Tension - Consider that the arms and hands are there for 'listening' and that by maintaining softness and relaxation the sensory aspects are hightened.

4. Posture - Think about keeping a straight line along the spine.

5. Weight Transferrence - Try to really experience every aspect of transferring your weight from one foot to the other by keeping a low centre of gravity when moving.

6. Upper Body Focus - Often when beginners are at the early learning stage they focus on the arms and upper body and, as such, their energy is focused in this area. Try to consider lightness in the upper body and a deep connection with the ground.

7. Direction - Take the time to familiarise yourself with the orientation of the various postures in your form. Being a little bit off in one move can gradually lead the practitoner to lose direction.

8. Lack of Focus - Once you are clear on the direction of the movements familiarise yourself with the purpose of each posture. This will lead you to having a greater focus during your practice.

9. Disconnection - The whole body should move as one unit, usually from the waist and/or pelvic area. Try to notice if your arms and hands are still moving after your your weight transferrence has stopped.

10. Continuity - Notice if you have a tendency to stop or slow down a little more at some movements, generally the form should be executed in a smooth, harmonious manner.

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We welcome your views on what you feel to be common errors. Drop us an email or go to the contact link.

3 T'ai Chi Fundamentals

GAIAM life

3 T'ai Chi Fundamentals

What you need to succeed at t'ai chi

:: by

E.C. LaMeaux

 
 
 
 

Interested in learning about t'ai chi, which originated in China as a martial art? According to the American Tai Chi and Qigong Association, t'ai chi is sometimes called moving meditation because the person practicing t'ai chi moves his body in a slow and relaxed manner while meditating and breathing deeply. The Association adds that t'ai chi positively affects the flow of qi, pronounced “chee,” a vital energy. According to the American Tai Chi and Qigong Association, the three fundamentals of t'ai chi are movement, meditation and deep breathing. Learn about tai chi, including its fundamentals and key movements, as well as tai chi steps.

Movement

One t'ai chi fundamental is movement. In t'ai chi, each movement flows gracefully into the next, creating forms or routines, according to the American Tai Chi and Qigong Association. Proper alignment is key to t'ai chi movement. Correctly aligning the body cultivates steadiness and balance.

According to the Association, some movements resemble the motions of birds or other wildlife and were subsequently named after those animals. The number of movements involved in texercises, or sets, can vary. The Tai Chi and Chi Kung Institute teaches its beginning students the Yang Tai Chi in 24 Forms, or Beijing 24. However, the American Tai Chi and Qigong Association says that basic forms incorporate 13 movements into the routine, and more difficult forms can involve many more movements.

Meditation

Another fundamental, according to the Association, is meditation. The slow, deliberate motions of t'ai chi are conducive to meditation, allowing those who practice t'ai chi to remain fully alert and focused on the movements. The Tai Chi and Chi Kung Institute indicates that concentrating on your breathing and completely engaging in the movements helps clear your mind and increase relaxation.

Deep breathing

The third fundamental of t'ai chi is deep breathing. The Association reports that breathing is especially important because it promotes relaxation by increasing the flow of oxygen and nourishment to the whole body and stretching the core muscles. The Tai Chi and Chi Kung Institute states that deep breathing is often performed in sync with your body's movements, further enhancing the meditative aspect of the art.

Get step-by-step instructions

Numerous resources offer step-by-step t'ai chi instructions. One example is the bookStep-by-Step Tai Chi by Master Lam Kam Chuen. Reading about it is one thing, but you can also watch and see it to learn. Some instructions can be found online, while more in-depth instructions and demonstrations are available on DVDs. A great t'ai chi DVD for beginners is Gaiam's T'ai Chi Beginning Practice which allows you to learn movement, breathing and meditation fundamentals in the comfort of your own home.

Learn about the benefits of t'ai chi

WebMD lists the following benefits of t'ai chi: reduction of pain and stiffness, improved strength, coordination, flexibility, better sleep, improved balance, increased calmness and positive outlook on life. It's clear that practicing the fundamentals of t'ai chi can improve your health and well-being.

All about the Root Chakra. Healing the Root Chakra with Reiki

Reiki Rays

All about the Root Chakra. Healing the Root Chakra with Reiki

November 14, 201

Every thing around us contains energy which can be absorbed by energy fields within us through centers of energy called chakras. These chakras are connected to all the vital organs and glands in the body. The word is derived from the Sanskrit word meaning ‘wheel’.

