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Spiritual

Growth

AMBIKA WAUTERS

%

THE CROSSING PRESS FREEDOM, CALIFORNIA

O

1997 Ambika Wauters

Cover design by Victoria May, based on artwork by Carol Jones and Ken Leeder First published in 1996 by Judy Piatkus (Publishers) Ltd in London Published in the U.S.A. by The Crossing Press in 1997 Printed in the U.S.A.

2nd printing 1998

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Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data Wauters, Ambika. [Journey of self discovery]

Chakras and p.

their archetypes

:

uniting energy awareness and spiritual growth

/

Ambika Wauters.

cm.

Originally published; Journey of self discovery. U.K.

:

J.

Piatkus, 1989.

Includes bibliographical references.

ISBN 0-89594-891-5 1.

(pbk.)

Chakras-Miscellanea.

BF1442.C53W39 158.1-dc21

2.

Archetype (Psychology)-Miscellanca.

I.

Title.

1997

97-25539

CIP

This book

who

I

would

like to

thank the people

Anne and

me

to

develop into a

all

me

dignity.

while

was writing

I

its

whole process while others departed from

Carter, Stephanie Barraclough

am grateful to you to my homoeopathic

cared about and supported

Avila

lived through each archetype and experienced

love goes to Sandy Cotter,

I

goes

I

who

friends stayed throughout the

My

Ahumada

and died with grace and She was a delight to us all.

each stage of transformation

good

dedicated to Inelia

is

lived

Andy Logan, Mary

energy

my

in

this

my

book. At

Sue

Jardine, Chrissy Pickin, Josh Enkin,

and Allison Jackson-Bass. Your friendship means so much

for the love

and support you unequivocally offer me.

teachers and mentors who, over the past six years of

skilful practitioner.

Thanks and love

friendship and to Ian Townsend, Azizza Griffin,

to

my

Some

life.

life.

My

Bell,

to

me

gratitude also

training,

have helped

Jude Creswell for guidance, direction and

Bob Fordham and

Gill

Scott at the School of

Homoeopathic Medicine (Darlington) who always offered superb teaching and were wonderful examples of real

Thanks

wisdom and to

Anthea Courtenay

Piatkus for seeing

Thanks too edition of

Lao

true integrity.

it

to

I

am

deeply grateful for the

for her input

through, and, as always,

and work on the

my

Cormode and Anne Lawrance

for permission to reproduce an extract

at

from

their

Ching (Piatkus, 1995).

Gratitude to the teachers, clients and friends whose

me how

text. Gill

of homoeopathy.

agent Susan Mears for her support.

Timothy Freke and Martin Palmer

Tzu's Tao Te

life tool

transformation could qualitatively take place.

I

life stories

have been inspiring. You showed

acknowledge and honor

that spirit in us all.

Give up, and you

Bow, and you

will succeed.

will stand

Be empty, and you Have

little,

and there

is

be

will

Let go of the old, and

let in

room

The wise stand

tall.

filled.

the new.

to receive

more.

out,

because they see themselves as part of the Whole.

They

shine,

because they don't want to impress.

They achieve

great things,

because they don't look for recognition. Their

wisdom

is

contained in what they are,

not their opinions.

They

refuse to argue,

so no one argues with them.

The Ancients

said:

"Give up and you will succeed."

Is this

empty nonsense? Try

If

you

are sincere,

Lao

you

it.

will find fulfillment.

Tzu's Tao Te Ching, Chapter (Piatkus, 1995)

22

CONTENTS Introduction

1

We

1

Archetypes and the Myths

2

Archetypes and the Chakras

3

The Root Chakra

4

The

Live

By

9 19

The Victim—The Mother

6

—The Empress/Emperor The Solar Plexus Chakra The Servant—The Warrior The Heart Chakra The Actor/Actress —The Lover

7

The Throat Chakra

8

The Brow Chakra

9

The Crown Chakra

5

Sacral Chakra

The Martyr

The

The

Silent

Child—The Communicator

Intellectual

—The

Intuitive

—The Guru

The Egotist

28 51

70 90 108

127 146

Conclusion

163

Bibliography

165

The symbols on this Buddha show where the chakras are located. In ascending order they are Root; Sacral; Solar Plexus; Heart; Throat; Brow; and Crown.

INTRODUCTION

We

all

have a wish to mature into healthy and whole beings, and today many peo-

ple are also seeking

ways of developing

difficult for us to learn

how

to

their spiritual nature.

grow up emotionally and

are attempting to redress this imbalance through

Our

culture

spiritually,

As

by taking responsibility for our a therapist and healer,

I

growth and development workshops,

I

our-

have frequently used the archetypes as a model for

Archetypes of the Collective Unconscious over 25 years ago, insight

empower

lives.

self-awareness and as a ladder towards spiritual growth. Since

how much

it

and many of us

therapy sessions and personal experiences which teach us to value and selves

makes

have gained about myself and

my

I

clients

first

reading Jung's

have been amazed

at

from focusing on the

archetypes which emerge during our journey towards wholeness.

This book describes the relationship between the archetypes and the chakras, the

seven main centers of the

human energy system

types with the chakras

a

is

new concept which

energy awareness with spiritual growth. In I

witness the effects of this

into

my

(see opposite). Connecting the arche-

has

this

out of attempting to unite

workshops and

work time and time

whole and integrated individuals. In

come

in individual sessions

again, as people develop

book

I

am

and grow

offering readers a guide to

CHAKRAS AND

THIilR ARCHIiTYPHS

freeing themselves of limiting, negative patterns which sap their vitaUty, and help-

ing them to

move towards

empowerment.

greater freedom and

WHAT ARE ARCHETYPES? Archetypes have emerged out of the core of human experience, and represent the positive and the negative qualities within each of us. Every archetype represents a particular, fixed pattern of

human

behavior; typical are the deities of ancient Greece

and Rome, the gods and goddesses of war, love, healing, communication and so on,

who

are archetypes. in the characters

which appear

the Beautiful Princess, the

Wicked Witch,

Archetypes are embodied throughout the ages

—

myth and

in

folklore

the Knight in Shining

Armor, and many more. They are also the projections of glamour and excitement we see today in films and on television.

The image of Marilyn Monroe,

for example,

a form of archetypal beauty and sexuality which represents the archetype of the

is

Vamp

or Siren.

We

respond to archetypes because they mirror aspects of our

Thus, when an archetypal character

orphaned child

—

is

—whether hero or

portrayed in a film or play,

we

unconscious.

wicked stepmother or

villain,

are struck

own

by the deep emotional

response that character evokes and something within us resonates with them.

Archetypes emerge as the heroes and

villains of

every culture. The Warrior arche-

type has been represented by David in the Old Testament, by Achilles and Odysseus in

Greek mythology, and King Arthur

the

myths and

type of our

stories

own

which

times

is

tell

in stories

can

all relate to this,

Round

Rambo. The reason we enjoy

who

appears in

all

is

much

is

that

triumphs over tremendous odds.

since this plays a part in our

throughout history in various guises and

own

life's

for

journey.

instance,

has existed

valued in every culture. She represents

the feminine principle of creation, whether she is

He

these stories so

Archetypes are universal. The Mother archetype,

or Sophia. She

Table.

of the Hero's quest. The quintessential macho arche-

they hold the appeal of the Warrior archetype

We

of the

is

called Maria,

the spirit of love, purity and gentleness

Isis, Ishtar,

which

Quan Yin

lives within us all.

— INTRODUCTION

ARCHETYPES AS A MIRROR Archetypes

are, in a sense, universal projections or mirrors

which come from the core of

ities

and

courage and

hate,

fear.

human experience

They show us our

shadow, our positive and our negative faceted soul of

Wise

Man

Our

or

human consciousness

Woman,

the Giver

the

of

the emotional qual-

all

strength and weakness, love

front

and our back, our

They

represent, in essence, the multi-

qualities.

—

—

Hero and

light

the Villain, the Fool

and our

and the

and the Taker, the Destroyer and the Healer.

daily experiences in the world reflect the archetypes

we

are constellating in

our inner emotional worlds; recognizing this can help us to understand our motivations

and behavior more

difficult situations,

can also recognize the Warrior or the

clearly.

For instance, when

own

lives.

We

in other words,

of

and as a potential

to

be expressed in

can embody these qualities by loving and nourishing ourselves

by becoming our own Mother, Warrior or Wise Person archetype.

Creating healthy archetypes in our lives

When we

feel helpless in the face

we may be identified with the archetype of the Victim. But we that we contain other, more positive archetypes like the Mother, Wise Person. Whether we are male or female, these archetypal

qualities exist within all of us, both as an ideal

our

we

upgrade our archetypes in

tact higher centers of

awareness and

fundamental to our healing and growth.

is

this

to live

way,

we have

the opportunity to con-

from the deep wisdom within ourselves.

In order for us to grow, the energy of any dysfunctional or negative archetype must

be released so

now

to get

that

we can

on with our

free

lives

up the

vital

energy

and make them

it is

blocking.

We

need

this

energy

flourish.

JUNG'S VIEW OF ARCHETYPES In his

book Archetypes of the

Collective Unconscious, the psychoanalyst Carl Jung

systematically revealed the existence of archetypes, which he defined as "patterns of

behavior". According to Jung they are an essential part of our awareness which,

we

if

allow them, can illuminate our unconscious ways of behaving, and help us in our

task of enlightening the unconscious and the darker aspects of our personalities that

Jung called the Shadow

—those

parts of us that

have remained undeveloped because

they have not been given expression. I first

stimulated

read Jung's book

me

when

I

was

a

young

art student,

to seek further information about archetypes

over 25 years ago.

and eventually

to

It

spend

CHAKRAS AND THEIR ARCHETYPES

time

at the

Jung

they manifest in

Institute in Zurich, Switzeriand, studying

folklore,

art,

them and

psychology and the occult sciences.

the aboriginal people of Australia,

who go

My

studies included

"Dream Time"

into their

ways

the various

make

to

their

connection with the higher spiritual archetypes of their culture, their Wise Men. also studied the Tarot with a professor of clinical psychiatry

who showed me

I

the

archetypal models found in the 2 1 cards of the Major Arcana, which represent stages

journey of the soul.

in the

While

in Zurich,

was inspired by meeting

I

worked and studied together with Jung and

men and women who had They showed me what con-

the elderly

his wife.

scious and aware people could be like as a result of looking within themselves and

weeding out negativity from ies;

their lives.

Many

of them were, by then, in their eight-

they were lively and alert and able to lecture without notes for hours.

formed

my

ideas about ageing, and helped plant the seed for a

senior years which could

worked with

my work

my

in

I

my

have

personal growth, and facilitate

as a healer, therapist and homoeopath. theories

which

first

of recognizing aspects of myself helped

me

trans-

archetype for

grace and beauty. Ever since then,

the different archetypes to aid

was Jung's

It

embody wisdom,

new

They

me

I

encouraged

my

life

way

to consider archetypes as a

had not consciously experienced before. This

gather the courage to face

to bring light to the areas of

me

my

inner

Shadow of unresolved

and

conflicts

which had previously been unexpressed.

MY PERSONAL JOURNEY My own get it

it

youth was geared, like that of most young people in the 1960s, to trying to

right to please

was expected

encouragement until

my

children. tration

my

that

parents.

would

I

to find a

I

grew up

a result,

I

my life.

in

which little

Emotions were seldom expressed

when everything

then spilled over on to the

spent years in therapy in an effort to release

my

deep

frus-

and feelings of unworthiness. The archetypal patterns of Victim, Martyr and

Servant were part of the feminine archetypes in

my

Jewish family

get an education, marry and have children, with

meaningful path for

parents reached boiling point,

As

in a middle-class

my

family, and

were imprinted

in

subconscious mind from an early age. In

my

twenties

started to fall apart

I

was well married, according

when I found I was unable

to

to

my

parents' wishes, but

have children. This threw

my

life

me directly

a

INTRODUCTION

However,

into the Victim archetype.

my

recurring theme in

life

—

for

led

it

was

it

me

also opportunity disguised as loss

to seek the help of therapy,

—

growth and

transformation work.

My

when

mother's death

was 26 freed me

I

energy had been safely channeled into

and went

to live in a therapeutic

month courses

ers

and

the

community

community

in southern Spain,

first

was.

I really

I left

my

Here

my

My

marriage

which offered

for people wishing to explore their inner nature.

and healer

sensitive

who

to find out

and soon afterwards

art,

three-

gifts as

a

emerged, with the care and guidance of some excellent teach-

friends.

From

there

I

went

in

to study for a time at the

Spain as a

staff

member.

I

Jung

Institute,

and then returned

supported myself by giving

to

art lessons

to children,

and making and

ing time.

delved into the world of yoga, healing, meditation, bioenergetics and

I

on the

selling things

local

gypsy market.

Gestalt therapy, macrobiotic cooking, and the wonderful

people from

all

I

how

who

which had seriously limited

began

my

to live

life

from the

a nice Jewish girl should be.

than what others thought

I

I

was an

excit-

company of like-minded

gathered at this center for learning and growth.

and very happy

ten years younger

I felt

typal patterns sion.

over the world

It

as

I

started to let

my health,

creativity

to

do what

should be doing. In other words,

ing from those of Victim and Martyr to those of a

rigid arche-

and emotional expres-

from time-worn ideas about

heart, rather than

was beginning

go of the

felt right for

my

me, rather

archetypes were shift-

more empowered woman.

It

was

Europe and the US,

tak-

the beginning of real growth. I

went on

to

work

when

ing time off

the gift of healing it.

I

came

to

as a bioenergetic therapist throughout

remarried and went to live in Zaire, in Africa. After ten years

I

emerged again very

England where

I

my

life,

Over

higher levels of learning

this

and

I

had no choice but

retrained as a homoeopath. This gave

erment and satisfaction than anything in

strongly,

long period of time,

I

I

had done

came

to

hitherto.

As new

to pursue

me more empow-

archetypes emerged

me.

have shifted from the Victim archetype

to those

of Mother, Martyr, Empress, Servant and Warrior, to find the path of the heart, the place of

my

Higher

Self. I

and

spiritual friends.

that

anyone making

this path.

Many

have had the help of some wonderful healers, therapists

Each time

this

journey

I

is

shifted archetypes,

never alone.

We

I

are

found new teachers. all

I

know

guided and befriended on

people reached out and opened doors for me.

CHAKRAi)

It

has

ing that

good

is

become

life is

coming

invariably serves

my

increasingly easy to release those old, worn-out patterns of feel-

abusing me. to

me and

my

am

I

my

good and joyful things

The

it.

my

in

my

growth. I

I

higher archetypes

now acknowledge

feel

came

know

to

all this

that

I

was

release

was learning

me

that there

walk down

my

I

creating the

also

know

my

road that

in the

that

came from

negativity and were always

to trust

my

Higher Self and honor

guided and protected by the Source within

truly

me

touch with myself.

am

I

and growth

lonely, but the insight

me. Each step of the way has helped

I

my

trust that the

life.

and knowing myself better, helped

What emerged from

spirit. I

in

deep center and

strength of

self-empowerment has taken many years; there were turns

taking risks,

my

be well.

feelings rather than blaming others.

were sometimes frightening and

worth

my

able to contact

that all will

consciousness and facilitates

needs and accept

My

AND THEIR ARCHETYPES

my

to define

is still

purpose as a healer and put

more opening and healing

as

path.

ARCHETYPES AND ENERGY The archetypes

that

we

and

live out reflect the psychological patterning of self-care

worthiness, demonstrating the degree to which

we

are a clear manifestation of our emotional state

and the stage we have reached

love and cherish ourselves. They in

our

growth and maturation. These archetypes are also the metaphor for the strength of our

vital

energy, and the degree of creativity and pleasure

we

enjoy.

Highly empowered people have a vast amount of energy. They can work hard,

have many are not

interests

and

empowered have

are often

ill

and require a

still

have energy

little vital

lot

is this

On

the other hand, people

of attention.

Much

of their outlook

is

As you work through

the levels of personal responsibility,

it,

you

it

I

in adulthood.

have

set out to

will see the direct link

between

and the levels of energy and empowerment each

archetype possesses. They represent a kind of ladder

By making

based on sacrifice

this as children or chosen

connection between the archetypes and energy that

explore in this book.

who

energy for themselves or for their pleasure; they

and struggle, whether they have learned It

left over.

these connections within yourself

we

all

need

to follow.

you can use the archetypes

as step-

ping stones towards developing higher states of consciousness. The more willing you

INTRODUCTION

are to take responsibility for your

the

life,

more developed your archetype

will

become, and the more empowered and energetic you will be.

