Emotional Healing Through Yoga
Part II: The Sacral Chakra

by Zuzanna Vee

The second energy center in this 7-part series is the Sacral chakra. It is located in the lower abdominal area of the body, and extends outward at the front and back. The Sacral chakra nourishes the reproductive organs specifically and the pelvic area generally. When this center is balanced, our relationships are satisfying and healthy, and we experience ourselves as creative beings.

The Arena of Life that the Sacral chakra governs is Money, Sex, and Power. Around the world these issues are way out of balance. Root (first) chakra relationships are familial or tribal. In the second chakra, the relationships are with individuals: you and your boss, child, spouse, parent, etc. One-on-one. To discover if some Sacral chakra issues are 'up' for us, we can ask ourselves: How balanced are our various one-on-one relationships? What unresolved one-on-one relationship issues do we have?

Also within this Arena are issues of control/blame, guilt/shame, possessions/ finances, and some addictions. Some of the clues in the colloquial language that point to second chakra issues are: "he really ticked me off;" "f--- you!;" "thinking with your zipper" or "being led by your hormones." By paying close attention to what we are thinking, saying, and hearing from others, we can begin to identify imbalances within our energy systems.

When these energy centers or chakras become distorted, the physical body is affected. Some of the ailments that may plague you are chronic or recurring cystitis, vaginal yeast imbalance, menstrual problems, and other gynecological problems. Other areas governed by or affected by the Sacral chakra are the colon, hips, bladder, genitals and lower back.

To get to the energetic root of a physically manifested problem requires time as well as patience. I have had several oppor-tunities to witness chronic, debilitating chakra physical imbalances miraculously clear up after an attitude shift or realization. One way to identify an energy-rooted problem is when we've "tried everything and nothing seems to work." Our Soul is talking to us to get us to look deeper. Often it is very unpleasant and we come up with excuses not to do so. The pharmaceutical industry depends on us not going deeper.

Yoga practice for the Sacral chakra includes focus and intent, and simultaneously moving and stretching the pelvic region to open and release imbalance. This release can come in a variety of ways, which is true for any of the seven chakras. A flood of strong emotions, memories, and physically experienced sensation are three ways.

The Mantra for Life comes from the Sacral chakra: "Go with the Flow." Repeat this meditatively while practicing yoga and throughout the day. We try to hang on and control our lives so desperately we forget that we can control very little. Worry begins in the Sacral chakra. When you find yourself worrying and trying to control circumstances or people, try going with the flow. This means acceptance of where you are, where others are, and that there is a "bigger picture" that you haven't yet glimpsed. Simple, but not so easy.

Movements that will get the Sacral energy flowing are belly dancing and Latin dancing. Let go and have fun! Wear or look at the color orange. Listen to water sounds and music. Meditate and practice yoga asanas (postures) by a bubbling stream or gentle ocean surf. The Sacral chakra is the water element. Flow, don't stagnate.

Several yoga asanas that help get the flow activated are listed below. Incorporate some of these into your daily practice. These can all be practiced as movements or held postures. Practicing them as movement series (vinyasa) will enhance the water element of the second chakra. Focus in the pelvic area, and gently hold a Sacral chakra issue in your consciousness as you practice, dedicating the entire time of practice to that issue. Notice what comes up for you: feelings, memories, sensations, insights.

This is an advanced contemplative practice and no effort is involved - only observation after the initial conscious dedication. Deep, slow breathing is also practiced, allowing the movements to follow the breath to draw you inward. You do not think about the issue. You are a vessel allowing things to bubble up to the surface of consciousness for objective observation. This is a very effective practice when done correctly.

Standing forward bends:

Creates a link between first and second chakras. Always work on chakras around the area on which you are working. Any imbalance in a lower chakra will affect the ones above it.

Sitting forward bends

Kneeling lunges

Pelvic Rolls

Beginning

Finished

The Cat

Remember: don't relegate a posture to only one chakra or area of the body. Your focus and intent bring the benefit where you "will." Flexibility in all areas of life is a worthwhile goal.

Zuzanna Vee teaches at many facilities in the Triangle area and has 15 years teaching experience. She has a private healing practice in Chapel Hill incorporating yoga therapy, shamanic practices, meditation, energy healing, herbs and homeopathy. Contact her at
919-542-3001, or please visit www.RainbowHealing.net. Photo credit: Beverly Johnson.