Guided Meditation Practice

Open Your Heart Chakra

In the yoga tradition, the chakras are junction points between the physical body and consciousness. The human body contains seven major chakras that are aligned in a column from the base of the spine to the top of the head. The ancient sages envisioned the chakras as wheels or energy centers, and each one is associated with a specific vibration.

The heart chakra, known in Sanskrit as the anahata, is the energy center located in the area of our physical heart. This is the center in the body where love and spirit are joined. It is our heart that aches or fills with love, that feels compassion and trust . . . that seems empty or overflowing. When the energy in the heart chakra is flowing freely, we feel deeply connected to all beings and we experience an abundance of love, peace, and acceptance. When the heart center is blocked, we tend to feel isolated and fearful, unable to trust and receive the blessings of life.

Meditation for Your Heart

We can open and clear the heart chakra with a simple meditation practice using the Sanskrit mantra yum – the healing sound that resonates with the heart center.

Begin by closing your eyes and taking a few deep breaths. As best you can, let go of any thoughts about the past and any expectations. Put your attention on the area of your heart and take another deep inhalation. As you exhale, say or chant the mantra yum in one long syllable.

Feel the sensations in your body and feel the energy flowing effortlessly from the base of your spine through your heart chakra. Visualize the energy as a beautiful green light that nurtures and bathes your heart in pure love, clearing away the residue of the past.

Repeat the mantra yum until you feel infused with a feeling of peace and safety.