ARCHETYPES AND THE CHAKRAS There are many archetypes, just as there are many types of character. In

am

concentrating on those that have

this

particular relevance to the energetic

of the chakras, or energy centers, in the

human energy

system.

book

The chakras

relate to

archetypes in that both represent a measure of our emotional states, and both story of our happiness, health, well-being

and

in greater detail in

filtered

2.

They

are points or vortices at

among

Over

and express our

maximum

the course of

my

work,

I

can

is

fulfill

Each chakra

became aware of a strong connection between

I

lives.

From

the

the vast

have chosen 14 which resonate with the emotional

and vibrational frequencies found its

we

other things, to a particular emotional state of being.

pool of archetypal characters

in both

a

will discuss

which energy

potential as creative beings.

chakras and the archetypal roles that people play out in their

issues

I

through our system; they help our energy to flow freely so that

the task of living relates,

Chapter

tell

ability to love.

There are seven main chakras in the human energy system, and

them

I

dynamics

in the chakras.

Each archetype

is

presented

positive and negative (or functional and dysfunctional) aspect, so that

you

can work with both. The relationships can be seen in the table on the next page.

WORKING WITH THE ARCHETYPES In this

book we

will

be making a journey through the chakras and

types, each representing a stage in our spiritual growth. in both their positive

By

their related arche-

recognizing these stages,

and negative aspects, you can work through them and move on

to the next stage.

Each chapter introduces a tive archetypes associated with

specific chakra, it.

and examines the negative and posi-

In addition, each aspect of the archetype

is

repre-

sented in two case studies, one male and one female. These cases are an amalgamation

of various people

I

have treated in

my

work, and they serve to

situation people face as they live out their archetypes,

the archetypes to resolve their problems and

and

illustrate the

how

they can

kinds of

work with

become more empowered. These

are


followed by exercises, meditations and affirmations to help you release old patterns

and

fears,

and focus your intention about what you want

Doing

this inner

work

will give

watched many people transform It

can help

up energy

to identify in the

you the opportunity

their lives

in life.

to heal

and grow;

through using the archetypes

where you are stuck

in

I

in this

have way.

your development, and, as you open

chakras and transform your archetypes, you will begin to

move on

and empower yourself.

CHAKRA

ARCHETYPE

EMOTIONAL ISSUES

Positive

Negative

Base

Mother

Victim

The ground of being

Sacral

Emperor/Empress

Martyr

Pleasure and well-being

Solar Plexus

Warrior

Servant

Power and self-worth

Heart

Lover

Actor

Love

Throat

Communicator

Silent Child

Effective communication

Brow

Intuitive

Intellectual

Use of information

for happiness

and health

Crown

Guru

Egotist

Highest spiritual awareness

ARCHETYPES AND THE

MYTHS WE

EIVE BY

ARCHETYPES AS MODELS OF PERSONAL WHOLENESS Archetypes are a universal projection of the collective thoughts and emotions of humanity, els

commonly

and

They provide us with mod-

become. In our own times,

fictional char-

celebrities represent various aspects of our consciousness,

and also teach

of what

acters

called the collective unconscious.

we

us about our

are,

own

and what we hope

to

inner qualities by showing us the scope of the

In addition, life itself offers us the opportunity to see our

own

human

archetypes played out,

acting as a mirror for our inner state and showing us stepping stones

can

move forward on our path of self-development. When we study myths and folklore it becomes

embraced an

ideal of personal wholeness. Ancient

Braveheart (1995) spiritual

tell

clear that

condition.

by which we

humanity has always

myths and

modem

films like

of the hero overcoming a series of ordeals in his search for

and emotional wholeness, whether

in the

form of a hidden treasure or an

enchanted princess. Often these seekers are offered special knowledge or help by a

Wise Old Man

or

Woman,

a

Mage

or an

Old Crone.

CHAKRAS AND THEIR ARCHHTYPES

10

We

enjoy these tales of triumph, success and especially love; they teach us about

the treasures of

life,

and can offer us the wisdom we need

of our personal experience. Their implicit message

our edge on ual journey truths

life.

is

The process of stepping forward

that

to value the real

we must

in life is

jewels

take risks, or lose

necessary to the contin-

which opens up our awareness and sense of discovery, giving us new

and deeper

insights.

MYTHS AND CULTURE In ancient times archetypes

found their way

into oral story-telling

first

and then

into

recorded myth. The archetypal images mirrored in these stories revealed the special qualities people

needed

to flourish in their culture,

such as fighting prowess and cun-

ning. Odysseus, for example, represents the Warrior archetype of his day, to use all his wits

and cunning through

his travels

who

has

and adventures. Such myths become

incorporated into the culture as ways of teaching people about

wisdom and

virtue,

as well as examples of meeting life's challenges. Stories and

myths also reveal the

level of a society's development.

As

societies

evolved, so did the archetypal themes of their stories. In medieval literature, for instance, grace

and justice were a theme of the legends of King Arthur and

his knights.

Tales like Perceval's quest for the Holy Grail (an archetype of the selO reflect the

high spiritual values that were held in esteem

at that time,

while the Round Table

stands for an archetype of wholeness.

Fairy tales, too, have value for a culture because they teach people, particularly the young, about qualities such as devotion, virtue and courage. For example, in the story of Cinderella ily

whose beauty

is

we

not allowed to shine, and

stepmother and jealous innocent.

see the downtrodden youngest child of a dysfunctional fam-

Her mother

sisters.

is

Cinderella

is

who

is

abused and manipulated by her

the archetypal

Lover

—pure of

heart and

dead, and her father has failed to save her from the cruelty

of his second wife.

The

father represents the negative aspect of the Warrior archetype (the Servant),

since he lacks the courage to stand up for what he sisters is

embody

the negative qualities of envy, greed

the archetypal Magician,

props to help Cinderella

who

fulfil

knows

is

wrong, while the step-

and hatred. The

fairy

godmother

transforms simple, everyday objects into magical

her destiny by meeting the prince.

ARCHETYPES AND THE MYTHS WE

We

LIVE BY

are reminded throughout this story of the archetypes of

which destiny plays

the role

in our lives.

We

human

good and

evil,

and

gain insight, even as children, into the

corrosive quality of jealousy and rivalry, and learn

over the darker aspects of the

11

how

beauty and love can prevail

spirit.

LEARNING ABOUT OURSELVES

THROUGH STORIES AND MYTHS We

we

can learn about ourselves by remembering which myths and stories

as children.

They showed us what was honored

in our

cherished

homes and communities, and

those that fired our imagination and touched us deeply often remain imprinted on our

How many

minds.

people

still

secretly long to find the beautiful princess, or to

be

rescued by a knight in shining armor?

You may

find

it

useful to

know which myths have

influenced your

life. If

stories

were part of your childhood, think about those you enjoyed, and what you may have incorporated from them into your belief system. Did you suffer with the orphan child in

The

Monte

Little

Match Girl and

identify with her?

Or

did you rally to The Count of

Cristo, believing that life could be a wonderful adventure in

always come through, no matter

We

how

difficult the situation?

also assimilate the impressions

and as we integrate

their

which you would

we

receive from fashion, films and music,

messages we make

their ideals part of

our lives as well as

own individual myth. Since we write the scripts of our own dramas, it is important to know at which level we wish to participate. Do we want to star as the Victim, the Hero or the Guru of our own life script? Into which roles do we project our thoughts and desires? How brightly do we want our star to shine? It is valuable to be aware of these scripts, for they may not be serving us. It was our

only recently that

boredom, and

myth was she had,

had the courage

I

realize

how

was never

look

unfulfilled she was.

clearly about the princess

it

to

quite

who

at

my

late

mother's unhappiness and

Her archetype was

the Martyr, and her

could never find happiness.

good enough, but so long

as she

No

matter what

remained a Martyr she

could never find the happiness she so desperately wanted. I

was expected

for generations.

As

to live out the

myth

that the

women

in

my

the oldest daughter of the oldest daughter,

everyone happy and get things right for

my

family.

To say

it

family had lived out

was

my

role to

the least, this

make

myth did

CHAKRAS AND THKIR ARCHETYPES

12

No one

not last for too long.

But

to be happy.

living

from

it

took a

lot

me

that place in

can

try to live

out

someone

else's fantasy

of time, and real work on myself, before

and expect could

I

start

that felt real.

ARCHETYPES

AND TELEVISION

IN FILMS

Television programs, magazines and films have a lot to teach us about archetypes; in today's

world the media are our link to the collective unconscious, and

ple relate to clients

them reveals much about themselves and

mentions a particular television program,

identify with. their

As

I

how

one of

their longings. If

what aspect of

will ask

peo-

it

my

they

they describe their attraction to or interest in a particular character,

answers often give

me

a sense of their archetypal processes.

With such strong visual stimulation from

and advertisements,

television, films

today's archetypes appear in the form of image setters as well as heroes.

human

types presented in the media contain the very best and worst of reflecting the qualities valued in our time.

It is

interesting that

popular films are stories of scams and cons; they seem to

The

many

arche-

endeavor,

of our current

reflect, at

some uncon-

scious level, the permissiveness and greed of our society with their implicit message that

it is

acceptable to be dishonest as long as you don't get caught.

Fortunately, there are also

many

positive archetypes in today's popular media.

Present-day archetypes, though wearing

mas which

dress, face

are universal themes, transcending time

or read the story, whether

Arthurian legend, tion so

modem

we

many people

it

is

Rambo who

moral and ethical dilem-

and fashion. As

takes on the

enemy

we watch

or Sir

the

movie

Gawain from

learn about opposition, courage and steadfastness.

The

the

fascina-

find in soap operas lies in their on-going stories of struggles for

power and triumphs over

adversity, while their characters often portray recognizable

archetypes including Victims and Warriors, Mothers and Empresses.

and heroines cope with

their personal

How

their heroes

problems and form or dissolve relationships

audiences deeply, and can, indeed, be helpful by the examples they

affects

offer.

Recently, a middle-aged friend of mine suffered a marriage breakdown. During

her

initial

period of grief she saw on television a wonderfully sensitive story about

a middle-aged

of

how

she

aging, as

it

woman whose husband

managed

to

cope and

live

fell in

love with a younger

woman. The

story

through the situation was touching and encour-

showed her confronting her

grief

and anger, and eventually regaining her


self-esteem.

It

13

not only presented the universal archetype of an age-old dilemma faced

by many women,

them courage and support by presenting a kind of

also offered

it

emotional blueprint as to one's

LIVE BY

how

handle one's grief and bewilderment and rebuild

to

life.

This, too,

was an archetypal

which the heroine moved from the arche-

situation, in

type of Victim to that of Warrior through facing her challenges.

be a positive outcome: that she could survive

to see that there could

come through

with her

intact,

enabled

It

ahead of

life

her.

my

friend

this ordeal

and

This was a truly positive example of

learning from an archetypal story.

TWO-DIMENSIONALITY AND INDIVIDUALITY Archetypes can to

show us our

They

reflect the

deeper aspects of our emotional nature.

show us our back, or

front, or lighter, side they will also

are a template for

what

neurotic in our personalities.

is

good and healthy

They

we

If

in us, as well as

are, basically, a

allow them

darker, sides.

what

is

dark and

two-dimensional portrait of our

individual attitudes.

We

can see

this in the

myths of good and

which the Hero and the Villain are portrayed

dom

see archetypes in the

more

evil

in strictly black

variable shades of

map and issues we all

we come human

to

know

and white terms.

nature.

They

as children, in

As

with

all

We

sel-

models,

a pure form, an

archetypes are simply a

are not the territory.

approach to the Ufe

face, but they lack the multi-dimensional characters

offer, in

of real people, and the limitless choices and creative possibilities available to us.

Jung has been quoted as saying, "Never identify with your archetype." he meant that to do so would detract from our humanness and individuality.

we become

too strongly identified with the role

dimensionality of our individual tries to act

lates a

too

much

like

glamorous film

self,

Rambo

and with

at the

star at the cost

it

we

are playing,

we

I

think

When

lose the three-

our freedom of choice.

expense of his feelings, or a

When a man woman emu-

of her natural beauty, he or she loses what

is

quintessential in themselves. It is

in the nature

of archetypes to be bigger than

life,

but they are not three-

dimensional, they are not human; they are the purest essence of a characterization.

An

archetype will never disappoint you: his or her choices and reactions are always

predictable.

Rambo

is

not going to

let

down

millions of fans by suddenly realizing

CHAKKAS ANI^

14

thai the

enemy

is

just an

ARCHtTYI'EiJ

outward projection of

can develop his higher consciousness.

Rambo

ing his fellow man.

rilliiK

He

is

emotional state so that he

his inner

not going to stop fighting and start lov-

needs his opposition in order to keep alive the myth of

the Invincible Warrior.

We

Individuals, by contrast, are unique.

dark, the

good and

the bad.

It is

of archetypes, and accept your

are

all

a composite of the light

important to avoid personal identification with a set

own

individuality.

growth and consciousness through helping you

Archetypes are here

to identify

block your true nature. They are not and never could be

do not encompass the

totality

and the

to serve

your

any patterns which may

who you

are,

because they

of your personality.

ARCHETYPES AS RITES OF PASSAGE All

human

fact,

cultures have celebrated the conscious evolution of the soul.

have, in

created archetypes to reflect the different stages of our emotional development.

They symbolize

rites

of passage towards wholeness and integration. In the esoteric

schools of philosophy this process of achieving oneness

when we itual

We

transcend our current archetypes and

is

called initiation.

move on towards

It

occurs

higher levels of spir-

awareness.

We

have with us the possibility of realizing

dominant or passive in life

we can draw on

For example, when

to serve

we

and

assist us in

—our new-found fullest potential

development, each of which has types to see what

is

normal

happy, carefree child finally the

state,

our lives

is

at

its

own

—such

such as that of the Empress or initiation.

without passing through every stage of

archetype.

We

look to these universal arche-

any particular stage: for example the archetype of the

followed by the rebeUious adolescent, then the responsible

wise and mature

elder. If, for

some

archetypal role appropriate to our stage of development,

our balance.

in

Each process of transcending an archetype completes a cycle of

cannot grow to our

and

we want

sense of entitlement takes us out of the

Victim or Martyr archetype into a more positive

adult,

which emerge from the

our spiritual awakening.

begin actively to create what

as love, health and happiness

We

the archetypes, whether they are

the energy of new, higher archetypes

shadow of our personality

the Warrior.

all

As we develop and progress along our path

in our personalities.

we diverge from the we may need help to regain

reason,

I


LIVE BY

For example, many of us contain within us the Silent Child:

which has been damaged or hurt by the uations because

it

has

become stuck

past,

that part of

our psyche

and cannot respond to new or positive

sit-

But when

we

in the patterns of fear or intimidation.

who we

use the archetypes as a guide to the inner process of discovering us to

IS

are,

they help

become our own Healer and Guru. Through acknowledging and nourishing our

ity to

care for and understand ourselves,

we

abil-

can embody the Mother archetype which

gives us the possibihty of healing this Silent Child. Through releasing the pain of this

wound, whatever has been

arrested

and thwarted

is

allowed to heal and grow. Then the

Child can flourish, and continue to mature in a creative and spiritual way.

THE NEED TO MOVE ON For us

complete our journey, the positive aspects of the archetypes also need to

to

be transcended. Most of us get stuck to succeed, a

young man

of

at certain stages

starting out in business will

For example,

life.

in order

need courage, willpower and

determination, and possibly also cunning and aggression. In other words, he will cultivate the qualities of the

them

incorporate

Warrior archetype, and as his career progresses he will

into his personality.

He may spend

a

good

part of his life at this level of development.

However,

archetype can and should change as he matures, through finding love, creativity, control and spiritucdity. This will happen easily If,

however, he

remain arrested will

is

resistant to

at a

lower

if

he

open

is

to his

his

self-

growth process.

change and avoids facing emotional challenges, he may

level.