There are seven main chakras, from top to bottom: the root chakra, the sacral chakra, the solar plexus chakra, the heart chakra, the throat chakra, the brow chakra, and the crown chakra.

The root chakra is located at the bottom of the spine. It is the primary chakra of our body which acts as an energy pathway to connect us to our physical bodies and the earth. The root chakra allows us to keep our balance and is associated with the color red which represents passion, strength and fire. It is also called the base chakra.

The Seven Main Chakras

Functions of the Root Chakra

Physical health

Physically, it is responsible for the proper functioning of the legs, feet, bladder, kidney and of course, spine. The position of each chakra is in correspondence to our endocrine glands that are responsible for the release of hormones in our body, keeping them in balance and controlling major nerve functions. It keeps us nourished and healthy.

An imbalanced root chakra can cause several problems such as fatigue, hemorrhoids, arthritis, constipation, lower back pain, weight issues and diarrhea. It can also cause sleep disorders and feeling cold due to poor circulation.

Increased confidence

When the root chakra is balanced, you feel more secure and gain more confidence. You will perform all tasks in life with increased confidence and enthusiasm.

When it is imbalanced you will feel tired, overly cautious and afraid of change. You will feel insecure and you will trust yourself and others less. You will not respect yourself and others and you will be frequently clumsy and lethargic.

Dealing with conflicts and problems

When balanced, the root chakra will give you the ability to deal with problems and handle conflicts with a calm and constructive mind. You will manage these conflicts smoothly and troublesome matters will be incapable of scaring you.
When the chakra is blocked you feel overly cautious. Also it will cause insecurity and violent behavior, aggressiveness. You’ll be angry at everything and and prone to do reckless things.

Feeling grounded

This chakra is related to the basic needs in life such as food, shelter, warmth and comfort. If balanced, it will keep you on track to get these needs met.

However, if the balance is lost, any task seems difficult. Money problems arise, you lose confidence, resort to violence, become selfish and cannot find happiness. You get “stiff”, uptight. You turn greedy and materialistic. You become more sexually manipulative, impulsive and also domineering.

Ways to Heal the Root Chakra

If you feel that your root chakra is blocked, or overwhelmed with negative energy, the following ways can help you clear the root chakra.

Think red

The root chakra is related to the color red so envisioning  a red flame glowing brightly at the base of your spine can help clear the root chakra. You can start with a meditation visualizing the red flame at the base of your tailbone and picture the light extending down to your legs and feet and grounding you to the earth.

The Root Chakra Symbol

Sing  and dance

Dancing and singing with the door closed and without a care in the world can help you express your freedom and hence clear your root chakra. Singing also helps clear the throat chakra.

Take a bath or shower

Express your love for yourself fully by cleansing and purifying your body with a nice hot bath. This is an excellent way to clear your root chakra.

Go for a walk

Going for a walk with your mind into each and every step you make while grounding with the earth will also help clear the root chakra.

Hug a tree

And of course, you can hug a tree to get grounded :).

Reiki and the Root Chakra

Reiki is an excellent healing technique for the chakras that are imbalanced, dysfunctional or even blocked due to problems of the body, mind and spirit. Keeping your chakras balanced and functioning will prevent problems and illnesses. Reiki involves hand placements targeting all major chakras to remove all negative energies and blockages that stand in the way of your normal energy flow like a rock in a stream. After these negative forms of energies are removed, your stream of energy is recovered and flows smoothly through your body. It is a natural and safe method of curing that can be used by anyone.

During healing hands are placed on the affected areas that need to be cured. Reiki has been known to be one of the most effective methods of curing the root chakra. Even though the root chakras is at the base of the spine, hands are placed at somewhere near the location of the spine.

Gemstones can also be used for healing. As the root chakra is concerned with the color red, rubies, garnets and red jasper can be used to clear the root chakra.

Steps for performing Reiki healing on the Root Chakra

Reiki practitioners might have their own technique for balancing the root chakra, below is just one of the methods that many find effective.

1. Lie down and relax. Make sure you are comfortable and do not cross your arms and legs.
2. Place both of your hands with your palms down on your lower abdomen.
3. Visualize a river of energy passing down from the palm of your hands turning into a fast turning bright red ball. Direct your thoughts towards this energy ball and the energy that is being sent.
4. You might feel some warmth spreading through your body as the chakra gets cleared.

