Ajna Chakra

The sixth chakra, called Ajna which means "center of command" is located between the eyebrows and rules over the sense organs,  nervous system and sense of self. Imbalance here can manifest as migraines, dizziness, confusion, and vision problems. When balanced wfocused mind, keen intuition, vivid imagination, clear self-purpose, and psychic awareness.

Location: Forehead
Color: Indigo
Element: Space
Body Systems: Nervous, senses
Parts Affected: Eyes, brain
When Excessive: Overly intellectual
When Blocked: Lack of vision and insight
When Balanced: Innate wisdom
Mudra: Jnana Mudra (see also Mudras for Meditation)
Bija Mantra: Aum
Gemstone:Lapis Lazuli  

---

Jnana Mudra
Touch the tips of thumb and index fingers together, extend middle, ring and little fingers; rest backs of hands on thighs.
Benefits: Helps with concentration and meditation, helps to calm circular thoughts
Practice Tips: Use when suffering from "monkey mind" 

---

---

Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward Facing Dog)
Begin on all fours with hands slightly forward of shoulders. Turn toes under and lift knees off floor. Keep shoulders wide and palms flat, press thighs and sit bones back, scooping belly in. Hold 1-3 minutes, release into Child's Pose.
Therapeutics: Strengthens arms and shoulders, stretches back of torso and legs 

---

---

Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breath)
Inhale through right nostril, exhale through left nostril, inhale through left nostril, exhale through right nostril, repeat for 10 rounds at a time, monitoring the effects.
Digital Method: With right hand touch index and middle fingers to forehead, close right nostril with thumb and left nostril with ring finger in the sequence above. Do  not turn head toward hand but bring hand in front of face. This method has a stronger affect and is best done in a seated position.
Psychic Method: Breathe in and out through alternate nostrils using your imagination. This method has a subtler affect but is easier to do lying down.
Benefits: Balances the sympathetic nervous system (fight or flight) and the parasympathetic nervous system (rest and digest), increases communication between the right and left hemispheres of the brain. 

---