He may marry because

that is expected of him, but

remain focused on his personal power. If

he

fails to

choose love, he

push him towards

that

which he

is likely to

resists.

have experiences in his

life that will

These may take the form of an

illness,

or

perhaps an external event like a car accident or a major setback in business. Whatever the trigger,

it

will

Once he chooses draw on the in order to spirituality

make him aware of to

his

grow emotionally, he

qualities of a

become more

new

loving.

need for closer relationships with others. will transcend his Warrior archetype

archetype, the Lover, exchanging his focus on

He can then go on to

many women

are cast in the role of the

their lives. This is a positive archetype, but there

power

seek higher levels of refinement,

and empowerment when he incorporates love into

Similarly,

and

comes

his life.

Mother a stage

for a long period of

when a woman needs

CHAKRAi;

16

She may come

to transcend that role. is


to reahze that in giving too

who blames

enacting the Servant, or perhaps the Martyr

She can choose

faction.

uality

how

and pleasure

to stand

up

to

embody

the

for herself

and negotiate

to others she

others for her dissatis-

Empress by valuing her own

She can also move

in life.

much

femininity, sex-

into the Warrior archetype

world

in the

—perhaps by

by learning

getting a job,

attending an assertiveness course or studying for a degree.

Transcending these positive archetypes does not mean that

When we

have moved beyond the Mother or the Warrior,

for us to

draw on when needed. But they

scious of

them instead of

the archetypes will also tually

become

It is

the

are

now

them run our

letting

change

in quality;

we

leave them behind.

their qualities are

differentiated; that

And

lives.

we

as

is,

still

we

there

are con-

continue to progress,

our inner Mother will develop and even-

Wise Woman.

important not to skip stages on this journey. There are

many people

seek-

who may have wonderful experiences through meditation and But we cannot leap from the Victim to the Guru and expect to remain at that high level if we have bypassed other aspects of ourselves. Until we have worked our way through all archetypal stages of development, life will bring ing spiritual growth

other spiritual practices.

up

situations that will force us to

pay attention

to

any parts of ourselves which need

healing and transformation.

Sometimes tions in

which

I

same archetype

the

find

will

re-emerge repeatedly. There are

myself feeling helpless, alone and unable

archetype repeatedly emerges. Over time, however, as

it

appears, and realize that

Once

I

remind myself

handle whatever

that

I

it

am

comes up whenever not a Victim,

needed with humour and

is

With time and

repetition

I

realize

more conscious and empowered one tually,

new

reflected in

archetypes have emerged

my

increasingly as

I

I

experience what

take I

am

more and more feeling.

deny

my own

my

Victim

to identify

it

sense of power.

able to stand up for myself and

As

I

this

archetype and create a

evolve emotionally and

conscious mind. This

daily activities and particularly in I

I

can transform

my

and

situa-

dignity.

for myself. in

am

to cope,

have become able

I

many

my

responsibility for

relationships. This

my

life,

spiri-

new awareness

is

happens

and allow myself

to

I


LIVE BY

17

PROJECTIONS: LIFE AS A MIRROR OF OUR FEELINGS Until

we

The

ing out.

looking, most of us are not fully aware of what roles

start

best opportunities to find out are offered

we come up

against

shows us how

far

we

are

by

empowered

life itself.

to stand

we may be

liv-

Every situation

up for ourselves,

express our feelings and, ultimately, relate to others. Life

use

is that

ifest that

we

when we

we are ugly and no one loves By projecting that reality on to

believe

experience for us.

come

believe will

true.

The opposite

is

The degree of empowerment we have other people.

The Victim archetype,

the Warrior archetype will see

will

often

the world around us,

we

believe

that belief in the

what

are beau-

world around

us.

be reflected in our experiences with

for example, sees

them

I

thought will man-

us, that

When we

also true.

and worthy of love, we create confirmation of

tiful

we embrace. An example

always a perfect mirror for the attitudes

is

and creates others as the enemy;

as opponents; the Intuitive archetype will real-

ize that these people are projections of their state of consciousness;

and the Guru

archetype will experience everybody as one, with no separation between them. Projection the archetype

is

we

it

keeps us fixed in

see this a lot with married couples,

when one blames

the extemalization of our inner emotional state; are living out.

I

the other for all their unhappiness instead of realizing that their partner is simply reflecting their

dren their that is

own

own

inner

state. It also

occurs

when

parents project on to their chil-

unresolved childhoods, perhaps making them the scapegoat for

all

wrong, or conversely, spoiling them because they themselves did not receive

enough

love. In society, projection is at the root of prejudice,

gious or sexual:

it

whether

happens when one group of people projects on

racial, reli-

to the other all the

negative qualities they do not want to acknowledge in themselves.

When we own glasses distorted

our projections, by recognizing that

by our own emotions, we can make the

thinking that will allow us to grow.

can choose

may

at

which

then find that

we want

to

are in fact seeing through

shifts in

our perception and

Once we become aware of our archetypes we

level of awareness

we wish

to

modify our behavior

of understanding and self-awareness, and act in a

We

we

respond to

life situations.

to resonate with a

way

We

deeper level

appropriate to the situation.

can always choose to draw upon our deep inner awareness to guide us on

our path. As

we make

the shift in our thinking,

we move on to new archetypes, and we are given greater strength to

higher levels of vitality and empowerment, so that


18

support ourselves in our

new

tasks.

The

we are who we are.

sent themselves in our lives as

deepening awareness of

We

have within us

all

ready to

the archetypes, built into our consciousness,

choose which archetype we wish

we

we need to move us on will premeet new challenges from an ever-

situations

to live from.

We

can

live

our lives as Victims,

want, and be constantly at the affect of the outer world, or

selves with greater awareness through inner

from a place of wisdom and mastery.

work and

and we can

spiritual

if

we can empower

our-

development, and

live

ARCHETYPES AND THE CHAKRAS

At

first,

connecting archetypes with

was only an

human

relationships and emotional development

me. But as

intellectual concept for

I

went on

to

work

in

homoeopathy

and bioenergetic therapy, both forms of healing which help release deep emotional blockages,

I

experienced for myself the strong connection between the archetypal

roles and the attitudes people play out in their lives,

saw

states they experience. I

that people

who were

and the energetic and emotional manifesting clearer and stronger

archetypes also had stronger and higher states of energy.

For example, from

my own experiences

clear that the Victim has

little left

Guru, a

for family

my work with other people it became

—

minimal energy. The Warrior, by contrast

businessman or woman, for instance but

and

—may have

and intimate relationships.

spiritual teacher, in India, I

the workaholic

ruthless energy in his or her career,

On

the other hand,

was deeply impressed by

the

when

I

met a

abundance of energy

which poured from him and the intimate connections with one another

that

everyone

experienced in his presence. There was no sense of exclusiveness or separateness at this level

of consciousness, only a wondrous sense of belonging and a deep connec-

tion with one's self tered,

it

was

and

distinct

others.

The energy

from anything

1

level

was so

high, yet peaceful and cen-

had previously experienced.


20

The Guru demonstrated and a

level of

there

must be a

were living

development

a major shift in awareness from the Warrior archetype, definitely

I

wanted

to

know more

about.

struck

It

me

that

between people's energy and the archetype they

direct connection

out.

HOW ATTITUDES CAN HURT OR HEAL US The

relationship of the archetypes to our emotional and physical well-being

linked to our attitudes about ourselves and

When we spirit,

we

feel

life.

Simply

create the space for

we

love ourselves

What you

good things

to

happen

are with love

in

our

lives.

leave an opening for negative experiences to

think about not only affects

experiences in your

life

which correspond

thing to be true, your experiences will

your attitudes and opinions

fall

how you

feel

into line with

attract things to

you

like a

is

ability to

that

we

to affirm ourselves

and

feel

creates

your

belief. In other

words,

magnet.

we

believe about

what

is

good and pure within

us.

We

are truly worthy of love, tenderness and respect.

is

changing those which are negative.

become more

it

WTien you believe some-

change our ideas about our thoughts and feelings whenever we

honor ourselves, and realize

One way

fail to

a challenge and a gift from our Higher Self, the posi-

tive template of our fullest potential, to look at

have the

When we

come our way.

People and situations offer us opportunities to experience what ourselves. Every situation

and a gracious

about yourself:

to those feelings.

closely

energy follows thought.

stated,

good about ourselves and accept who we

is

by examining our

When we

attitudes and, if necessary,

change our feelings about ourselves

positive and affirmative, our energy changes:

we

lighten

to

up and look

good. Other people pick up on our vibration and affirm our good feelings

about ourselves. Frankly speaking, the choice

be and what

we want

experience in our

you think or This ters,

is

known

feel

the

life

to

is

ours and ours alone, as to what

do with our experiences.

or

we can

stay locked in

about yourself and others

is

We

as chakras, function in the issue,

life to

can learn and grow from every

blame and

rejection.

But whatever

reflected in your energy.

working principle by which archetypes and

lems with a particular

we want

human energy

system.

such as lack of self-love,

their related

energy cen-

Whenever we have prob-

this will

be reflected in lowered

energy in the relevant chakra, and a need to work with the related archetype.


21

WORKING WITH THE CHAKRAS There are seven main chakras the base to the

crown of

human energy

in the

the head.

They

are non-anatomical vortices of energy

and within the physical body

exist just outside

system, ahgned up the spine from

at

what

is

which

called the etheric level of

the aura; this lies outside of and interpenetrates our physical body.

Their purpose vitality to live

is to filter

our

lives.

Each of the seven chakras

gland and specific organ in

from the cosmos and the

area,

its

life

life

force or allowing

it

energy channeled

energy will not flow in that area.

energy of the physical body but also to specific

emotional issues. Each has encoded within

more than anything

blocked,

life

and we can develop physical problems

relates not only to the health

blocking the

is

we have enough

relates to a particular ductless

supplementing them with

one or more

earth. If

freely through our system,

Each

energy throughout our system so that

it

the pattern of our attitudes

to flow freely. It is

which are

our thoughts and attitudes,

which block or release the flow of energy through the

else,

chakras.

The degree of archetype

we

positive or negative energy within each chakra corresponds to the

are presently living out in our lives.

a direct link between sibility

how

well

we

Both archetypes and chakras

love ourselves, and our levels of

and empowerment. They reveal the

qualities in ourselves

vitality,

reflect

respon-

which shine

in the

Light of Self, and those that are in need of greater awareness and development.

Each chakra holds within

it

a negative or dysfunctional archetype as well as a

positive, functional one. Its level of vitality, well-being

with the archetype

it

and

is

is

is

associated

embraces. They begin with the Victim, which has litde

and empowerment and of this scale

and awareness

is

the Guru,

connected with the

vitality

associated with a dysfunctional root chakra; at the top end

which

is light, free, full

Crown

of vitality and totally

empowered

chakra.

Thus, working with the chakras helps us to understand where our energy

is

blocked, while working with the archetypes shows us which attitudes or emotional issues

we need

to

examine

in order to

move on

to the next, higher stage.


22

THE SEVEN MAIN CHAKRAS, AND THEIR RELATED EMOTIONS AND ARCHETYPES

—The Root Chakra

1

This chakra

filters

basic reality of essentials

ourselves.

We

The emotional

for survival

home

words,

issues relating to this chakra revolve around the

and our sense of security

to protect us, financial security

also need

good emotional

ties

in the world.

This includes

and adequate food

to nourish

with our family, friends, community and

becomes damaged when we

country. This chakra in other

located at the base of the spine in the area of the tailbone.

energy up from the earth and connects our higher energies to the

life.

we need

the shelter of a

is

lose our connection to

when we become disconnected from

the

Mother Earth;

most basic human

levels of

existence.

Related to the root chakra are the dysfunctional archetype of the Victim, and the functional archetype of the

2

—The Sacral Chakra

navel and 2 inches it

in.

is

Mother.

abdomen about 2 inches below

located in the lower

In Eastern philosophy this center

is

known

as the Hara,

plays an essential part in the Asian martial arts as the central focus for

the

and

movement

and co-ordination.

At an emotional and

sexuality.

one

in

It is

level,

it

a center

governs our sense of abundance, well-being, pleasure

which has been highly exploited

our Western culture has perfect function in

in

this chakra.

our society, and no

A

basic attitude of

well-being and having enough are associated with a healthy sacral chakra.

The dysfunctional archetype connected with tional archetype is the

—The Solar Plexus Chakra It

chakra

is

the

Martyr; the func-

Empress/Emperor.

3

stomach.

this

is

located in the upper

abdomen

in the region

of the

energizes the organs of digestion and helps us to sensitize ourselves to

our environment. The emotional issues of the Solar Plexus are focused on self-worth, self-esteem, self-confidence and personal power. attitudes

It is

towards empowerment and decision-making.

therefore connected with our

When we

value ourselves,

we

have a well-functioning Solar Plexus. At present, many people are focusing on releasing the dysfunctional

The Servant

is

the functional one.

power

issues

which

affect this chakra.

the dysfunctional archetype of the Solar Plexus, and the

Warrior


—The Heart Chakra

4

ical heart. It relates,

is

23

located in the center of chest above the region of the phys-

The healthy functioning of this chakra

of course, to love and joy.

allows us to form loving bonds with people in the world around us and to reach out

People with open hearts are a blessing in any family or community; they

to others.

how

teach us about love and kindness, and

to forgive ourselves

and others for any

lack of love or caring.

The dysfunctional archetype of functional archetype

5

—The Throat

Chakra

is

clearly for

to

It is

enhance our creative

we

is

to allow clear

6

the

acts as the bridge

and effective commu-

When we are able to express our feelings open, and we feel alive and expressive. If,

is

are blocked in expressing ourselves, this center

The dysfunctional archetype of is

it

spirit.

gested. This can lead to health problems focused in the throat,

one

and the

the center of communication, creativity, self-

purpose

its

and honestly our throat center

any reason,

the Actoi/Actress,

located inside the throat, where

hearts.

expression, willpower and truth;

and

is

the Lover.

is

between our minds and our

nication,

the Heart chakra

this center is the Silent

becomes con-

mouth and

sinus areas.

Child, and the functional

Communicator.

—The Brow Chakra

is

located in the forehead between the eyebrows.

It

governs

our ability to think and discern, use our intuition and imagination, and gather wis-

dom from

our

life

experiences.

It is

also

known

as the control center, because

it is

thoughts and attitudes which enable us to change our perceptions and ideas about

how

life is,

or

how we

think

it

begin to build a strong spiritual

should be.

When we

7

is

located at the very

beauty, refinement and our spiritual nature. the physical body, starting the process of the the spirit in the body. This chakra

It

is

we

is

the Intellectual, and the func-

crown of the head, and

links us with

channels energy from the heavens into

downward flow of energy which grounds

grows and develops as we mature, and opens us

Source within.

The dysfunctional archetype of the Crown type

life,

Wise Person.

—The Crown Chakra

to the

on

life.

The dysfunctional archetype of the Brow chakra tional archetype is the

reflect positively

the

Guru.

is

the Egotist, and the functional arche-


24

HOW CHAKRAS AFFECT OUR HEALTH AND HAPPINESS The chakras

are conductors of energy; healthy chakras allow energy to flow freely

through our physical and emotional bodies and our energetic system. The flow of

energy

may

life

be stopped, however, by negativity, often by the negative thought "and

the media. It

ents.

is

we

said in Chinese medicine that

Sometimes a

in order to

life

grow and

vision or attitude

is

inherit our life force

deeply rooted in the family history, and

we may be

live creatively,

from both our par-

forced to bring into our

own

sciousness the unexpressed anger, fear or grief which stopped our parents from

conliv-

ing their lives to the fullest.

As we develop our consciousness, what may have been seen attitude in the family

by these old physical

becomes no longer

When we

are emotionally blocked

down and

inhibits our

some form of

physical or

of energy in the chakras slows

attitudes, the flow

vitality. If

viable.

these blocks are not released through

emotional expression, they can impede the

as an acceptable

we become

flow so severely that

life

ill

or unbalanced.

As we have

seen, the archetypes,

and ideas

are a collection of attitudes levels of health

and well-being. Our

how

dent upon our thinking, by to discharge

which are very closely linked

have a direct relationship with our

that also

state

positive

of happiness and health

we

to the chakras,

are,

and by our

is

ability

therefore depen-

and willingness

blocked energy.

In Chapter

1

we looked

at the

example of a young man

starting off in business.

In terms of the chakras, in order to cultivate the qualities of the Warrior archetype, his vital

energy will be focused

he has problems

in

of personal power. If

developing his sense of power, integrity and self-worth, he

develop health problems

At a

in his Solar Plexus, the center

later stage, the

in this area,

businessman

focused in the heart center

may

perhaps in the

who

resists

liver,

stomach or small

may

intestine.

developing his capacity for loving,

find himself suffering

from problems

in the area of

the Heart chakra.