Healing of the Root Chakra with Reiki brings back all the comforts in our life; it brings calm and tranquility, and leads a healthy and happy life.

All about the Sacral Chakra: Healing the Sacral Chakra with Reiki

Reiki Rays

All about the Sacral Chakra: Healing the Sacral Chakra with Reiki

November 16, 2012

A few days ago we published an article about the root chakra. This article continues the series.

The sacral chakra or Swadhisthana is the second chakra.

It deals with feelings of sexuality that allow expression of emotions when the chakra is open without being overly emotional or overactive. Emotions are kept in balance and you become more passionate and lively. When the sacral chakra is balanced, you will have no issues dealing with sexuality.

The sacral chakra is situated in the lower abdomen about 1-2 inches below the navel. It controls your sexual organs and reproductive system including ovaries or testes. It also controls the bladder and the kidneys.

Functions of the Sacral Chakra

Physical health

While this chakra is responsible for the proper functioning of the reproductive system, its organs and hormones, the energy of the sacral chakra is also responsible for the administration of the lymphatic and circulatory system and the urinary trac. As the sacral chakra mainly deals with purification, the chakra plays a role in removing toxins out of the the body. Some say that the sacral chakra is represented by the spleen in men and uterus in women.

The Seven Main Chakras

An imbalance in the sacral chakra can cause many physical issues such as urinary problems, kidney stones, lower back pain, gynecological problem and prostate problems. It is therefore important to keep this chakra in balance to maintain a healthy physical health and stay away from such problems.

Emotions

The sacral chakra being the ‘seat of emotions’ it’s mainly responsible for producing joy, ambition, love for yourself, healthy relationships and creativity. When this chakra is in balance, you are more comfortable with expressing your emotions and you do not get suppressed by other people’s power. However, if this chakra is blocked or dysfunctional then you will become shy, helpless, and weak.

Since the sacral chakra governs the reproductive system, it also deals with the stimulation of the production of various sexual hormones or hormones that develop pleasure, joy and other emotions.

Basically, your chakra is in balance when you sexual energy and sex drive, and are comfortable with having a sexual relationship with someone and you feel no negative emotions while having sex. You can express your power easily and sex is done for a fair exchange and it’s not weighted on one side only.  You have a blocked sacral chakra when you do not have any sexual desires and try to avoid having sex as much as possible, hence reducing its importance in your life. You do not feel sexual sensations normally and these sexual sensations are often weak and disappointing.

Also, when this chakra is balanced, there is no neediness, no feeling clingy, and therefore no jealousy.

Honor and power

This chakra is responsible for ‘fair exchange’ or having similar ideas with others. When this chakra is balanced, you naturally give and receive love, affection, flirt playfully with no guilt or shame, in a beautiful and natural “dance”. People with a balanced sacral chakra are not afraid of expanding their boundaries, communicating their needs, and are comfortable listening and attending to others’ needs.

You can cause harm to the sacral chakra when you engage in means of taking revenge, expressing too much power and pressure and suppressing someone with your sexual desires.

Healing the Sacral Chakra with Reiki

Reiki practitioners might have their own technique for balancing the sacral chakra, below is just one of the methods that many find effective.

The Sacral Chakra Symbol

1. The Reiki practitioner will place their hands by the patient’s sacrum. Some practitioners unblock the chakra by rotating to the right for females and for males, they rotate to the left – but it’s better to do what feels right for you, or if you’re not certain, just send energy to the area, it will do the right thing :). This can be done on the front or the back of the person. This not only unblocks the area, but is also known to help with reproductive problems and prostate problems.
2. Some practitioners will associate the blockage with mantras. The first is often the ‘vam’ sound. Others prefer aroma therapy to clear this chakra such as the usage of sandalwood or ylang ylang oil. Gemstones can be used as well to purify the chakra such as carnelian and moonstones.
3. When the Reiki healing is finished, you will feel that the aura surrounding this chakra will glow orange in its pure state. Many people often tend to sleep for more than eight hours when the chakra is cleared in a fetal position. You may also envision moonlight and clear water after or sometimes even during the process of Reiki.

The chakra opens to universal energies and once it is unblocked you will feel the freedom of expressing your emotions without any discomfort or displeasure. By healing your chakra, you will not only heal your physical self which includes your reproductive system and other organs, you will also have cleared your emotional and sexual blockages.

