The Subtle system

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The Chakras

Inside every human being there is a network of nerves and sensory organs that interprets the outside physical world. At the same time, within us resides a Subtle System of channels (‘Nadis’, see A  to C on diagram) and centres of energy (‘Chakras’, see 1 to 7 on diagram) which look after our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual being.

 

Qualities

Each of the seven chakras has several qualities. These qualities are intact within us, and even though they might not always be manifest, they can never be destroyed.  When the Kundalini mothering energy is awakened, these qualities start manifesting spontaneously and express themselves in our life.

Through regular meditation, we strengthen and nourish the chakras and the subtle system.

 

Glossary of Terms

While exploring our website or listening to the various talks,  you will come across several terms that may be new to you. This is an overview of the most commonly used terms…

Kundalini
The mothering energy that is lying dormant at the base of the spine in the sacrum bone.
This energy is awakened by Self-Realisation to connect us to the Divine and begin its work of cleansing and balancing our energy centres.

Attention
The attention is a very important faculty within us. It is often damaged by over-emphasis on the intellectual side of our nature. So the attention itself must be cleansed, steadied and healed. This is a natural process performed by Kundalini.

Chakras
These are subtle energy centres that are located at the sites of the main nervous plexuses. A chakra is a wheel (this is the literal Sanskrit meaning) of energy. There are seven main chakras in our subtle system, which relate to the stages of evolution. Once awakened (i.e., after realization) they begin to emit vibrations, expressing the unique qualities of the divine within us. It is in this sense that we are created in the image of God.
Physical, mental and emotional problems can also be traced to an imbalance in one or several chakras.

Catches
A catch occurs when the efficient functioning of the chakra is impaired. This blocks the passage of the Kundalini through that chakra to a higher level. Chakras can become distorted and bruised, and this is the root cause of problems in our lives. Once the Kundalini starts to naturally repair bruised chakras, the problems will disappear. It is very important, however, not to focus attention on catches. Keep your attention on the Kundalini and on the positive aspects of your ascent.

Spirit
This is the reflection of the divine which is present within us. The object of Sahaja Yoga is to fully become Spiritual Self, which is the true Self. By virtue of Kundalini awekening, the Spirit can be perceived and felt in our attention, and we can then live and act in harmony with the divine.

Vibrations
Once Kundalini is awakened, vibrations can be felt on the palms of the hand, in the body and on top of the head. Everything in creation emits vibrations, but the ability to feel them comes only with Kundalini awakening. Anyone or anything emitting cool (not cold) vibrations is balanced and “holy”. Hot, tingling vibrations are emitting when there is an imbalance or lack of harmony with the Spirit.