There

is

clear evidence that energy shifts

more accepting and loving we opens up and

starts to flow.

are of ourselves

When

our minds, then our energy can

when we change our

attitudes.

The

and our hves, the quicker our energy

positive patterns replace outworn negative ones in

shift to

a lighter, freer level, expressed in a sense of


freedom, joy and ease. thing,

and are happier and

One way we can are in a situation

we

that

When we begin

which

we

feel better

about every-

healthier.

that

tell

to accept ourselves

25

blocked energy

is

impeding our happiness

and negative responses. By looking

at

We

are then experiencing our

our emotional response

chakras are blocked and which archetype

we

are playing out.

we can

own

we can

limitations

identify

which

We then have the option damage by

of starting the healing process. Rather than creating further the rut of punishing and judging ourselves,

when we

and happiness, and yet find

offers all the potential for fun

are fearful, blocked or critical.

is

getting into

focus love, warmth, gentleness

and understanding on those wounded parts of ourselves.

CHOOSING LOVE AND POSITIVE ATTITUDES It is

up

choose

to us to

is

certainly

to

be

at

more joy and

which

level of awareness

serenity

when we

live

we wish

to see ourselves.

There

our lives from the highest intention

we can be, and to love others as we would wish to be loved. But to state, we all have old patterns which block our well-being and need to be

all that

reach this

changed. Personal growth and spiritual development

is

about moving through those

impediments.

For those

who choose

jections and blame, is truly

it is

a

not to look at themselves, and

shame both

weed out

and for those close

for themselves

who

are

By

the

same

working on themselves, whatever level of awareness they are

ing and joyful to be around because they are taking responsibility for

and making a Life, if

and greatest

real effort for their lives to

we

work and

There

joy.

who

are uphft-

they are,

to find happiness for themselves.

Every situation we are

in,

whether

it

let

involves a personal or a work-

go of our

negativity. This

get momentarily uncomfortable or even painful, but ultimately

our feelings and

When we

token, peo-

at,

choose, always gives us the opportunity to trust in our highest good

ing relationship, asks us to trust in ourselves and

let

go of the impediments

to our joy

it

can

serves us to feel

and aliveness.

love ourselves, and forgive and bless others,

ment, joy and serenity in our lives; everything flows

we

to them.

nothing more disheartening and frustrating than watching friends and loved

ones act out the same old, tired games over and over again. ple

their negative pro-

we

better.

are

open

to enchant-

The degree

to

which

value ourselves and are able to express our feelings reflects a more developed

L


26

We

archetype and a higher level of well-being and happiness.

what

and good for

right

is

you want

If

to

to discern

grow from your experiences, watch how you

feel,

and pay atten-

your actions, behavior and dreams: these are the best indicators of your

tion to

tudes and innermost feelings.

yourself and ing to do

can

how

learn

us.

They help you

life.

some work on

live

your

The

rest

life

of

They

book

is

stuck. If

you are

become more

in

By

will-

attitudes so that

you

self.

devoted to taking you through each chakra, and

its

related

we

transform our

tune with the universal forces which

move through

negative and positive archetypes.

us, enriching

where and how you are

you can release inappropriate

well and from the depths of your true

this

archetypes, and

are the reflectors of your basic beliefs about

to see

yourself,

atti-

healing our energetic state

our lives and letting us be the creative

spirits

we

truly are.

HOW TO USE THIS BOOK The next seven chapters

take you on a journey through the chakras and their related

archetypes, both negative and positive. in order, using

them

suggest that you work through

I

as stepping stones to your

growth and

spiritual

all

development. As

you ascend the ladder of awareness and take more personal responsibility you

self,

will find that

you have much more energy and

vitality, as

of them

for your-

well as a deeper

sense of self-empowerment.

Each chapter describes a types associated with

it,

particular chakra,

and the negative and positive arche-

together with two case studies, based on people

I

have worked

with, illustrating the types of situation people face as they live out their archetypes. I

then go on to give exercises that will help you to release old archetypal pat-

Also included

terns.

which

is

a meditation, intended to encourage peace and acceptance,

will help to release

with which you are not

This

is

any fears

that

may

arise

from seeing aspects of yourself

at ease.

followed by a series of affirmations to focus your mind and feelings into

a positive mode. Affirmations are useful for focusing your intention about what

want

in

your

life.

They help you

to release

any negative patterns you

may have

you

asso-

ciated with the archetype.

By working

through the chakras in

this

way, you have the opportunity to heal

any negative archetypes, which represent the areas

in

which you may be stuck

in


your

life

When

or your emotions.

these are healed,

Bear

in

mind

that

we

and from there

carry within our psyches the components of

is totally

through each chapter, you

fixed in one aspect of an archetype only.

may

find that

aspects of a particular archetype. If

such as the Martyr,

it

is

you

possible that

opposite, the Empress/Emperor.

you

this brings,

the positive

to the next stage.

and no one

types,

you can experience

empowerment

aspect of the archetype and the vitality and

move on

27

all

the arche-

As you look

you have both the negative and positive

feel

you

you are stuck

will also

in a negative archetype,

have many components of

Working through each chapter

its

in turn will enable

to discover the positive in yourself, as well as releasing the negative.

Working with

make

it.

sibility

It is

really an opportunity to

and empowerment.

the light of

By

the archetypes can be as

more

It is

fun or as serious as you wish to

measure your own degree of

your awareness alone that

is

vitality,

respon-

going to pull you up to

positive archetypes.

being loving and gentle with yourself you can avoid falling into either judge-

ment or

criticism. Self-acceptance

ing to develop and integrate our spirits,

much

and sustain us through

and love are the keys to growth. life

experiences in a

difficulties

way

We

are

all

learn-

that will strengthen our

and challenges. This

is

one means of work-

ing out old and negative patterns of behavior that have limited you in the past. Take

your time in moving through the archetypes and, above

all,

enjoy yourself.

THE ROOT CHAKRA Grounds

the spirit in the material world

DYSFUNCTIONAL ARCHETYPE: The Victim

FUNCTIONAL ARCHETYPE: The Mother

HOW THE ROOT CHAKRA FUNCTIONS The Root chakra channels

the earth's energy

up

time, helps ground our higher spiritual energies

center

we can

the people

on the material plane. Through

manifest our creativity in a physical form. The more

selves the greater chance

we would

we have

we ground

this

our-

of making our dreams real and developing into

become.

like to

same

to our higher centers and, at the

When we

lose our connection to the earth

we

cut ourselves off from the healing source of the Great Mother, the earth spirit herself,

and we lose our ground of being.

We

disconnect ourselves from our ability to

lovingly care for and nourish ourselves, as well as to provide the physical comforts

we need

to maintain a viable level of existence.

Grounding In The Material World The Root chakra archetypes ities

of maintaining

ticated lifestyle

we

life.

are linked with the material world

From

the

most primitive

levels of survival to the

are required to keep our feet firmly

master the fundamentals of survival or

and the physical

we become one

more

on the ground.

of

life's victims.

real-

sophis-

We

either

THE ROOT CHAKRA

This chapter looks

at the distinction

29

between the two Root chakra archetypes, the

Victim and the Mother, and offers constructive exercises for grounding your

your body so that self

spirit in

easier to maintain a healthy foundation for developing your-

it is

and refining higher energy

states, to stay

rooted in reality and maintain your con-

nection to your deep inner core. Without grounding, your grasp of the higher energies will

be tenuous and

towards earth and

it

will not

reality.

feelings, experience

be possible to sustain them without plummeting back

From

a healthy base within,

your body and relate to others.

What

Is

One of

the principles of grounding

Grounding?

According tor,

you can connect with your

to

and into our bodies."

"to get out of our heads

is

Alexander Lowen, the founder of Bioenergetic Therapy, and his men-

Wilhelm Reich,

through the

it is

life

of the body that

we

are able to experience

pleasure and pain, and connect with our feelings. Only by maintaining a direct and

conscious link with our physical body can

energy of our daily

lives.

we

discharge the accumulated emotional

Without grounding our energy

our emotions become stagnant and stuck, so that to

meet new challenges with vigor and

we become People as

spaced

vitality.

we

in

stay fixed and inflexible, unable

Without

this

who

live in the

connection with our body

and who we

"lost in space", unable to define our reality

out), are not

some form of expression,

realm of fantasy and conjecture

are.

(whom we might

describe

grounded. They are disconnected from their feelings and are

unable to deal with either their anger or their joy. They have a poor grasp on

and can

fail to

care for themselves properly. Grounding

support systems are properly maintained, and there

means

is shelter,

life,

that all the basic life

food,

money and

cloth-

ing for keeping our physical world intact.

this

When we

lose our grounding or contact with reality

manifests

is that it

as work, shelter

for us to

this archetypal state is to

which

is

eternal

sions based

on our highest good and

attachments to

life

being a certain

this place

greatest joy.

way and more

things

struggle.

and permanent, and bring back awareness

From

The way

reconnect with our inner being, that

body. This connection with the inner core grounds the puts us in touch with our feelings.

victims.

manage our lives and such

and other basic needs. Everything becomes a

The way through part of ourselves

becomes impossible

we become

spirit,

into our

and sensing our body

we

are able to

We

are then able to let

make

reahstic deci-

go of our

able to go with the flow to facihtate

CHAKRAS AND THKIR ARCHETYPES

30

we need

the changes trol

to

make.

When we

how our lives should unfold. One of the ways we can do this

we do

not

become stuck

release terror and fear,

is

are flexible

and

fluid

we

stop trying to con-

by consciously breathing and moving so

in either a rigid stance or a fixed attitude.

shame and

emotions which stand

guilt or other

that

This helps us in the

way of

our being truly grounded.

Dysfunctional Archetype: The Victim

Recognizing The Victim The lowest

level of energy

riences itself at the

and awareness

is

the Victim archetype.

mercy of outside forces which work against

awareness or a sense of responsibility for

circumstances.

its

The Victim expeit.

It

seldom has

The Victim

feels that

"something happened to me". Victims suffer because,

and

their fate is

it

appears to them,

all

choice has been taken from them

completely outside of their control. The Victim archetype

is

helpless state, totally reliant on the external world represented by a partner,

in

a

com-

panion, family, group of people or an organization, and disconnected from their inner

core of feelings. peration, with

The Victim's mind

is

stuck in a frozen state of fear, terror or des-

no sense of empowerment.

These are powerful emotions and they can cripple anyone who

They can be so overwhelming

as to break the connection

and our

is

spirit.

Being a Victim

paralyzing in

In order to survive, both emotionally

its

effect

and physically,

identifies

between our ground of being

on the psyche and the body. it is

essential to

feelings and to reconnect with the basic simplicity and goodness of

moment and type.

with them.

life.

ground these

Being

in the

trusting in life's processes helps to avoid falling into the Victim arche-

Using drugs, alcohol or suppressive medication only disconnects us even more

from the core of our feelings and us, to feel ourselves

whatever that

may

instincts. In

order to survive

we need

our wits about

rooted in the body, and to trust in our highest good unfolding,

be.

THE ROOT CHAKRA

31

Often circumstances combine to put Victims outside of the mainstream of either

hope or

and bankruptcy can easily

help. Events such as divorce, illness, death, prison

uproot and unground people and

we

If the life force is strong

head on, knowing however,

is

we

will

will survive

not strong or

The tragedy of

make them

this is the loss

of so

life's

challenges and meet them

and master our circumstances.

weakened, than

is

feel like a Victim.

engage with

we

can easily

much joy and goodness

fall

our

If

life force,

pray to victimhood.

to humanity.

When

peo-

ple are given the chance to live and thrive their creative resources flourish. This

evidenced by national or cultural groups again. This takes tenacity, willpower

who have been

uprooted and forced to

and courage, and often means making

is

start

sacrifices

and mistakes along the way. Ethnic groups such as Jews, Vietnamese, Africans, Chileans and Bosnians have

been uprooted from

Many

their native lands

and forced

of these peoples have both a strong

tain

them through upheaval and

and

creativity

back in

tragedy.

life

to start their lives

over in

new

places.

force and a strong spiritual will to sus-

They have learned

to the Ufe force in enterprising

to reconnect their energy

and productive ways, and many

have avoided becoming Victims. What they have made of

their lives

in part, depen-

is,

dent on their personal and spiritual attitudes, and their feelings of entitlement. If

come

they feel they have the right to survive and flourish they will all

life will

odds and succeed. be minimal and

sense of self worth.

on

to their children

When

it

If they are in

will

manage

to over-

doubt about their rights what they ask of

always be a struggle to regain their

lost roots

and

such negative attitudes remain suppressed, they get passed

and grandchildren

or third generation of immigrants

to

be made conscious.

who have

It is

often the second

to sort out the emotional realities of past

generations' traumas.

Emotional Victims Victims exist

at

many

levels.

Emotional Victims are people

re-establishing their lives after tragedy, separation or loss. bility,

who have

a difficult time

Because of

their vulnera-

they are susceptible to illness and plagued with problems which anyone in nor-

mal circumstances would and nearly impossible.

find easy to handle, but

which the Victim

finds daunting


32

Many

may

people

not be aware that they carry traces of the Victim mentality

within their personality. These roots can emerge in times of stress or

were

to stop

at the

and experience the feelings they have about

depths of the anger,

The

attitude

They

are at the

emotional

is

someone

that

else

is

responsible, or some-

power has been snatched away and

mercy of what others say and do

these feelings of blame,

they might be surprised

life

resentment and frustration they carry inside them.

fear,

which makes a Victim

thing has been done to them. Their

negated.

they

crisis. If

shame and

guilt

to them.

which create broken

their choices

Of

course,

it is

and severe

spirits

stress.

Often emotional Victims find themselves beset by events which appear to be

beyond

their control.

Sometimes

it

esteem and to prove

to collude with their lack of self

sonal

empowerment by

Yet,

it is

appears as though they were asking the universe that they

have

creating trying circumstances for them to cope with.

these very circumstances which challenge the Victim archetype to

empowered and

to help

them say

that they

It is

up

for themselves

and

to negotiate life

on

treated.

helps them

life. It

their terms.

also the willingness to reframe life's circumstances into opportunity, rather

than loss, which helps people rise above victimhood. Nearly everyone

is

given the

opportunity to face such challenges with their health, finances or relationships

do we grow emotionally and mature

point in their lives, for

how

integrated people?

through tackling these

into wise

It is

else

difficult

into

circumstances that

at

some

whole and

we develop

and compassionate beings.

Beginning

to

Mobility

the

is

change the Victim mentality key

to understanding the

Victim mentality and the Root chakra gov-

erns our capacity to mobilize our body. Victims trepidation and fear, or they feet

become

have had enough of this way of being

This transforms them into spiritual warriors capable of dealing with to stand

or no per-

little

down where

they belong.

release our feelings so that

The Victim

move

we

move

either too slowly, with great

too quickly and compulsively, not putting their

The message

the

body gives us

is

to experience

can be free and aware of the ground under our

also needs to be helped to regain a sense of choice.

perhaps more important, thing

is

to

change the idea

that the

Victim

The is at

feet.

other,

the

and

and

mercy

THE ROOT CHAKRA

of Other people or a situation.

ments about

their Hves, they

into the life force, thus being

more than anything, helps

By

33

reframing the Victim's thoughts into positive

can turn their energy around and begin to release

empowered

to freely

choose what

the Victim archetype transform

is

it

state-

back

best for them. This,

itself.

MOVING ON FROM THE VICTIM ARCHETYPE Taking Responsibility For Yourself You can change your archetype when you ideas.

From here, anyone with

When we acknowledge

We

all

result of

have choices

how we

feel

the truth about our lives

can become Victims or us about our

how we

We

feel that all

life's

we

does not give us what

life are

often the

feel to attract the love

we

feel

we

deserve

we

attempt to understand what these obstacles have to

from taking responsibility

regain our sense of choice and can

It is

to learn

for

where we are and

move forward

and grow through

always worth looking back

learned about ourselves and

in life.

difficult or trying cir-

from

life

it.

