The sixth chakra, known as the Ajna or Third Eye, is associated with intuition, perception, and spiritual awareness, located between the eyebrows.
The sixth chakra, known as Ajna or the third eye chakra, is your gateway to intuition, insight, and spiritual awareness. Located between the eyebrows, this energy center governs your ability to perceive beyond the physical world. When balanced, it enhances clarity, wisdom, and inner vision.
What Is the Sixth Chakra?
The sixth chakra, or Ajna, is the penultimate energy center in the seven-chakra system. It sits above the throat chakra and below the crown chakra. Its name, “Ajna,” translates to “command” or “perceive” in Sanskrit, reflecting its role in higher consciousness.
Key Attributes of the Third Eye Chakra
- Color: Indigo blue
- Element: Light
- Symbol: Two-petaled lotus with a downward triangle
- Mantra: “OM” (the universal sound)
Signs of a Balanced Sixth Chakra
When your third eye chakra is open and aligned, you experience:
- Strong intuition and gut feelings
- Clear vision about life decisions
- Enhanced imagination and creativity
- Ability to see beyond surface appearances
- Connection to spiritual wisdom
Symptoms of a Blocked Third Eye Chakra
An imbalanced Ajna chakra may manifest as:
| Physical Symptoms | Emotional/Mental Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Headaches or migraines | Difficulty making decisions |
| Eye strain or vision problems | Over-reliance on logic |
| Insomnia or sleep disturbances | Lack of imagination |
| Sinuses issues | Feeling disconnected from intuition |
How to Activate Your Sixth Chakra
1. Meditation Practices
Focused meditation is the most powerful way to awaken your third eye. Try this simple technique:
- Sit comfortably with spine straight
- Close your eyes and focus on the space between your eyebrows
- Visualize indigo light expanding from this point
- Chant “OM” silently or aloud
- Practice for 5-15 minutes daily
2. Yoga Poses for the Third Eye
Certain yoga postures help stimulate Ajna chakra:
- Child’s Pose (Balasana): Gently presses the forehead to the ground
- Dolphin Pose: Increases blood flow to the head
- Eagle Pose (Garudasana): Requires intense focus
3. Essential Oils and Crystals
According to Yoga Journal, these natural elements support third eye activation:
- Essential Oils: Frankincense, sandalwood, and clary sage
- Crystals: Amethyst, lapis lazuli, and sodalite (find more at our guide to third eye chakra stones)
Daily Practices to Strengthen Intuition
Keep a Dream Journal
Record your dreams each morning to develop symbolic awareness.
Practice Visualization
Spend 5 minutes daily visualizing desired outcomes in vivid detail.
Trust Your Gut
Notice and honor intuitive hits throughout the day.
The Science Behind the Third Eye
The sixth chakra corresponds to the pineal gland in Western anatomy. This pea-sized gland produces melatonin and regulates circadian rhythms. Research suggests it may play a role in consciousness and perception beyond its known biological functions.
As noted by Robin Hallett, “Light gets translated into little hormone ‘messages’ throughout your body by the pineal gland.” This explains why sunlight exposure supports third eye function.
Common Myths About the Sixth Chakra
Myth 1: Only Psychics Can Develop It
Everyone has intuitive capacity – it just requires cultivation.
Myth 2: It’s About Seeing the Future
True third eye awareness focuses on present-moment clarity.
Myth 3: Opening It Causes Hallucinations
A balanced Ajna brings discernment, not delusion.
Advanced Third Eye Development
For those ready to deepen their practice:
- Try candle gazing (Trataka) meditation
- Explore sacred geometry visualization
- Work with a qualified energy healer
- Practice lucid dreaming techniques
Remember that third eye development is a gradual process. Be patient with yourself and maintain a regular practice. As your sixth chakra awakens, you’ll experience greater wisdom, creativity, and connection to your highest self.