All about the Solar Plexus Chakra: Healing the Solar Plexus Chakra with Reiki

Reiki Rays

All about the Solar Plexus Chakra: Healing the Solar Plexus Chakra with Reiki

November 17, 2012


We’re continuing the Chakra Series today, with the Solar Plexus Chakra.

According to Hindu tradition, the solar plexus chakra is the third chakra which often deals with raw emotions such as frustration, anger and intuitions. The solar plexus chakra or manipura which means ‘city or jewels’ or also commonly thought of as the diamond, is the center of energy for feelings of sensitivity and power. When the chakra is in balance, you feel confident, zealous, calm, cheerful, and self respectful. It also ensures that you are expressive about your feelings and that you are outgoing, flexible and can handle problems with a calm mind. It is called the solar plexus chakra because of its location being close to the solar nerve plexus.

Functions of the Solar Plexus Chakra

Maintaining physical health

This chakra manages the autonomic nervous system, stomach, gall bladder, large intestine, liver, pancreas. Also the whole digestive system and muscular system are governed by this chakra.

The solar plexus chakra is also responsible for cellular respiration. Every system or organ in the body that can be visualized with fire to fuel them or simply, those that produce energy, cause purification and those that function or create movements utilizing this energy are all administered by this chakra. Even the eyes are governed by the solar plexus chakra.

Issues with the digestive system, arthritis, diabetes and hypoglycemia are some diseases and physical problems connected to the imbalance of this chakra.

The Seven Main Chakras

Emotions

Fiery emotions or raw emotions are controlled by this chakra. Thus these emotions include anger, zeal, courage, confidence and frustration. Also warm feelings such as joy, cheerfulness, and spontaneity are controlled by manipura. Gut feelings or intuitions are also connected to this chakra.

Depression, frustration, isolation, doubt, lethargy or anger are signs of imbalance in this chakra. Removing the negative energies that block the chakra goes a long way in helping it heal.

Balance

The solar plexus chakra requires everything to be well organized and set up properly as it does not work well with disorder or chaos. It also requires all the aspects of a given situation to be considered without condoning.

Inability to deal with chaos is related to this chakra’s imbalance – as it cannot restore order.

Resolving conflicts

Peacefully resolving a conflict comes under this chakra’s domain. It is the capability of bringing two groups to a solution without hurting anyone and leaving everybody satisfied.

Actions and willpower

The most important function of this chakra is to exhibit feelings of courage, motivation, strength and happiness. The prana or inner battery of the body when fully charged releases energy to boost such emotions enhancing the level of confidence and courage to fulfill one’s dreams. Manipura is the key to which one can make decisions, the right actions and face whatever life has in store.

Inability to work hard, procrastination, apathy, being dominated by personal habits and being controlled by others are some factors related to imbalances of this chakra.

Self respect

A balanced solar plexus chakra gives you a feeling that you are as important as any other in your society. Thus allowing you to create or negotiate boundaries for yourself and stand upright to those boundaries without changing them. You will be able to judge what is good and what is bad for yourself and avoid actions that have negative consequences. You feel independent.

An imbalanced manipura will make you easily controlled by others; you’ll lose self respect, do what others want you to but uncomfortable with it and constantly worrying about what others think.

Clearing your solar plexus chakra

The following are ways to clear your solar plexus chakra:

• Spend some time in the sun
• Exercise and indulge in various sport activities
• Finish off tasks that you have left incomplete. Clean out a messy room, for example
• Put some effort in dressing up and grooming yourself. Look good and feel good
• Set a goal and achieve it. You can break the task into doable chunks and make sure you take some breaks. You will feel good after you complete the task
• Be more assertive. Make decisions and stick to them
• Use scents such as rosemary or lavender
• Decorate your room and turn it yellow so that it gives you energy and spirit
• Remember that you are strong and worthy of all your desires. Stand up for yourself and accept challenges

 

Reiki Healing for the Solar Plexus Chakra

Reiki practitioners might have their own technique for balancing the solar plexus chakra, below is just one of the methods that many find effective.

The Solar Plexus Chakra Symbol

1. Place your hands above the navel to trigger the energy center, and start sending Reiki energy
2. Some practitioners recommend that for females, rotate to the left and males, rotate to the right – but others disagree. Try both ways and see what feels right for you.
3. Mantras can also be used which in this case is the tone of E for the mantra ‘ram’. The vibrations caused during the delivery of this mantra will cause the negative energies to flow out of the chakra.
4. Aromatherapy can also be used with lavender, rosemary and bergamot to unblock the chakra
5. If you’re into gemstones, use as amber, yellow topaz, tiger’s eye, and citrine

While going through the healing process, you may see visions of sunlight and sunflower :).