This

at

is

any situation and asking what

a positive

way of

freeing our-

from victimhood.

selves

The

thing to do in any situation where you feel like a Victim

first

about your feelings. This simple-sounding, yet

sion and begins your process towards

about

our power.

can, however, take time to release the grief, sadness and anger asso-

It

ciated with change.

est

life

It is

have the opportunity

cumstances.

we

we can

journey.

own

automatically

how worthy we

about ourselves, and

When

we

The where, when and how of

in our lives.

and good fortune we need.

tell

take responsibility for your attitudes and

a Victim mentality can begin to feel they have a chance.

how you

tivity in

encing

your

loss,

are feeling

life.

you begin

You may

the truth about

what you

joy to be expressed.

to liberate yourself

feel. It is

is

the

to

be hon-

you from delu-

empowerment. When you can

be caught in a

pain or separation. This

difficult task, frees

is

tell

the truth

from the burden of nega-

difficult situation

where you are experi-

moment when you need

to tell yourself

from here you allow sadness, anger, anxiety or


34

Exercise 1

Recall an experience in your

when something happened

time

where you

life

to

would be a

a Victim. This

felt like

you which was out of your control and

left

you

feeling hurt or unsure of yourself.

2 What are your feelings about

this situation

grieving? Are you willing to this situation?

Be

tell

now? Are you

yourself more about

angry, enraged, sad,

how you

feel regarding

willing to take the lid off your feelings and experience

them

as they are.

3 Look

at

other people and situations in your

life that

have made you

were a Victim. In your mind's eye withdraw the energy you have invested take your ...

is ...

power back

and

4 As you take

into yourself.

The way you do

freely chose to release

I

that is to say:

though you

feel as

them and

in

"What

I

feel

about

myself from these negative feelings."

responsibility for the people and situations in your life think about

what your projections were. You can do

this

by identifying the themes running

through your story and see that what looks like blame

someone or a

situation so that

may be your

projection into

you could experience an underlying

attitude

you

had about yourself. For instance, you

may

say that someone didn't love you enough or respect

you enough. To own your projection part of

you

it

that didn't love yourself

becomes necessary

to say that there

was a

enough or respect yourself enough. By pro-

we make them responsible for fulfilling our expecour projections, we can heal that part of ourselves which is

jecting our attitudes onto others tations.

By

looking

at

unloved and neglected. Learning to love yourself through

empowers you and gives you Are you willing your feelings? (This

to is

the

move on

freedom to

to

situations

be yourself.

do a meditation

to help

you release more of

an important question. If you are not willing to release your

feelings please take responsibility for this. Either

you have a choice.)

difficult

way

it

will

empower you

to

know

THE ROOT CHAKRA

35

The Myth Of The Victim Archetype The myth

sections in each chapter will help

you

to identify

some of

the themes run-

ning through the various archetypes and in turn enable you to identify some of your

own

which may be attached

attitudes

If

you look

at

your

to these archetypes.

tributed to

your experience of victimhood you

aware of

how

this

attitudes to sacrifice

happened

in

Is

situations

which have con-

begin to see patterns that there

make you

a connection between your

and suffering and your present experience? Such

attitudes

may

family, your parents, early education or

and are worth examining because they form the matrix of emotional energy

upon which

we

may

your Ufe.

come from myths you have held about your religion

and

attitudes surrounding the people

all

your relationships are based.

feel that others

The way

to

what are your

owe

us something or

change

we

We can fall into the Victim archetype when feel

we owe

attitudes like these is simple.

beliefs about the following.

Are you

more than they

deserve.

You begin by asking

yourself

others

entitled to:

Happiness? Respect? Health? (includes your feelings about beauty, fitness and aging.)

Love?

Money? Friendship?

Success?

Do you If

feel supported in

you

feel

having what you want in

and reframe those which do not support your in the it is

way

desires.

These negative

of you having what you want and deserve. To

important that you believe you are entitled to

you can

life?

any negativity about these things, examine your attitudes carefully

fully enjoy

it.

all

the

empower

good

life

attitudes stand

yourself in

life,

can offer and that

CHAKRAS ANP TUIIR ARCHETYPES

36

MEDITATION or

Sit

lie

where you can

a comfortable position

in

incense and

a candle

light

you

if

like,

relax

and be

at ease.

Burn

to cleanse the energy around you and

help you relax your nnind. Close your eyes and take a

deep

breath. Release

any tension from your neck and shoulders as you release your breath by breath-

through your nose and out from your mouth, releasing your jaw as you

ing in

Go

breathe out.

through your body and release tension wherever you find

It

may be lodged

It

may be

the back of your neck, behind your eyes or

at

your back, hips or

in

ankles.

in

your throat.

Take your time to breathe deeply and

go of your tension.

let

As you continue to breathe deeply remember

made you

feel like a Victim.

yourself or

become

As you see

this

a situation or a person

Take one incident at a time.

Do

person or situation

hatred, anger, fear or grief, or

humorous now and

your mind's eye ask yourself what you

in

come

you could

realize that

to the surface. You

may experience

actually find the situation

you have released your negative

Now

/

acknowledge

I

am

I

know

that

in

about

my

my

feelings

I

life.

about

.

.

.

will

and this

I

life.

I

now

live in

these emotions

is

as

my

life

has

all

like

smoke. Trust

been for your good.

this

free

I

I

this experi-

from negative emotions

peace, joy and serenity, and

I

hope the person

well.

Visualize the negative feelings passing out of

the ether

am free. am now away my power again.

situation.

consciously be sure to never give

look forward to facing I

into

release them.

person or

have grown and developed wisdom from having had

this situation.

who caused

I

come

say to yourself

free of negative thoughts about

charge of

ence

my

or person

feelings already

Consciously deepen your breathing as you allow your feelings to consciousness.

who

not overwhelm

dismayed, believing bad things are always happening to you.

are feeling. Allow your feelings to

in

it.

energy

will

your body and being released

be recycled and that

into

this learning

THE ROOT CHAKRA

Now

visualize that

you,

bless

in

/

I

person or

you and

order to

feel

forgive you,

you and

Imagine that the place

space waiting to be

been lodged

in

plexus. Release

you

free."

Say to whonnever you see:

Repeat

this as

many times

I

you where you stored the hurt

in

with

filled

your heart or it

light

and

beautiful colors.

you need to

is

The

now

an empty

pain

may have

your shoulder blades, your hips or your solar

in

with your breath. See the colors

filling this

empty

space, and

been constricted

tight.

Colors carry energy and is

forgive

set you free.

bringing ease and comfort into that part of you which has

and

as

"I

the impact of these words.

bless

I

set

I

situation.

37

signify

emotional

the universal healing colon turquoise

peace, pink

and red

is

is

for

mother

love,

yellow

qualities. Violet

the color of

is

is

is

for the

creativity,

for intelligence, orange

spirit,

green is

is

silver

for

for vitality

for passion. Flood the area of your pain with these colors. You

wish to add gold or

blue

may

to the richness these colors bring you. Acknowledge

to yourself that even though you did not

like

or approve of what happened

to you, you are stronger and wiser for having been through this experience

your

life.

son you

Without are.

this

When

experience you would not have developed

you allow yourself to do

this,

which linked you to the Victim archetype. Use feel

in

into the per-

you begin healing the wounds this

meditation any time you

you are a Victim.

Vitality If

you have been experiencing yourself

as a Victim,

you may have also found you

were either physically immobilized or hyperactive for some time.

you are a Victim you not grounded.

It

are

seldom

helps to start

at

When you

ease and free of tension in your body

feel that

—you

are

moving easily and gently to get your energy flowing

again and re-establish your grounding.

It is

important, as well, to choose to do some-

thing which will give you pleasure and not impose punishment or strain.

probably given yourself enough of that already.

You have


38

You may want

to

do something

as simple as going for a

walk down the

street or

a major expedition into the wilderness. Think about what you enjoy doing and then

go

for

Give yourself a goal

it.

you can give yourself the

that is attainable so that

pleasure of achieving something you truly want. Here are

Go

for a

some

suggestions.

walk

Dance Work-out

Swim Play tennis or squash

Jog

Do yoga Have

or aerobics

a massage or

some form of body therapy which

is

gentle and

non-intrusive

Go camping Do some

gardening

Practice Tai Chi

Take a holiday

to a place

Whatever you do, be good tant if

you have

self, just

felt like

you have always wished

to yourself

to visit

and persevere with your

activity. It is

impor-

a Victim to re-establish the flow of energy. Don't push your-

be encouraged to get out and move.

Some

of the activities

I

have suggested

may seem

strenuous to you. The more

aggression and anger you have about your situation as a Victim the better the energy pass out of your system.

Once you have

yourself you will feel better. However,

if

it is

to let

started to take responsibility for

you have been moving too

not had an opportunity to experience your feelings you

may

fast

feel tired

and have

and want

slow down. Honor your body and give your emotions the space they deserve.

to

THE ROOT CHAKRA

39

Empowerment Affirmations can help you refirame your attitudes about yourself and any situation in

which you have

As you

victimized.

felt

integrate their positive

message

into your

consciousness they will help you feel empowered. This means that you can take charge of your

life.

You begin

to take

back some or

all

start to

of the power you invested

in this situation.

You can

down

write

the affirmations several times a day,

tell

them

to yourself

while you are driving to and from work, or say them to yourself in front of a mirror.

Let the energy of their positive force work to heal you.

I

am

a child of the universe and I

I affirm that I

I

am

feel

am

strong

to

always loved and protected.

handle any situation.

thankful for this opportunity to express myself and grow. Right

good about

me

to

now

my growth and

development. This situation has

be free and happy with myself

honor myself at

all times. I

am now

doing the very best for myself that I

possibly can.

I release all negative feelings that hold

me back from

being happy and

free.

I forgive

I

and

and

release the past

choose the present and fill

I bless all those

it

here

live in the

with fun, joy

who have helped me

and

realize

my

and now.

light.

worth along the path of

light.

The universe

I

myself.

The universe supports taught

I

and able

am

is

a safe and benign place for

protected and guided. I

know

I trust in the good. I allow

it

me

that I belong.

to enter

my

life.

to be. I

am

always


40

who

am and how my

/

take responsibility for

I

am

I

honor my need for gentleness, care and consideration.

I

am

safe. I

I

life is.

honor my need for kindness, love and

not a Victim.

I

am on

the path of light which

respect.

rich in personal

is

experience.

I

love

and honor who

I

am.

I

am

thankful for

my

life.

Case Histories

India was a middle-aged

woman from

over by a military dictatorship

a South

when she was

a

American country taken

young mother. She and her

husband were rounded up by military police and separated, and she was put into the squalor of an over-filled prison with minimal

facilities.

She

languished in prison for several months. She was badly tortured and for

day

weeks to

in solitary confinement.

keep her

left

She would sing for several hours every

sanity.

One day without any

reason she was released. She eventually found her

children but did not see her husband for

many

years.

She gathered her

courage and, with help, came to Europe. She found employment as a teacher and educated her children. At the age of 52 she suddenly decided to

embark on a course of fulfill

training as a

homeopath which would allow her

her inquisitive mind and probing nature. She said that she

felt privi-

leged to be able to choose what she wanted to do at this point in her

She was happy her

life

to

life.

had turned out so well and that her children had the

opportunity to develop into the people she had hoped they could become.

Anyone who met

Inelia noticed her

winning smile and happy

demeanor. She was never willing to be a Victim even through the most horrible of times

and her

story that while she

faith in life

was alone

remained unshakable. She told a

in a prison cell she

saw an angel appear

THE ROOT CHAKRA

before her. She said

it

was luminescent and

would be released and have her

41

exquisite.

It

told her that she

before her again. She has always

life

profound sense of gratitude for the opportunity to rebuild her Sadly, Inelia died recently.

For these

friends.

was a shining example of

a

life.

She was surrounded by a group of

women knowing

felt

women

her was a source of inspiration. She

the ability of the

human

spirit to

transcend

difficulties.

Paul

now in his early fifties, was an abused child from a dysfunctional home. He was battered and neglected by his parents, who acted out their own unhappiness and frustration on him. He reahzed there was a larger Paul,

world than the narrow and bleak one his family inhabited, and he was deter-

mined

to leave as

home and

When

soon as he could.

When

he was 14 he ran away from

hitched rides around Europe, Uving on practically no money.

he had saved some money he

left for India.

He

ashram for eight years, studying and growing. He wanted to help others

and came back

tually settled in a small

to the

West

stayed in an to

do something

to train in osteopathy.

town where he knew a few people and

He

even-

started his

practice.

He married and started a family, and is now a stable and valuable member of his community. He is also pleased his life turned into something positive. He admits that while he was in India he prayed constantly for happiness, tivity. It

and he worked hard

to free himself of his hatred

and nega-

took him a long time to find himself, but once he did he never

looked back on his youth with anything but thanks that he had an opportunity to

grow and develop. He could

easily

have remained a Victim of abu-

sive parents but chose instead to find the courage to ask for

and

to

about

do the work life.

that

was required

to

make him

more from

life

positive and affirmative

CHAKRAS AND

42

ARCHETYPES

Till IR

Functional Archetype: The Mother

Recognizing The Mother As we complete

archetype of the Root Chakra ish

and look

Of

all

damental

on the Victim, we bring our attention

the section

—

The Mother

represents our ability to nour-

and vigilance.

after the life force within us with care, sensitivity

the archetypes, the in

the Mother.

Mother

is

the

one we understand the

our relationship with ourselves and with

our being that

it

She

life.

is

understanding of ourselves as individuals

archetype in a

new

we

we

within ourselves

opment, for she teaches us

how

and honor

to take care of ourselves

is

our capacity to love; love ourselves, love

all

and

people, love

Mother within ourselves we stop projecting our needs on integrate her into our lives so that

we

wounded, or abused

the love within ourselves

As

Mother

and

call

to respect

that

life.

we

our needs.

can develop

As we develop

the

world around us and

to the

in the process of living

upon the Mother

knowledge of what and who

to our happiness

that part of

are able to look after ourselves.

the superficial and unsavory from what

what contributes

lives.

essential to our devel-

She helps us integrate the feminine aspects of our personality so

in the

fun-

so deeply rooted in

will also see the

learn to love

ourselves the Mother represents. Integrating this archetype

grounded

is

light.

As we become whole

are

She

best.

impossible to detach ourselves from her influence in our

is

we develop an

When we

to the positive

is

is

truly

our

to help us heal.

good

for us

good

we

for us,

we can find As we become

lives,

start to differentiate

what sustains us and

and well-being.

Our own good Mother The Mother archetype

also assists us in healing the

ing and helps us find love within ourselves. If our

psychologically and spiritually to develop a ing ourselves what

we

we

need. This

life

of

makes our own

wounds from inadequate

parent-

own mother was unable to grow her own we can help her by giv-

lives richer

and more

fulfilling as

stop projecting our needs on to her, or substitutes for her, to look after us and

make

us right.

As

this

archetype develops in us

we become

our

own good

Mothers.

THE ROOT CHAKRA

Recently a friend of mine, pregnant for the intervention

which was life-saving for her unborn

the anesthesia

45

time,

first

child.

had

undergo surgical

to

She worried about the

would have on her child and spent several days beforehand

her child in meditation. She assured

it

operation for the baby's sake and that instincts to soothe

and care for her

was consciously choosing

that she

would be

all

child.

well.

to

effects

talking to

have

this

She drew on her motherly

She integrated the primal Mother arche-

type within herself to assure her baby that they were both going to be safe.

When we

are dependent on others to provide us with our nurturing we are not own Mother archetype to flourish. There are many adults emotionally childhood, who have yet to grow up and resource their own internal capac-

allowing our arrested in ity to

look after themselves. They

still

expect that someone will answer the deep

needs of their undernourished self by taking over the role which was incomplete in their lives. Basically, the role of

ated in our formative years. ily history to

It

psychotherapy

is

to release the

who

helps everyone

is

traumas and hurt cre-

willing to delve into their fam-

cleanse the pain and release the hurt of the past.

It

helps create a strong

and viable Mother archetype.

The Earth Mother The Mother

is

deeply rooted in earth energy. As Earth Mother she provides the good-

ness and sustenance

we need

to thrive

and grow. She looks

always able to provide for our needs. As with

on

all

mothers,

after us, feeds us

we know

that

we

and

is

can count

her.

We

carry the template of this archetype within us.

all

connected from the source of

this energy,

linked to the Mother archetype.

mentals of care and nurturing lenges with clarity and focus.

we

As we look

When we

lose our grounding, after ourselves

are Victims, dis-

which

is

so deeply

and provide the funda-

we become more mature and able to meet life's chalWhen we are our own good Mother we know our

body's limitations, our emotional strength and fragility and our mental ability to think clearly.

When we

and

ally

are our

own good Mother we know where we

life, liter-

figuratively.

