The sixth chakra, known in Sanskrit as ajna, is often commonly referred to as the third-eye chakra, and it is said to be found on the forehead, directly above the nose. According to people who practice kundalini and other forms of yoga, this chakra is the body's center for spiritual energies relating to accurate perception, understanding and mental acuity. The energies of the sixth chakra are said to hold influence over the eyes, brain, pineal and pituitary glands. Imbalances or blockages in this chakra are believed to lead to migraines, vision loss, unpleasant dreams, and eyestrain. Practitioners of the yogic arts believe that positive thinking, chanting mantras, and performing inverted and balance-oriented yoga poses can clear blockages from the sixth chakra, and balance its energies.
The energies of the sixth chakra are said to have a powerful influence over the mind and, by extension, the endocrine system. Practitioners of yoga often believe that mind and body are intrinsically interconnected, such that mental state may have the power to affect physical state. According to these beliefs, one who cultivates positive thoughts and a calm, controlled mind may be more likely to enjoy good physical health.
The third-eye chakra is believed responsible for the ability to perceive and understand reality. Disruptions in the third-eye chakra are believed to cause disruptions in perception, and a disconnection from reality. Negative thoughts and emotions, such as fear, are believed to result from disruptions in the energy balance of the sixth chakra.
Many practitioners of yoga believe that appropriate posture is vital to clearing the sixth chakra and balancing its energies. An inappropriate posture, in which the head is allowed to jut forward, is believed to contribute to blockage of the third-eye chakra. The cultivation of positive thoughts and beliefs is also said to be very beneficial for the proper functioning of the third-eye chakra. Affirmations and mantras using the root sound "om" are said to be beneficial for focusing the energies of the third-eye chakra.
People who practice hatha yoga typically believe that balance-oriented yoga poses can benefit the third-eye chakra. Poses such as dancer's pose are believed to help calm and focus the mind. Inverted poses, such as shoulderstand, are also believed to calm the mind and benefit the third-eye chakra.