All about the Heart Chakra: Healing the Heart Chakra with Reiki

All about the Heart Chakra: Healing the Heart Chakra with Reiki

 

November 20, 2012 2 comments

This is the next article in the Chakra series, and it’s all about the Heart Chakra.
The heart chakra, or Anahata, is the fourth of the seven main chakras. It is the center of unconditional love.

It is responsible for the administration of:
* the circulatory system, including the heart
* the respiratory system
* the arms and hands
* shoulders
* ribs and breasts
* diaphragm
* thymus gland

Many emotions, such as love, hatred, grief, joy, jealousy, fear of betrayal, feelings of isolation and loneliness and the ability to make ourselves feel better are all centered in the heart chakra.

Functions of the Heart Chakra

Physical health

The heart chakra governs the lungs, heart, blood circulation – it controls the essential life forces that are vital for the human life. The heart chakra is also associated with the thymus gland which plays a role in producing T-cells that are essential for a healthy immune system.

The Seven Main Chakras

When the heart chakra is blocked, you will face health issues such as lung or breathing difficulties, high blood pressure, lung diseases, breast cancer, etc.

Love and other emotions

In order to maintain a healthy heart chakra, you must learn to love yourself and others around you. Do not complain about things around you and what you do not have. Instead, enjoy and appreciate the things that you already have. Life is a wonderful thing.

Remember the Reiki percept that says “I’m grateful for my many blessings.”
Situations which might cause emotional distress such as divorce, separation, isolation, abandonment, grief caused due to death, or emotional abuse can seriously damages the heart chakra. If the heart chakra loses balance one becomes prone to many illnesses and may also suffer from emotional conditions. Unfavorable outcomes to such situations include feeling lonely, betrayed, being defensive, controlling, paranoid and possessive.

Healing the Heart Chakra

Here are some things which help in healing and balancing the heart chakra.

Green

The heart chakra is associated with the color green. Enjoy and appreciate nature, and don’t harm it.

The Heart Chakra Symbol

Visualize a strong green flame or light engulfing your heart towards its center. While inhaling imagine a soft green light filling up your heart and your body. Visualize that you are removing negative energy out of your body while exhaling. Do not put too much effort while exhaling, stay focused on inhaling.

Yoga

In order to maintain a balanced heart chakra, it is always a good idea to practice yoga. If your heart chakra is blocked, it’s likely that your throat chakra is blocked too. The camel pose works well for both chakras to balance them up. To execute the camel chakra focus on extending your lower back while concentrating on stretching and opening your upper back. Your yoga teacher can give you more information and guidance.

Forgive and forget

Some say that the best solution to maintain a balanced heart chakra is to forgive yourself and others. It is always best to let go of the past and focus on the present moment and the many things you can be grateful for right now, also looking forward just a bit, to a better future. If you keep rewinding in your mind past situations that trouble you, you will continue feeling frustrated, angry, lonely or betrayed. Counseling, or even talking to a friend, might help.
Also, the Sedona Method is a very efficient way to learn to let go.

Exercise

Exercise is good for a healthy heart. If you think vigorous exercising routines are too difficult for you or if you feel that you do not have time for exercise then it will help to set up small goals like taking the stairs or walking to the market nearby instead of taking a ride.

Essential oils

Rose oil is an excellent heart healer and is commonly used to fight against depression. Using rose oil can develop positive thoughts and can fill you up with spirit. You will be more optimistic and happy.

Clary sage is also good at combating depression. It is also a nerve tonic and is extremely relaxing to have an aromatherapy with Clary sage.

Reiki and the Heart Chakra

Reiki is one of the most effective ways of healing and balancing the heart chakra. Reiki practitioners might have their own technique for balancing the heart chakra, below is one of the methods that many find effective.

1. Relax comfortably
2. Place your hands lightly on your chest in the heart area
3. Welcome the flow of energy into your heart, and be open to healing, for the highest good
4. Let your intuition guide you and use the symbols to fine-tune the energy flow
5. Visualize green or pink light

The mantra ‘yam’ can be used to assist. Gemstones can also be used. Gemstones such as emerald, Kunzite, green jade, rose quartz and pink tourmaline can be used to help clear the heart chakra. These gemstones can be placed at the heart while performing Reiki and can used for longer periods of time. If you’re into aromatherapy, use Rose essence.