Mothers are synonymous with our roots in safe.

stand in

When

know how

life,

and

life

becomes simple when we reconnect

the earth and the Mother archetype within. She helps us be well and

things

to

become complex or out of balance

mother ourselves. This

may mean

in our fives

it is

to

feel

important to

doing simple things which comfort and


44

sustain us. For instance,

cleaning

my home,

whenever

I

feel unsettled or

gardening or cooking. This

friend, during a difficult time in her life,

is

overwhelmed by change

my way

I

enjoy

of keeping chaos away.

A man know

enjoyed making soups.

I

A

makes

pieces of furniture, another one tinkers on his car for hours. These activities are grounding and simple and give comfort. Mothers

know what

heals and soothes. Tapping into

archetype allows us to be good Mothers to ourselves

this

This

way we

sustenance If

light the

we

we have

flame of our

own

in

ways which

stabilize us.

inner hearth and give ourselves the spiritual

need.

ventured far from our roots the Mother archetype will be cut off from

the vital supply of love and energy she needs to thrive. This can leave us confused

and with a mistaken sense of

become

chaotic,

A function

we

We

can lose our ground of being and

life

can

needed to keep

bal-

which drains and depletes our energy.

of the Mother archetype

ance and harmony loved.

identity.

As mothers

in

to

is

be aware of what

our lives and to see that

are expected to tune into

we

is

are nourished, well cared for and

and respond

to the

we need

too are expected to tune into ourselves and listen to what

maintain harmony. The more type the healthier

we can draw upon

we become. Loving and

this function

needs of their child, in order to

of the Mother arche-

caring for ourselves then becomes natural.

DEVELOPING THE MOTHER Taking Responsibility For Yourself One

of the ways to take responsibility for yourself

is

This means that you are capable of nurturing yourself feel safe

that

you can be healthy and happy. This means, take care of your physical needs.

You

it

after

your needs.

and know what you need

to

and secure.

Being your own good Mother suggests

need

by looking

The

better

and give yourself comfort, the

less

at

you

you are able

to

manage your

life

so that

a practical level, that you eat well and are able to feed yourself, rest

when you

dependent you are on others to mother you.

will learn to create a stable base within yourself

from which

world; a safe haven within, free from interference, opposition or

to

move

stress.

out into the

Mothering and

nourishing yourself means understanding what you need and letting yourself have the best of your ability. This

means knowing what

to do, for

it,

to

example, when you are

THE ROOT CHAKRA

Stressed

about

and

tired,

and need

how you spend your

to replenish

your energy.

whom

time and

45

also

It

you choose as

means being discerning

friends.

Exercise 1 Recall an experience

when you

felt

whatever reason, whether you were

you were unable

ill,

Did you

feel better for

someone

stability.

to recuperate?

Was it their willingness to stick by you Did you know that you had to look after yourself?

3 Can you give yourself time off from the

you know when you need self

Were you

and understanding with yourself? Did your family or friends give you the

support you needed? better?

did you feel about

else's care?

2 Can you remember how you got the support you needed patient

How

For

you needed the

tired or emotionally upset,

help of someone else to regain your strength and this situation?

to look after yourself.

stress

and relaxation?

rest

and

strain in

helped you get

that

your

Do you know how

life

now? Do

to protect your-

from the pressures of work or relationships which are fraught?

4 Look

at the

people in your

you when you need

are in

life

Do you feel you could call on them to assist Do you feel entitled to ask for help when you

now.

need of help?

it?

5 Are you willing to take responsibility for yourself to the best of your ability? Are

you willing

to look after

6 Can you build

How Reflect

your

in the care

can you change your

own

physical and emotional needs?

and nurturing you need for yourself life to

in

your

life

now?

include your needs in your daily routine?

on how you can best be your own good Mother.

The Myth Of The Mother Archetype Look

at the

myths which surround the Mother archetype and see

themes correspond

to

your

life.

You have

if

any of these

the ability to transform any ideas about

yourself which do not enhance or support you.


46

Many in

people believe they need someone to look after them or do things for them

order to survive.

gratitication,

learn to

terms of our ability to

become

we have

This means the illusions

be there for their needs and

know what we

in

need of care.

self sufficient, both physically

and emotion-

about being mothered become redefined in

need. If

we

are waiting for others to look after

us what they think we need, we create a web of dependency which

us, or to tell

enmeshes us and suppresses our experiencing

to

and they experience themselves as a helpless child

As we mature we ally.

They expect other people

vital

growth process. This denies us the pleasure of

empowerment by being

able to look after ourselves. Are you willing to

examine your

attitudes with regard to:

Nurturing?

Taking care of yourself? Preparing your

own food?

Cleaning your home?

Looking

after

your belongings?

Providing for your emotional needs?

Giving yourself the

Asking others

rest

and relaxation you need?

for help?

Accepting the care and love others offer graciously without dependency?

Being able

to separate yourself

from highly dependent relationships which

drain and deplete you?

With time and patience serves

all

it

is

possible to create a healthy

grounding so that you can create a healthy and happy the trust

Mother archetype which

your needs. This archetype can sustain you and give you help to find your

you need

to thrive

and look

after yourself.

life. It

will help

you

to find

I

I

THE ROOT CHAKRA

47

MEDITATION Sit in

Bum

a comfortable position.

incense or aromatic

take several deep breaths, begin to relax. if

you could have

all

your

physical

Now

oils

visualize

if

you

like.

As you

how you would

and emotional needs met so that you

contented and happy See yourself as snug, happy and very

feel felt

safe.

Imagine that you are loved, happy and surrounded by the people you love the most,

who

contribute to your sense of well-being and belonging.

Take a deep breath and cherished and loved, and

know all

is

that you are safe and secure. Feel that you are well

your world. Stop worrying about

in

begin to trust that you are supported is

taken care of and you

feel free

ing

invest

your energy into your

and developing

and

into a

person

Enjoy the ease which

grit.

you are aware that you are matur-

can handle responsibility with both grace

comes from

energy into yourself You are worth

it.

feeling this

You can

let

desire.

She helps you to

life

stay

investment of love and

go of the past and experi-

ence that you have a Mother within you which looks

your

made

future.

healing,

who

and

nourishing ways. Everything

of the burdens and worries that have

you unsure and uncertain about your

As you

in positive,

life

after

your needs and

grounded when you need to and she helps keep

simple and easy Trust her and appreciate that she

of you. As you respect and honor her within yourself she

is

will

a

growing part

look after and

protect you.

Now

visualize a color

choose

pink,

which

attracts you. Let

you

feel

your

life;

it

is

to soothe and heal your worries and anxieties. You can

the color of mother love, or choose another color which

add to your growing sense of comfort and the protection

towards yourself Enjoy the glow which comes from free,

even momentarily from anxiety and

feeling

happy with

stress.

Vitality This exercise opens the Root chakra and hfe force. At the most physical level

it

is

designed to help you awaken your basic

involves supporting the base of your spine

and taking the tension off your lower back.


48

Begin by lying

in a

semi-supine position with a 3-inch book under the base of

your skull and place your

feet

on the ground with your knees up. Let your hands

on your pelvis with your elbows as stretches

far

away from one another

your spine and lengthens your back.

If

you can

as possible. This

rest in this position for

imately 20 minutes you will release the tension of supporting your body

This exercise supports your back and allows you to

working hard, helps you

daily, particularly after

your energy

in a

very gentle and easy way.

and removes blocks of tension

lighter

and allows the body to time, feel

it

and restore

rest

recharges your

in

vitality. It

It

let

rest

approx-

the time.

all

go of tension. Doing

feel better in yourself.

It

this

also grounds

enables you to experience yourself as

your back. This

itself. It is

a

is

an exercise

way of relaxing

in

non-doing,

and, at the

same

allows you to take care of your body and also to

good.

Empowerment Without a strong Mother archetype you will archetype

is

the

you need

and stumble through

life.

of yourself. Say the following affirmations in

to take care

most loving and caring way you can, respecting

that

you are both the child and

the mother.

my

I

love and protect

I

take care of myself at

I

trust

I

look after

I

nourish

I

affirm that

all

I

inner child.

all

times.

myself to know what

my

my

is

body, mind and

I

for

needs in the best

am

my

way

spirit

highest good and greatest joy.

I

can.

with love and tenderness.

able to take responsibility for looking after myself in

ways.

honor the Mother

I listen to

in

me which knows what

myself and honor

all

This

growth and development, and helps give you

the foundation for your

the awareness

falter

my

needs.

is

best for

me

at all times.

THE ROOT CHAKRA

I trust

I

that

my

all

come

into

to

needs can be met in a loving and respectful way.

my am

know

I

take time to care for myself.

I

for love

and abundance

life.

I

that

way

doubts and fears which block the

release

49

worth giving myself the things

need.

I

Case Histories Bridget" Bridget

is

a successful business

woman

in her early forties.

She

is

strong-

willed and assertive, but has also suffered from bouts of depression. She felt

a failure as a

woman

because she couldn't maintain an intimate

rela-

tionship and she deeply longed to have children.

She worked

in therapy for several years to

energy and understand herself ally

open

to her feelings

better.

and her

ground her emotional

She became

real self.

softer

She was able

and more emotionto experience her

longing for love and emotional fulfillment.

At a

certain point in her therapy she decided to take a holiday in the

Mediterranean and planned to swim with dolphins. This experience completely

changed her

The sea

life.

is

the

mother of us

all

and she had the

opportunity to reconnect with her Mother archetype. Through her experi-

ence with the dolphins she became clear that raising a child was essential to her. This longing

within her, and she self.

was felt

partly her

way of

healing the

prepared to take on the

She knew she had a large reserve of love

girl

and her

financial rewards

life

to sell her business,

life

new

and success she had accumulated

and

was transformed, and

woman. She adopted

took on a totally

by her-

to offer a child.

She returned from her holiday and made plans

Vietnamese

child

full responsibility

she applied to adopt a child. Within months her

she became a joyful and radiant

wounded

a five-year-old

perspective. All the in her

work had never

provided her with the level of happiness or satisfaction she gained

in

being

CHAKRAS AND THKIR ARCHHTYPES

50

a mother. She continued therapy to work through her emotional problems

and

to

make

awakened

many

sure she did not project

the

them onto her

She had

child.

Mother archetype within herself which had

years and, in doing so, she

Victim a chance for

new

was able

laid

to heal herself

clearly

dormant

for

and give another

life.

Jonathan Jonathan was 26 when circumstances forced him to acknowledge the

Mother archetype child

up

His wife became very

was born and she was unable

forced to child

in himself.

become both

was only

a few

father

to look after their children.

and mother to

his job,

his children.

second

He was

The younger to give

baby properly. Instead, he got permission

work where he looked

helped him, as did his mother and several

manage

after their

months old when he thought he might have

his job to look after the

bring the baby into

ill

after

it.

women

The women friends.

He

to

in his office

struggled to

which required careful planning and pre-

cision skills, and looking after the constant needs of his family. In the

evening when he got home, instead of relaxing, he was forced to attend

to

organizing meals and seeing that the children were looked after before see-

own needs. At times he felt he was two people trying to fulfill these roles. He also had the additional burden of his wife's illness. He stayed grounded throughout the ordeal and always attended to what ing to his

needed doing. At times when he was highly stressed he employed someone to

look after the children so he could get out to the

felt this

hills for

a walk.

He

helped him rebalance his energy and give him focus. This was his

connection with Mother Earth.

His wife eventually recovered and resumed her function of looking after the children. cial relationship

His family

is

now

thriving and his children have a spe-

with their dad. They love hearing the story about

how

he

played mother to them for several months. At some unconscious level they

know how deeply he

cherishes them.

THE SACRAE CHAKRA Pleasure, well-being, sexuality and abundance

DYSFUNCTIONAL ARCHETYPE: The Martyr

FUNCTIONAL ARCHETYPE: The Empress/Emperor

HOW THE SACRAL CHAKRA FUNCTIONS The Sacral

cheikra governs our sense of taste

ical levels as

and

appetite. This

apphes

well as the more spiritual sense of loving and enjoying

to the

life.

Our

physwell-

being, our sense of sexuality and our permission to give ourselves prosperity and

abundance are It is

through

all

this

focused in

this

chakra which

is

located in the center of our belly.

chakra that our sense of boundsiry becomes developed and

able to understand what will enhance and enrich our ate life

keep us healthy, are

this center

They form

the Sacral chakra are the Martyr

the polarity of suffering and sacrifice

piness and contentment on the other.

quishes responsibility for

its

and

is

influenced by

fluid

and moving

lets its

and the Empress/Emperor.

on the one hand, and pleasure, hap-

The Martyr archetype

well-being.

and looks for pleasure

fulfillment

which when

related.

The archetypes of

life

From

and move freely into the material world. The Sacral chakra

the element of water and as a result our emotions,

of

life.

we are we cre-

is

unhappy and

The Empress/Emperor enjoys

in everything.

The Martyr disowns

its

the

relin-

abundance

entitlement to

energy dissipate by always seeking approval and helping others.

The Empress/Emperor, on

the other hand, enjoys itself

and always has a good time,


52

whatever

it

does.

It

enjoys everything

in life. All things serve to

type's love of pleasure and well-being.

or is

enough money and

The Martyr

enhance

struggles to have

this arche-

enough energy

often depleted and exhausted, while the Empress/Emperor

is

overflowing with an abundance of energy for the activities

it

loves to do.

Dysfunctional Archetype: The Martyr

Recognizing The Martyr The Martyr archetype does Victim, but

it

is

not strong enough in

The Martyr's to shift

its

life is full

many

Martyr

is

It is

energy

its

empowered or

sense of self to be

its

of suffering.

negative attitudes and

suffers over the tion, the

take a greater degree of responsibility for itself than the

unable to

is

make

often stale and stagnant.

things that happen in the course of

unable to liberate

create the joy and happiness

it

its

life.

for years, unable to

does not

change

Whatever the

situa-

life

and

so desperately desires.

which deplete

in situations

for the sake of others. It

The Martyr

heavily negative attitudes towards

This archetype feels helpless to do anything to change

enmeshed and involved

vitalized.

the necessary changes

its life

its

feel entitled to personal

patterns.

The Martyr

its

situation. It stays

well-being, and often suffers

happiness and can suffer

relinquishes

its

claim to hap-

piness in order to maintain peace, stability and balance for others. This can be at the

detriment of

Many

its

own

mental and emotional health and physical well-being.

times the Martyr feels

it

is

doing the right thing for children, spouse or

parents by living an incomplete and unfulfilled its

own

creativity

be changed.

It is

and personal well-being. tragic to

every denial of true itself for

self.

It

life,

and suffering

at the

expense of

feels the situation is hopeless or can't

watch the Martyr's personal happiness drain away with

This can

make

it

embittered and angry

when

those

it

sacrifices

leave or pass away.

Sacrifice best describes the nature of this archetype.

of guilt about

it

as the Martyr feels

it

There

deserves the suffering

it

is

also a deep sense

has imposed on

itself.

I

THE SACRAL CHAKRA

S3

Collusion with the Martyr It is,

in

many ways, more

Victim. This ple to give

Martyr

difficult to treat a

in a therapeutic situation than a

because our culture validates sacrifice and sometimes encourages peo-

is

up

their

dreams for the sake of

Nothing will disempower a per-

others.

son quicker than feeling they must give up their dreams for someone else's happiness.

Whether it

it is

done for approval or because of a desire

diminishes a person

Many the risks

when

to

be loved and looked

which

will transform

its life.

Families and friends unconsciously encourage

tasks of looking after others so that they are free of the

its

responsibility of having to

do

While the Victim knows

it.

must do something

it

to

change

its

can endure for years without making fundamental changes in

The Martyr accepts

others

end,

it

more of

who

is its

a situation without

a claim to happiness.

share the

same

close

No

one

when

down

likes to feel others

good

its life

itself.

will

empower

thing. This, in the

to the Martyr's children or other people guilt are acted out in a

have sacrificed for them or

The Martyr has

the ability to

exactly what the Martyr

would never

The Martyr gives up

it

power

lie in

its

by trying

to

manipulating others to do as

win the love

it

was not

piness nor vitality

willing to start

making the changes

It

aids

which negate

its

and abets

its

own

is

that

it

does. This

is,

learns early in

receiving. This, of course,

and only through consciously seeing

work. The underlying theme with the Martyr

it

The Martyr

sets the pattern for life is it

as though

their feelings or desires,

well-being and expects others to do

controls others and appears to be right.

life to sacrifice itself

It is

others feel

do.

responsibility for

the same. Its strength and

how

wrong by openly expressing

punishing

that they are

make

they express their feelings about what they wish to do.

others have done something

ing love.

