Yoga Practice Name
Anahata (अनाहत)
Description and Steps
| Name and Sanskrit Spelling | The Sanskrit name is अनाहत, transliterated as "Anāhata," and pronounced "uh-naa-ha-ta." |
| Meaning and Symbolism | "Anāhata" means “unstruck” or “unbeaten,” referring to a sound that is heard without two objects striking. It symbolizes the heart space where pure, unconditional love and compassion emerge without force or conflict. It is the center of balance, connection, and healing. |
| Location | Center of the chest, near the heart. |
| Associated Element (Tattva) | Air (Vāyu) |
| Seed (Bija) Mantra | YAM |
| Number of Petals | 12 |
| Color Association | Green (sometimes pink) |
| Associated Gland/Organ/System | Heart, lungs, thymus gland, and circulatory system. |
| Psychological/Emotional Themes | Love, compassion, forgiveness, acceptance, empathy, and emotional balance. It governs our ability to form meaningful connections, offer kindness, and live from the heart. It is the bridge between the lower (earthly) and upper (spiritual) chakras. |
| Signs of Imbalance (Deficiency or Excess) | Deficiency: Isolation, fear of intimacy, bitterness, judgment. Excess: Codependency, jealousy, possessiveness, people-pleasing. Physical issues may include heart or lung problems, immune imbalance, or poor circulation. |
| Balancing and Activation Techniques | Heart-opening yoga poses such as Ustrasana, Bhujangasana, and Setu Bandhasana; breathing practices that expand the chest; chanting the mantra YAM; practicing loving-kindness meditation; engaging in forgiveness and gratitude journaling; and cultivating empathy through compassionate actions. |
| Symbol and Deity (optional) | Represented by a twelve-petaled green lotus. The deity associated is Isha (a form of Shiva), and the animal symbol is the antelope, symbolizing lightness and sensitivity. |
| Reflective Prompts / Inner Inquiry | “Do I give and receive love freely?” “Where am I withholding compassion—from others or from myself?” “How can I connect with others in an open and authentic way?” |
| Real-Life Examples or Modern Context | An imbalanced Anāhata chakra may result in difficulty trusting others, fear of vulnerability, or an overly self-sacrificing attitude. A balanced heart chakra fosters self-love, healthy boundaries, harmonious relationships, and emotional healing. It encourages living with authenticity and compassion in both personal and professional settings. |
Practice Level
Gallery