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All about the Brow Chakra (Third Eye): Healing the Brow Chakra with Reiki

 

November 24, 2012 

Situated between the eyes, the brow or third eye chakra deals with intelligence and psychic power according to Hindu tradition.

It is the seat of psychic vision and has been known as Ajna by Hindu practitioners for thousands of years.

Physically, it is located between the two eyebrows and is often symbolized by the symbol for the syllable OM with a petal on both sides each. The associated colors are indigo, deep blue, and sometimes violet.

Hormones are responsible for the body’s functions. They are associated with many aspects of our body which includes physical aspects and mental or emotional aspects as well. Modern day practitioners like to relate chakras with the endocrine system of the body which is responsible for the release of hormones that regulate many functions including growth and maturation, metabolism, tissue function and also mood.

Functions of the Brow (Third Eye) Chakra

 

Physical Health

The third eye chakra governs the pineal gland, nose, eyes, ears and also the skeletal system. It is related to the senses of sight and hearing, and to your ability to perceive and form your own opinions about what you see and how you live.

The Seven Main Chakras

This chakra plays an important role in making you see things clearly, not only physically, but also morally, and even intuitively.

Formation of dreams

The pineal gland’s main function is to secrete a hormone called melatonin which plays a role in regulating your sleep cycle, regulating growth, slowing down aging and also maintaining a stable mind. The pineal gland is light-sensitive, therefore scientists have determined that the eyes stimulate the pineal gland into releasing melatonin. Many scientists have also revealed that the earth’s electromagnetic field is responsible for stimulating the gland.

Vision

As it governs your eyes, the function of physical vision and is related to this chakra, as well as psychic and intuitive abilities.

Mental and spiritual health

The third eye chakra plays a role in governing alertness, as well as your ability to see things clearly and predict things, to be optimistic and visualize outcomes that you desire. This chakra is responsible for creating your realities and being able to form perceptions about reality. When this chakra is in balance, you will be able to visualize easily and your memory and ability to reason become sharp. You will trust yourself and be able to form and rely on your intuitions. You will instantly come to help someone without their request for help.

An imbalance in this chakra however, can cause you trouble in understanding reality and creating your own reality. You may rely too much on fate or luck and blame them if something wrong happens. Headaches / migraines will cause you trouble, and there will be a constant feeling of anxiousness. You will worry about social behaviors and you may also want to dominate or control others as well. All of these are signs of a blocked third eye chakra.

How to Clear Your Third Eye Chakra

In order to unblock this chakra, practice tolerance and love. Appreciate yourself for all the things that you do and practice self-love. Trying to focus your mind into thinking how much life has to offer and how good it is to you can help you get rid of many psychological and physical problems.

The Brow (Third Eye) Chakra Symbol

Meditating near large bodies of water such as an ocean or a lake can help you enhance your intuition and develop your third eye chakra. Indigo blue is associated with this chakra so visualize large pools of water if it is too difficult for you to physically get to a body of water. You can also look at the sky at night.
Help yourself with your own perception and expand your level of understanding. Allow others to understand your true nature.

Using Reiki to unblock the brow chakra

As always, Reiki practitioners each have their own way of working with this chakra. The following are the steps of the Reiki process in order to clear your throat chakra that some Reiki Masters recommend:

1. Relax comfortably
2. Enable the flow of Reiki
3. Place your hands above your eyes and forehead.
4. Move in a circular motion. Some recommend clockwise circulation for females and anticlockwise for males – but let your intuition guide you and see what works best for you.

Several other methods can be used as well. For mantra healing, Ksham is effective. The vibration developed by this sound will open up energies in your chakra.

Aromatherapy can also be used with aromas of mint and jasmine to clear the chakra.

For gemstone healing, indigo sapphire and azurite, as well as other indigo stones, can be used.

All about the Crown Chakra: Healing the Crown Chakra with Reiki

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All about the Crown Chakra: Healing the Crown Chakra with Reiki

November 25, 2012 7 comments

The crown chakra or Sahasrara is the last of the seven main chakras and is represented by the color violet or white. It is mainly related to God, spirituality, faith and religion and is the connection to the divine soul. The negative feelings that arise about god, faith, religion, universal source and fears about trusting your intuition revolves around the blockage of this chakra.

