Yoga and Chakras
Yoga
We have made yoga classes a regular part of the healing process program. On a physical level, yoga helps improve flexibility, strength, balance, and endurance. On an energetic level yoga teaches you how to cope better with stress by cultivating a sense of ease in both active and passive poses. On a psychological level, yoga helps to cultivate mindfulness by shifting your awareness to the sensations, thoughts, and emotions that accompany a given pose or exercise. Yoga is taught on gradual levels. The benefits of these teachings will last you a lifetime, and they will bring about immediate amazing results.
Chakras
We have included chakra cleansing classes in our program because we know from experience that clearing these areas sharpens our guests’ minds and bodies. You will really be amazed.
In Yogic tradition, the human body has seven energy centre’s called chakras. When these energy centres are healthy and open, so are you.
Most people have heard of the seven chakras (Sanskrit for “wheels”) and have perhaps read about their interpretations, which can become complex. A simple and practical way to view the chakras, though, is as meeting points, or interfaces, between mind and body. Every bodily sensation is part of a conversation between the brain and some part of the physiology. At a subtle level, according to the chakra system, these signals aren’t purely physical but relate to meaningful parts of our lives.
Through this simple mind-body connection, the chakras give us ways to balance the whole system. Each of the seven chakras, aligned invisibly up and down the spinal column, stand for an important aspect of being in balance. Starting at the base of the spine and working upward, here’s what the chakras can tell you about yourself, according to the Indian tradition.
First chakra (base of the spine): This is your foundation, or grounding. When in balance, the first chakra gives you a sense of physical security and safety. People who feel well-supported have a strong first chakra.
Second chakra (sacrum): This is your source of pleasure, creativity, and sexual energy. When in balance, the second chakra makes life enjoyable. People who are enthusiastic and can accept pleasure naturally, without excess, addiction, or inhibition, have a strong second chakra.
Third chakra (navel/solar plexus): Commonly called the power chakra, the third chakra converts energy into physical form, beginning with good digestion and hormonal balance. When in balance, this chakra makes you feel empowered and able to bring your intentions to fruition. People who have self-confidence and self-esteem are strong in the third chakra.
Fourth chakra (heart): The subtle or spiritual qualities of love, compassion, and empathy are governed by the fourth chakra. When in balance, this chakra is soothing, comforting, and nourishing. People who are warm-hearted, sympathetic, and loving have a strong fourth chakra.
Fifth chakra (throat): The fifth chakra is about communication and expression. When in balance, this chakra allows you to express yourself with a sense of safety and confidence. People who can speak their truth and think clearly have a strong fifth chakra.
Sixth chakra (forehead): The sixth chakra traditionally sits like a “third eye” that gives inner vision and access to higher or spiritual reality. When in balance, this chakra allows for intuition and insight. People who trust their inner perceptions have a strong sixth chakra, with the added potential for wisdom and a powerful spiritual life.
Seventh chakra (top of head): Commonly called the “crown” chakra, the seventh chakra is the connection to pure consciousness. When in balance, this chakra gives the individual awareness knowledge that it is universal awareness—the lower self (Jiva) is the higher Self (Atman), and both are merged into the One (Brahman). People who experience states of unity consciousness have a strong seventh chakra.