Martyr

does, however, receive appreciation from

Resentment runs deep, as blame and

to.

indebted and must sacrifice in return.

in effect,

blocks

only reward.

and nasty cycle.

guilty

It

making the changes which

attitudes about suffering being a

This insidious pattern gets passed it is

situation, the

its life. It

co-dependent relationships and never seems to really enjoy

force, creates

or give

after,

lives.

people collude with the Martyr to carry on suffering rather than to take

the Martyr to continue

it

own

they do not choose to live their

that

it

it

has neither hap-

needs to make

its life

doesn't feel worthy of receiv-

devaluation by re-enforcing patterns of behavior

growth and happiness.


54

Making a

When we acknowledge we

want, then

are

can be shifted. block in the

that

making a

it

is

We

all

step towards our

When we

good or worth suffering

to pleasure

our families.

could

It

come

who gave up an opportunity for growth and we collude in saying that life isn't

The reason

the risk of change.

when we choose

in

which

accept the Martyr's attitude

way of making

a

is

empowerment. The Martyr archetype

have patterns of martyrdom

form of a parent, aunt or cousin

change.

we

our right to have a choice to be and do what

takes a wilHngness to look deeply at the emotional issues

It

happiness.

its

empowerment

step towards

it

special.

The choice

to release this archetype

and happiness when we

let

change

the Martyr doesn't to

be happy

is

that

its

available to us

all

from our consciousness.

go of our suffering and

We

is

open the path

pain.

MOVING ON FROM THE MARTYR Taking Responsibility For Yourself The

position of the Martyr can be stuck and entrenched. This

truly believes

it is

and well-being.

It

doing the right thing for thinks sacrifice

is

good

itself

even

at the

is

because the Martyr

expense of

its

for the self. This leaves a large residue of

anger and resentment for everyone to deal with and invites contempt and

Through It

sacrifice the

Martyr hides

gets caught in rescuing

ativity,

inability or unwillingness to

and fixing other people's

sexuality and health to

sacrifice in return

its

do

this.

lives, often

Perhaps worst of

from others as acceptable behavior, when

people's potential for a rich and fulfilling

aliveness

develop

giving up

all,

difficulties.

its

its life.

own

cre-

the Martyr expects

in fact sacrifice erodes

life.

Exercise 1

Recall a situation in

when you were aware of being

your work, your personal

for this

is

that

life

you experienced

a Martyr. This

may have

occurred

The

criterion

or with people you were close

sacrificing yourself for

someone

to.

else.

THE SACRAL CHAKRA

2 What are your feelings about tations

this situation

55

now? Can you

were for yourself and what you hoped

what your expec-

recall

would bring you? Were you

sacrifice

looking for love or approval?

3 Look

at the situation

where you experienced being a Martyr and ask yourself

you harbor resentment for not having your feelings? ativity

Be

about

sacrifice recognized.

willing to be honest with yourself so that this situation

4 Are you willing

and

let it

What

if

are your

you can release your neg-

go.

to take responsibility for this situation without falling into guilt

or self-recrimination? If you can see

for

it

what

you may avoid

it is

falling into

this pattern again.

5 Can you accept your need for love and appreciation? Can you accept that your willingness to sacrifice yourself ers? to

Can you accept

that

was an attempt

you needn't

you simply because you

to

win love and approval from oth-

sacrifice yourself to

too difficult for

exist. If this is

be loved? Love belongs

you

to accept give

some

thought to your feelings of entitlement to love and happiness.

The Myth Of The Martyr Archetype As you

read about the myths that Martyrs fabricate their lives around, ask yourself

how you want

if this is

moment

and the moment

your

to live

to bring happiness

to begin is

lighter, freer

The myth of have seen, there sacrifice for a

of

their

is

a

myth

real truth is that

lives

is

to enjoy the

that sacrifice is

the

no one enjoys a

goodwill. Compassion

suffer."

and

do

to

in the present

point of

power

the personal

power

is

within you

to divest the

goodness in

good

for us.

difficult situation than

myths

which

sufferer.

They

something

what the Martyr evokes

we

should

in us.

We

stop

Many

will

we

for, as

people would rather

look inside

them

you

life.

a difficult one to transform in our society

worthy cause or a

own

pity. Pity is

is

you willing

The

release the energy invested in this myth,

and more able

the Martyr

are

life?

now! Only you have

myth of any hold over you. As you

become

What

life.

and joy into your

from

at the

emptiness

growing.

The

drain our energy and exasperate our all

develop but

it

isn't the

say: "Oh, poor so and

This doesn't give anyone the energy they need to

move on

to

so,

same

how

as

they

develop a happy


56

life.

Compassion, on the other hand, recognizes

time and

we can

situation or take If

someone

that

be sincerely sorry for their suffering.

away from them, nor do we ignore

it

you are willing

We

having a

difficult

don't try to change their

their pain.

myths which run your

to look at the

is

life

ask yourself some of

the following questions.

Do you

think

Do you

feel that

it

is

better to give than receive?

you are

less

worthy than someone else to receive good

things?

How

do you feel about your entitlement you are worthy of it?

Do you Do you

to happiness?

Do you

feel that

you are worthy of receiving the things you want in life? you have to sacrifice to receive them or give your life up in

feel that

feel

some way? Are you willing changes to

facilitate

Are you willing

What

is it

you

up with a chronically bad your freedom and joy?

to put

to

situation without

develop your creativity and live your

want which

really

will bring

own

making

life?

you happiness and joy?

MEDITATION Sit

or

lie

in

a position

W\sh and begin to

where you are comfortable. Burn some incense

relax.

Take several deep breaths

in

if

you

through your nose and

out through your mouth.

As you

relax visualize a situation

where you

felt

you were

ness and creativity Hold the image of this situation release your anger and resentment around

angry at you for not recognizing

Repeat these words

until

you

that you are recognized for

all

my

it.

in

sacrificing

your

alive-

your mind, and begin to

You may say words

like: "I

am

needs".

feel that

you have been heard.

Now

imagine

that you have done. Imagine that you are being

THE

told: "lAA/e recognize

SACRAI,

CHAKRA

57

your needs and release you to do what you need to do

for yourself." Repeat this to yourself.

As you conne back to yourself to do

this again

with other situations

At the end of each scene color enveloping you and

that need with your

Let that love this

where you have

visualize a healing color

let

it

let

it

go.

felt like

You nnay want a Martyr.

surrounding you. See

act as a healing light to soothe

this

away your emo-

Allow yourself to recognize your need to be loved and embrace

tional pain.

Use

release this innage and

own

love.

grow and mature

in

yourself

meditation for any other situations

where you have

felt like

a Martyr

Vitality

As you begin

to

draw your energy back

from others you begin

to regain

into yourself

your love for yourself. You

of energy being released throughout your body.

being a Martyr

much

as

is to

and withdraw your projections

do things you

One

may

experience bursts

of the most basic ways of not

really enjoy. Eliminate sacrifice

from your

life

as

you can.

Sit quietly

and

listen to

your inner voice. Let

express your vitality and joy. These Painting a picture

Visiting a friend

Talking on the phone

Buying a magazine Writing a

poem

Starting a journal

Playing with a pet

Replanting your house plants

may be

it

guide you to do things that

let

very simple things like the following.

you


58

Playing music and dancing

Going shopping For further inspiration look

Whenever you do

at the

Vitahty

things you enjoy

list

for the Victim

you are

revitalizing

on page 38. your energy. The more

you can do the things which give you pleasure the more you step out of the Martyr archetype.

Empowerment Do

these affirmations with the awareness that you always have a choice. If you are

Martyr remember the focus of power

in a situation

where you

in the present

moment and you can choose

you

feel like a

feel is the best for you.

/ release sacrifice

to sacrifice yourself or stand

Open your mind and

from my

life.

I

do what

I

is

always

up for what

heart to the following affirmations.

choose for

my own

well-being

and happiness.

am a free agent at all times and can fully communicate my feelings about any situation I am in. I

I release the

love I

know

I

choose

I

am

doubts and fears which hold

me back from

to love

myself unconditionally at

entitled to happiness, health

and joy

all times.

in

I forgive the past

and embrace myself fully.

I take the steps I

need

ways

experiencing the

I deserve.

to

grow so

that I

am

my

life.

able to fulfil myself in the best

possible.

I

am

I

acknowledge my mistakes and reaffirm

capable of releasing myself from any situation which doesn 't be fully the person I am.

for

my

life.

my

let

me

self-esteem. I deserve the best

THE SACRAl CHAKRA

/

am

thankful for the learning experience which

mistakes. I

am

a quick learner and will do what

59

comes from making is

best for

me

in the

future.

I

am

capable of healing

where I feel

No one

needs

my life. I choose to seek assistance and my awareness and growth.

help

will benefit

it

to fix

me

or heal me. I reclaim

my power

to look after

myself I deserve happiness and joy.

Case Histories Sybil Sybil

was unhappily married.

In her mid-thirties, she

stable, but non-sexual, marriage.

man and

they enjoyed a comfortable

sultation, she said her

and sought refuge

away from her

problem was

childless

and

in

life.

When

she

came

to

me

for con-

that she felt guilty about her sexuality,

in spiritual causes

feelings.

was

Her husband was a successful business

which put her out of her body and

She was a member of a

spiritual circle

which

believed in cehbacy and this gave her the cover she needed to not have to confront her discomfort about sexuality. She displaced nearly tional energy in her spiritual practices.

and go

to

all

her emo-

She could meditate for hours, chant,

group meetings where people idolized their guru and invested

their life with

purpose through their devotion to him.

Sybil appeared absent most of the time, with a vacant look in her eyes,

and she was self or the

As we life,

make

difficult to

world around

contact with. She

was not

in touch with her-

her.

started to explore her archetypes

and the myths which ran her

she confessed that sexuality had been a big taboo in her family

when

she was a child. She was terrified of her passion and longings. Her mother

had had several children, but told her daughter constantly sex.

Her mother was a

follow in her footsteps.

typical

that she hated

Martyr and her daughter was beginning

to


60

Over

time, and with considerable

work on

began

herself, she

to let

go

of the negative attitudes and fears which blocked her awareness of her body. She became more responsive to her environment, both emotionally

and physically, and she spent more time together with her husband. She

began

to

openly discuss her desire and longing

enjoy sex with him.

to

Eventually she did achieve what she wanted. She created both a healthy sexual and emotional relationship with her partner, and

woman who

ered

from her

could express her needs and feelings. She took the best

spiritual practice

fulfilled person,

became an empow-

having

and

left

left

what didn't work for

She

her.

now

is

a

behind her suffering Martyr archetype.

Jake Jake

is

a

handsome man

health problem

appeared

in his early thirties.

which seemed unrelated

at the time.

When we

to see

me

for a

to his emotional life, or so

started to talk,

very unhappy relationship with a

woman

He came it

became

woman who had

clear he

his child.

He and

one another when necessary. They went on vacations together with

young daughter and made every attempt deeply loved and cared for his child, and

The more he maintained the

worse

his physical

in a

the

same house, and only communicated with

lived separately in the

saw her every day she would

it

was

benefit this idea

to

appear to be a family.

felt if

from

this

he stayed

in the

their

He

house and

arrangement.

of sacrificing his

life

for his child

symptoms became. He developed migraine

headaches and odd rashes and aches which debilitated him and often brought him to the brink of self friendships which

pity.

would have helped

He had

not developed any nurturing

sustain

him through

this difficult liv-

ing arrangement, and he felt very isolated and alone with his choice.

had

little

treated

He

support and open hostility from the mother of his child. She

him with contempt and

disdain,

and was openly offensive

to

him

in

front of the child.

As we worked his life

became

this left a

together over the months, a few important facts about

apparent. His

hole in his

life

own

father had died

which was never

filled.

when he was young and

He

transposed his

own

THE SACRAL CHAKRA

despair and grief on to his child, and

same

grief

for not

start his

making

start to

that this could

was not healthy pretending to their feelings.

persisted,

take responsibility for

for his daughter to

c£ire for

He

be living

in a

one another and were not

the

could see that

this

As he came

to

was

how unhappy he was able to see that

creating a false

effect

it

house where adults were

telling the truth

on the way she

about

image which,

if it

related to people

terms with his feelings about venturing out into

He gave up

he stopped projecting his fears onto his child.

life,

would cause her

He was

be affecting his health.

would have a detrimental

in her life.

left, it

his life work.

Eventually he did

and saw

he

He was also terrified to venture out into own fife. He was using his daughter as an excuse

he had experienced.

and

the world

felt if

61

clinging to

his loveless relationship and, eventually, under emotional strain,

moved

into a flat nearby so that he could see his daughter regularly.

He saw trust

her every day and, over time, developed a different quality of

and bonding with

less sacrifice,

her.

As he

started to live with

he began to make new relationships.

physical complaints. Looking at

ness about him, and he

is

a

him now,

much

there

is

more awareness and

He is now free of his a new level of aware-

happier and healthier person. He, too,

has released the Martyr archetype.

Functional Archetype: The Empress/Emperor

Recognizing The Empress/Emperor As you

release the Martyr consciousness

positive energy field attitudes

which

—

that of the

from your

you can

step into a

new and

Empress/ Emperor This means leaving behind any

limit or disapprove of ease, pleasure

into the Light of Self

and well-being.

When you

step

you can allow yourself the joy which comes from feeling good

about yourself. Allowing the good things of

who you

life,

life to

are requires self-awareness, courage

Knowing when enough

is

be a part of your experience of

and a healthy sense of proportion.

enough stops you from being

over-indulgent. Trust your body, listen to your needs and

satiated and/or

tell

becoming

yourself the truth about


62

what you are

hungry

really

for.

When you do

this then the pleasures

of the material

world do not become substitutes for love. They become a way of expressing your

and your joy for

creativity

The Empress/Emperor archetype of people

who

life.

represents both worldly

love feeling well and

power and

who

earthly pleasure.

thoroughly enjoy

abundance and

delights in

It

is

way

content with the

comfortable with abundance, prosperity and success. creative.

enjoys personal happiness and success

It

outdoor pursuits and sports, as well as a warm,

comfort and ease in everything appetite

it

nourished by

is

This archetype field.

is

There

and

life itself It

experiences

better. It

happy.

It is

itself as

friendly,

its

knows how

it

it

enough. it

It

manages

and what

open

to

it

its

ability to

As It is

come

close and

it is

always

is

its

energy

touches

it

surrounded by lovely things.

an archetype that

the balance

at

is

is

life to this

always enough and

gracious of spirit and

between what Its

it

it

It

takes in from the

relationships are plentiful and

ease in every its

is

way with any

home and makes

sure

situation.

it is

comfortable

has a healthy appetite for food and the pleasures of the body, and

city. It

food and drink.

loves

can have a passionate temperament

gives out to others.

people and

to look after itself.

pleasure:

It

of good, rich food.

share the attitude that there

for. It is

It

well against intrusion and conflict.

of the

loves

bounty.

loves beauty and

The Empress/Emperor archetype loves attractive. It

It

joy and happiness with others in generous and thoughtful ways.

its

environment around

gives

every level.

surrounded by beauty and abundance. Things flourish in

always be provided

loves to share

life

and a gusto for

an aura of well-being and an innate sense of the sweetness of

is

that they will

it

it

invites people to

to share in

archetype. People identified with

and

at

life

Babies and children thrive, plants and animals grow, and everything

improved and made

It is

does and has a healthy and gracious nature.

as well as a jovial sense of humor.

welcoming, coaxing people

full belly

fulfillment.

resourceful, capable and

The Empress/Emperor has a strong emotional sense of

pleasure and fun.

Its

It is

its

has unfolded.

its life

the

This arche-

life.

type stands firmly in the world, proud of its achievements and rejoicing in

It is

lives amidst It

peace and serenity, protecting

loves the beauty of the country and the good

has a special attraction to anything that makes

good music, home entertainment equipment, It

itself

it

feel

happy and

attractive clothes,

appreciates and values the material side of

life

and

it is

good

proud of

purchase lovely things that are well made and costly.

well as an appreciation of the material world

comfortable and at ease with people.