The crown chakra is situated at the top of the head and moves upwards and outwards past the structure of your body. The crown chakra is the point where the physical body and the soul


It is symbolized by, and often also called, the lotus with one thousand petals.
The crown chakra governs the part of the consciousness which is concerned with opinions of unity and separation. It represents the connection with God and the spirit.

Functions of the Crown Chakra

Physical health

The crown chakra governs many organs, glands and systems of the body such as the brain, the nervous system, and the pituitary gland.

The Seven Main Chakras

An imbalance in the crown chakra may result in problems such as migraines, coma, stroke, brain tumors, amnesia and cognitive delusions. Also illnesses related to stress, anxiety, hysteria and depression may result due to a blocked crown chakra.

Spirituality

The crown chakra directs the energy of a certain part of yourself which is commonly called the Higher Self and embraces you within its protective light making you feel secure and healthy. You will be open to accepting love and wisdom from your higher self and you will be filled with the energy of the divine spirit. The spirit will guide you and inspire you with all the things you should do. A balanced crown chakra will keep you spiritually connected with the spirit.

An imbalance in your crown chakra can cause many problems such as spiritual cynicism and rigid belief system.

Intelligence

The crown chakra increases your ability to form perceptions, analyze and absorb information into your system. You become more intelligent and aware. A balanced crown chakra allows you to be open minded, able to question and gives you a broad understanding of everything including the spirit.

An imbalanced crown chakra can cause learning difficulties and apathy. Also withheld information, education that does not encourage curiosity, invalidation of your belief, forced religiosity and blind obedience are all related to a blocked crown chakra.

Personality building

 

A balanced crown chakra causes the highest level of responsibility, empowerment and vitality in people. The possibilities expand to infinity and you become more joyous with the bliss of your own spirit. You become one with the source which makes you complete.

Imbalance in the chakra causes you to become materialistic, greedy, selfish and domineering.

How to Heal and Balance the Crown Chakra

The following are a few ways you can clear your crown chakra.

Meditate

As meditation connects you to your higher self and higher power, it is very effective at clearing your crown chakra. While meditating, envision a bright golden light illuminating the entire crown of your head. This soft light reconnects you with the world around you, yourself and the spirit.

The Crown Chakra Symbol

Do not be egotistic

Self confidence and egotism are two different things. Self confidence comes from acceptance of knowledge however, egotism is often triggered by insecurity. Learning to let go of your ego can help clear your crown chakra.

Choose love

Love yourself and others around you. If you choose to love yourself for your deeds, you will not only open your crown chakra, you will open your other chakras as well.

Pray

It does not have to be formal or foreign. Just let your inner self speak up in a form of a prayer like in your yoga practice.

Using Reiki to Unblock the Crown Chakra

While healing the crown chakra, a Reiki practitioner will relate it to the color violet or white. As with any chakra, Reiki practitioners each have their own way of working with this chakra. Below is just one method.

1. Relax comfortably
2. Draw the Power Symbol
3. Intend for the crown chakra to expand, for the highest good
4. Draw the Emotional Symbol
5. Relax and feel the tranquility
6. Follow your intuition on what symbols to use next, if any – or just continue to relax, envisioning your crown chakra opening up and expanding

If you use mantra healing, you will use the mantra of ‘ohm’ to clear your crown chakra. This allows the mind to relax which then allows the mind to get awaken.
Gemstones can also be used for healing. Amethyst and rock crystal work well for awakening the crown chakra.

Aromatherapy is also good for chakra healing and aromas of lotus and olihanum are used for clearing the crown chakra.

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Chakra Cheat Sheet

February 26, 2014 

There’s a lot to be said about chakras, and we’ve published quite a bit of information on this topic here on Reiki Rays.

To keep things as simple as possible, we created this “cheat sheet”, which contains the most important information about each chakra.

It should also allow you to “self-diagnose” your chakras, and see which one needs healing.







To download this as a PDF chart, right click here and choose Save Link As… (depending on your browser, it might be called Save target as…, Save as…, or something similar).

License: You may print an unlimited number of copies of the Chakra Cheat Sheet PDF document. You may use the document in a commercial setting, and you may distribute the document, as long as it remains intact and this license notice is included. You may not modify the document in any way.

All about the Throat Chakra: Healing the Throat Chakra with Reiki

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All about the Throat Chakra: Healing the Throat Chakra with Reiki

November 22, 2012 5 comments

 

This is the fifth article in the Chakras Series. It is about the fifh chakra – the sky blue chakra centered in our throat.

