THE CHAKRAS, ENERGY CENTRES - Ajna
The Ajna Chakra, often called the third eye, is located at the centre of the forehead, just above the space between the eyebrows. The word Ajna translates to “command” or “to perceive,” pointing to this centre as the place where insight, intuition, and higher intelligence converge. Symbolised by a two-petaled lotus of deep indigo, Ajna is regarded as the gateway between the individual mind and higher consciousness.
Energetically, Ajna governs perception beyond the five senses. It is the seat of inner vision — the place where intuition sharpens, imagination becomes refined, and truth is recognised without needing external validation. When this centre is balanced, clarity replaces confusion, intuition becomes trustworthy, and life is experienced with depth, meaning, and coherence. Dreams may become vivid, meditation deepens, and one’s spiritual direction feels unmistakably clear.
On a physiological level, Ajna is closely associated with the pineal gland, a small but powerful endocrine gland located deep within the centre of the brain. Often referred to as the body’s “biological clock,” the pineal gland regulates circadian rhythms through the secretion of melatonin. In yogic and mystical traditions, it has long been regarded as the physical counterpart of the third eye — a bridge between the nervous system, the hormonal system, and subtle perception. When stimulated through breath, meditation, and sensory withdrawal, this region becomes more sensitive, supporting heightened awareness and expanded states of consciousness.
When the Ajna Chakra is underactive or blocked, one may experience indecision, mental fog, lack of focus, or a persistent distrust of inner guidance. Overthinking replaces knowing. There may be difficulty concentrating, a sense of disconnection from purpose, or tension and headaches around the brow and temples. When overactive, the imbalance can express as escapism, dissociation, or being overly absorbed in inner worlds without grounding in daily life.
To aliven Ajna, practices that consciously direct Prana to the mid-brain are essential. Prana Dharana gently gathers and concentrates life force at this centre, refining perception and steadiness of mind. A more potent practice, Prachardhana, uses a subtle Ujjayi-style breath directed along the roof of the mouth, creating a frictional, stimulating effect that energetically “massages” the mid-brain and awakens the pineal region. These practices are not visualisations alone — they are physiological, energetic, and deeply experiential.
Creative expression such as writing, painting, chanting, and intentional visualisation further nourishes Ajna, as does time in nature, silence, and regular meditation. When this centre is alive and integrated, we no longer move through life led only by what we see — but by what we know.