Vishuddha

According to Hindu tradition, the throat chakra also known as Vishuddha meaning purification, is the fifth primary chakra out of all seven chakras in the human body.

The throat chakra is situated in the neck region near the spine with its superficial activation point in the depression of the throat.

It is related to the ears and mouth due to its association with hearing and speaking respectively.

Functions of the Throat Chakra

The functions of the throat chakra do not only offer physical benefits, they offer mental and psychological benefits too. The following are the functions and benefits of the throat chakra.

Physical health

Physically, this chakra is associated with the thyroid gland and the human endocrine system which is responsible for the release of hormones. The thyroid gland plays a role in releasing hormones that are important for growth and development. Also it regulates the body’s metabolic system, and is responsible for the proper functioning of the larynx, trachea, ears, nose, teeth, mouth, throat and the carotid arteries.

The Seven Main Chakras

When the throat chakra is blocked, you may suffer from many diseases and physical defects such as laryngitis, chronic throat defects, hypothyroidism, autoimmune thyroiditis, lack of motivation, fatigue, hoarse voice, cold sores, jaw pains, gum defects, headaches and obstruction in speech. Also you may resort to lying, gossiping and you will not be able to hear or deliver speech properly.

Effective communication

The throat chakra is connected to self-expression, creativity, writing, listening to words and music, smell and taste. When this chakra is balanced, we speak and listen to people and what they have to say. After listening, we constructively respond with words and emotions.

Communication is harmed when the chakra is blocked. In this case, some people overindulge in eating and drinking in order to keep the throat busy and thus avoid communication. Self esteem is also hurt, and dominant feelings might be those of anger and aggression, hate and bitterness.

Dream state

The throat chakra is also associated with the subconscious state of mind or the dream state. The chakra gains access to your dream state and allows you to see dreams clearly.

Psychic hearing abilities

When the chakra is in balanced and its energy is enhanced, the chakra improves your psychic abilities related to hearing called clairaudience.

Spiritual lessons

When balanced, the throat chakra allows you to take responsibility for your actions, to be strong, courageous, and self confident.

An imbalance in this chakra can make you feel that the world around you is hostile and you will expect aggression and violence from others. You will feel humiliated instead of feeling loved and nourished.

How to Unblock Your Throat Chakra

Often when you’re dealing with a lot of issues and keep them inside, but also when you’re having some good feelings and keeping them inside – your throat feels stuck until the issue is cleared completely. You must remember, whether it is something negative or creative, you must be able to get it out of your body properly so that your throat chakra can get purified.

Bring it up and let it go

Letting go is an effective way to clear issues. Simply acknowledge that there is an issue. Do not resist it. Just let the issue be. Allow yourself to feel the issue. And then, just let the issue go. Let it go.

Cry

It might sound odd, but crying is a form of purification that can unblock your throat chakra.  Often you feel a ‘lump’ in your throat and it might even cause you some pain, it is an indication that your throat chakra is blocked and you have to cry to clear it. Next time when you are sad, cry it all out. You will surely feel much better.

Sing

Singing is very effective at cleaning your throat chakra so always sing your favorite song if you feel that it is blocked. Amazing Grace is a great song.

Drink some water

Drinking some water can make your throat feel better.

The Throat Chakra Symbol

 

Get creative

When you create something your work always reflects your intentions and thoughts so when you create, you communicate. Painting is a very good example of being creative.

Get a massage

If you get a good neck and shoulder massage your throat chakra will surely open up.

Reiki and the Throat Chakra

As always, Reiki practitioners each have their own way of working with this chakra. The following are the steps of the Reiki process in order to clear your throat chakra that some Reiki Masters recommend:

1. Relax comfortably and enable the flow of Reiki
2. Place your hands on your collarbone and throat.
3. Some practitioners say that for males, the energy is cleared by rotating left and for the females, rotating right. If in doubt, let your intuition guide you. Do what feels right for you.
4. Visualize the blue sky and clear, blue water.

The mantra ‘ham’ can be used to assist in clearing the throat chakra. It creates a vibration to alter the energy flow in the communication center.

Some people prefer gemstones to clear their chakras. The throat chakra is associated with the color blue therefore, gemstones such as aquamarine, chalcedony or turquoise can be used.

Aromatherapy can also be used where sage and eucalyptus are best to clear the blockages in the this chakra.

Once the throat chakra is balanced, you will be able to express your emotions with words at ease and you will communicate better.