It

it

enjoys laughter and humor.

feels that life is fun

and meant

to

be

THE SACRAL CHAKRA

enjoyed.

It is

sociable and loves parties and gatherings with friends and family.

never deprives

abundance

in

exercise and

63

or withholds pleasure from

itself

whatever

it

does.

It

looks after

Its

joy for

itself the spirit

enough

health, gets

its

never short of affection or touch.

is

allows

itself. It

life

rest,

It

of

food and

pervades everything.

This archetype does not have a deeply developed inner world; things tend to be

manifested in the physical world.

It is

engaged with the bounty of

out an awareness of the spiritual source which sustains

but

it,

it is

life,

often with-

a very happy and

alive archetype.

DEVELOPING THE EMPRESS/EMPEROR Taking Responsibility For Yourself The

level of awareness this archetype has

is

linked with the material world and the

high levels of creative energy which are necessary to maintain a happy and healthy lifestyle.

Though

an important stage of

this is

opment and growth than pleasure and an easy

ways and

we

to healing

spiritual

and growth available

realms of

life. It

to us

life.

when we

helps us to love

there

life

We are

life fully

to personal devel-

have increasingly more path-

open

to living in the emotional

and express our feelings when

we have and what we

detach our identity from what

more

is

do.

Then we can

start to rec-

ognize our inner nature as well.

Exercise 1 Recall an experience

when you

felt that life

was on your

ported and happy with yourself. Try to remember what

going your way and savor the

memory

focused on what was good and in

your

life

fantasize a scene

your side and imagine

2

How

do you

moments

feel

the

that,

however

side,

brief

where you experience feeling

way you would

Does well-being

and you

felt like it

like

it

when

was

joyful to you. If you have no

felt

sup-

life

was

for you. Stay

memory

that life could

of this

be on

to be.

Do you

feel that

you

feel natural

and easy

to

about this scenario?

like this?

fortable with it?

it

felt

of

it

are

worthy of more

you? Can you be com-

CHAKRAS AND THHIR ARCHETYPES

64

3 Look rience

at the

people and situation

when you

tive

make your

to take responsibility for

environment for yourself?

happy and well

your experience or vision. What do you expe-

see this positive image? Is

bination of these qualities which

4 Are you willing

in

in yourself?

images of your future

in

Do you

it

trust, gratitude,

life feel

your

wish

positive and

ability to create a

It

is

from

good?

warm and

feel

create several beautiful

instilling sensations

with positive images that you can create the future.

posi-

more times when you

to create

Open your imagination and

your mind.

com-

pleasure or a

You can make

and feelings

the joy and hap-

piness you deserve by thinking positively about what you want.

The Myth Of The Empress/Emperor Archetype The myths attached at this time.

to this archetype are particularly relevant to

Although

this is a

happy and positive archetype, there

within us that can be developed.

Empress/Emperor,

let

our western culture

As you look

is still

myths associated with the

at the

go of any fixed ideas you may have about want and

The more you suppress your

desires, the

more they can

desire.

twist themselves in your

until

what you thought you wanted becomes mixed with your need for

ship,

independence and prosperity.

Many

much

so

mind

love, friend-

of us have been brought up with the myth that our value as people

is

depen-

we do and what we have. We are measured by the car we drive, the clothes we wear, the job status we have and how attractive our partner is. But these things are not who we are, they are only what we have. We are limited to a temporal and material existence if we define ourselves by these values alone. What would happen, for instance, if you lost your money, split up with your partdent on what

ner and got fired from your job?

Would you be

less lovable, less

and respect without these things? Give some thought

you were suddenly stripped of trappings of your

life.

you need without these things for

who you

all

Can you

and

what you would be

like if

these external things and you were left without the

find the depth of love that define

your

life?

and approval for yourself

Can you love

that

yourself simply

are?

This over-identification with material well-being tivity

to

worthy of kindness

spiritual

is

not

who we

awareness are measured by the depth of our

are.

ability to

Our

sensi-

experience

THE SACRAL CHAKRA

life

ter

65

with joy and to take responsibility for expressing ourselves to our

where we are or what we have. Though

reflect

it is

fullest,

no mat-

pleasurable to have possessions which

our capacity to earn a living they shouldn't be confused with our personal

identity.

Look

myths

at the

your

in

surrounding material possessions. Are you

life

valued for what you have or what you do rather than

who you

Would you

are?

for-

sake your dreams or your creativity for material comfort?

Are you willing

myths

to release the

possess and what you do? See

if

your

self approval to

you can expand your love

who you

deeper and richer sense of

that limit

are.

The good

from being deeply connected be

in the

world and enjoy

for yourself to include a

which come from loving

feelings

yourself are not dependent upon anything material in your

life.

These feelings come

Source within you. This gives you the space to

to the

pleasures, but not overly identified with

its

what you

it.

MEDITATION Sit

Bum

comfortably and take a few deep breaths.

a mirror

Look

in

front of your eyes and look deeply into

at yourself for a

incense and a candle. Hold it.

Take

in

own

your

beauty

few moments and begin to open yourself to the love

and approval you so eagerly

desire.

Give

it

to yourself now. Graciously love

yourself as you look into your eyes and say to yourself: Hello.

I

love you.

I

am

I

listen to

I

honor you and

I

recognize your needs.

creating the very best for you that

you and

anything other than

When

I

love

I

knov^ how.

who you

are for

me

feelings to give

in

your eyes and

this love close

as

you

sit

feel

quietly

the radiance

in

meditation.

you a sense of well-being and joy

a color which expresses the

surround you as you bask

do anything or be

to

to love you.

and peace of that love moving through you

Choose

care for you.

you unconditionally. You don't have

you have given yourself

Allow these

I

the

light

warmth you of your

own

feel for

love.

yourself and

let

it


66

Vitality

To

increase the energy in your Sacral chakra create a

self

moving meditation

which combines movement and conscious thought. This

tial arts

which are focused

in this center.

You can

is

for your-

what happens

mar-

in

increase your vitality with any form

of movement where you are aware of your self and what you are doing. Here are

some examples. Try swimming and holding an affirmation

in

your mind while you glide

through the water.

Walk

in nature

and empty your mind of

all

thoughts so that you can

experience being in the present moment.

Do

same while

the

The aim

that as

is

cycling, skating, skiing, or playing tennis or squash.

you bring your awareness

goodness and joy that

self to the

As you do

this

into the present

within you, you can

is

more and more energy

will

moment and open

move more

move through

and

freely

youreasily.

you.

Empowerment As you do to feel

be

the following affirmations say

how good

it is

them

to say positive things

in the present

moment. Allow yourself

about yourself. Feel

how

stabilizing

it

to trust yourself. /

am

I

am happy and

I let

I

beautiful

and everyone

loves me.

content at all times. Nothing can ruffle

it.

am

powerful and influential

I enjoy

I feel

I love

in

my

world.

my body and feel good about my

happy with

who

myself.

I am.

Life is sweet

and

I enjoy

it.

sexuality.

my feathers

unless

can

THE SACRAL CHAKRA

/

am enough and what I do

I

am

good care of myself and feel comfortable wherever

Life feels

I give

good

I

am.

right now.

myself permission to fully enjoy everything I do.

I share

am

enough.

prosperous and love having money. I love money and money loves me.

I take

I

is

67

my warmth and joy.

easy with myself and trust

my

life is

unfolding in wonderful and

joyful ways.

I accept pleasure as a part of

I enjoy being free

and open

my

to the

being.

goodness around me.

Case Histories "Deirdre Deirdre lived in Europe. She had a strong desire to develop her intuition

and psychic

abihties.

three children

When

I

met her she was

in her early forties

and had

from a former marriage. She ran a psychological center for

creative development.

and her archetype was

Her energy was strongly focused definitely the

in the Sacral

chakra

Empress. She made sure everything

in

her Ufe worked well and was in plentiful supply. She was proud of her

home and

her material wealth. She worked hard to maintain her

home and

she had several business investments which brought her sufficient income so that she could choose what she wanted to do with her time.

She wore beautiful and expensive clothing, and she loved self to small gifts

dening.

whenever

Her Ufe was geared

possible.

treating her-

She also enjoyed cooking and gar-

to give her the

maximum

pleasure.

She


68

enjoyed being massaged, and any form of treatment which helped her relax

and

good about herself was patronized.

feel

However, something was lacking on showing others

energy to help them. She worked hard to

spiritual

zone and,

As

her development. She was intent

in

possessed psychic powers and could channel

that she

finally, after a struggle,

managed

to

rise

unlock psychic

spiritual gifts. Material

wealth was a touchstone of

her well-being and gave her the sense that she was

Soon

after she

with a wealthy for.

ple to help

opened her

man who

She was then able

them open

and

in

spiritual

fine.

awareness, she began a relationship

provided her with the emotional security she had to

devote herself entirely to working with peo-

to their spirituality.

Empress archetype, she was to be,

end of the World

at the

Material comfort had been important to her and nearly stopped her

II.

from developing her

longed

gifts.

she opened up to the higher realms of channeling she admitted she

had been a very poor child and had nearly starved

War

above her comfort

As

she

go of trying

let

to

be the

be that gracious person she wanted

truly able to

doing so reached a higher level of personal development.

- JacobJacob

is

a good example of the Emperor archetype.

and worked for many years tion.

He had

a

to establish a career

good marriage and four

He hved

He

trips

took

theater, opera and concerts.

chakra center, and was stable, steady and

When

his life

went through upheaval

leave his comfort zone. as his job,

He

lost

which he had been

He

one

point,

in a beautiful part

abroad, drank good

He was lived

reliable, as this

at

his early sixties

working for a large corpora-

sportsman, and loved mountaineering and sailing.

is.

is in

children.

of Britain in a lovely and spacious home.

French wine, went to the

He

a rugged

from

his Sacral

archetype generally

he was hard pressed

to

both his parents within a short time, as well

in for

20

years,

and around

this

time his wife

asked for a divorce to go and pursue a career.

With so many changes, It

all

he wanted to do was stay rooted in his past.

bothered him that he was unable to maintain the status quo in his

life. It

THE SACRAL CHAKRA

make

took him a few years to

he wanted to do.

He

He developed

a

the shifts in his thinking and to

maintained

new

many

new

enjoyed and took up several

69

know what

of the pleasures he had always

interests as well.

line of business

which he found rewarding and

challenging, and over a period of time he

managed

to step

on

to higher

ground. Throughout these changes his basic integrity never faltered nor his belief in the goodness of his

One of

life.

the things that he maintained

always had, though he scaled

it

down

to

was fit

the quahty of hfe he

a single person.

At

the

had

same time

he expanded his creativity through new work, and he embarked on a loving

and supportive relationship with a

woman who

shared

many of

This enabled him to manifest his Emperor archetype to

Through the changes he was forced

become one of

life's

victims and been unable to

changes in his thinking. this

was

to undergo,

the foundation

He

its full

extent.

he could easily have

make

the necessary

never lost his basic faith and

upon which he continues

his interests.

to grow.

trust in life,

and

THE

PUXUS CHAKRA

50I,AR

Self-esteem, self-worth, confidence,

decision-making and personal power

DYSFUNCTIONAL ARCHETYPE: The Servant

FUNCTIONAL ARCHETYPE: The Warrior

HOW THE SOLAR PLEXUS CHAKRA FUNCTIONS The

SoIeit

Plexus chakra

sonal power.

we

is

intrinsically linked with

our sense of self-worth and per-

energy helps us to feel self-respecting, decisive and confident.

Its

When

are submissive or susceptible to the influences of other people, the energy

this center

becomes weak and we

The Solar Plexus of energy which

is

is

find ourselves

from

disempowered.

an important chakra because

it

controls the intake and outflow

generated in our interchanges with others. This allows us to deal

When this center is in balbecause we are relating from a

with people on both an emotional and an instinctual level.

ance

it

gives us satisfying and healthy relationships

strong sense of ing that

we

who we

are.

When we own

our power and accept our value, know-

truly deserve the very best for ourselves,

care, kindness

and respect.

to higher levels of

When we

When we

empowerment and deeper bonds of

fail to

we

invite people to

have owned our power

value and honor ourselves

we

we can

weak we can

our confidence.

create experiences

show us

move on

love.

find

we

take the brunt of other

people's negativity and sometimes find ourselves poorly treated. is

then

When

this center

which undermine our self-worth and diminish

THE SOIAR PLEXUS CHAKRA

The Solar Plexus focuses mainly on

71

relationship issues.

Our

level of self-worth

and self-respect gives our relationships quality and permits an equal exchange of emotional energy.

We

do not think or

negotiate our relationships from a place of equality and

our state of self-love

When we we

way

act in an inferior or superior

and worth back

we

attract

to others,

who

people

we

reflect

to us in the most healthy and respectful way.

Crown chakra

connect the Solar Plexus with the spiritual energy of the

put our relationships into a spiritual context in which they can unfold. This gives

us a strong and ordered sense of

and an

ability to transcend

supports peace of mind, personal integrity

life that

emotional conflicts.

The two archetypes representing

the dysfunctional

and functional aspects of

this

chakra are the Servant and the Warrior. They are polar opposites and reflect the ways in

which we manifest

self- worth

and personal power

in our lives.

Dysfunctional Archetype: The Servant

Recognizing The Servant The Servant archetype undervalues Servant

is

vant

someone who does a job well but who

acknowledgement is

for

what

does.

it

not rewarded appropriately for

The Servant doesn't have its life. It is

Acknowledgement itself lingering in the

It is

all it

a sense that

it

is

is

is

power.

not a negative archetype, but the ser-

does.

deserves better than what

acknowledged It

frees people

for

it

it

receives in

gets,

whereas in

what they contribute.

and as the Servant

is

ignored,

itself

and so

is

dependent on others

to give

it

its

finds

its

win acknowledgement and approval.

esteem and

what

People take on the Servant archetype because they don't

worth anything. This archetype relinquishes in order to

it

background, never moving on to higher levels of achievement

worth to acknowledge itself.

it

neglected and receives

empowerment. The Servant does not have enough of a sense of

give to

The

basic worth.

its

thankful for whatever attention or acknowledgement

healthy relationships everyone

or

and does not honor

not as dysfunctional or disempowered as the Victim or the Martyr, but

represents, rather, little

itself

it

cannot

feel they are

personal power and emotional needs It

projects

its

power on

to others

and


72

makes them much more powerful than

them with quaUties

investing

is,

it

would

wouldn't dare.

like to express but

Beginning

it

change the Servant mentality

to

we are dependent for acknowledgement from we give, then we are linked with the Servant

we do or the help archetype. When we find ourselves longing for acknowledgement from others it becomes essential that we learn how to acknowledge ourselves. This is how we empower ourselves and move on from the If

others for the jobs

Servant archetype.

who

Often, this archetype asks for love or recognition from the very people

capable or willing to give

least

a realistic evaluation of

from the

itself

projections of

recognize

and why

life

it

Personal power

abilities

it

may need

has put is

Thus

whom

it

it

At one

one

it

needs to detach

its

it

it

makes

and dependent on

is

not receiving what

it

wants.

many

other

for our self-development.

them responsible for

others.

its

its

The Servant needs

it is

happi-

to

know

doesn't need to do or be anything in order to be loved. it is

worthy of

it.

Its

value

is

It

not tied

it is.

level this reflects its

its

worth. If other people cannot

acknowledgement and recognition from others

well-being and

who

does but to

an expression of

its

more pleasurable and important

The Servant always maintains place.

this point

importance of acknowledgement in

deserves love and consideration simply because

what

At

itself

emotionally entangled, release

is

own

where

itself in a situation

stays submissive

the simple truth that

to

itself.

it

and

to consider the

the Servant lives for

it

and empower

not an area in which to be blocked because there are so

dependent on them for ness.

happens the Servant needs to give

this

into the other person

levels of awareness that are

When

When

situation or person with

power

value

its

its

it.

are

its

a

low

profile. It is self-effacing

understanding of

its

submissiveness and the feeling that

and knows

function and at another it is

less

its

it is

worthy than some-

else.

The

Servant's ego

invaded. This

means

it

is

not well anchored in itself and

can be easily manipulated. There

its

is

boundaries are easily

difficulty distinguishing

one's self from another. If the Servant defines itself through other's recognition of

then

its

sense of self needs to be strengthened. This

will reflect a deepening sense of self-worth

one

is

good

at in life is

empowering.

comes

in

it

making choices which

and confidence and knowing

that

what

THE SOLAR PLEXUS CHAKRA

The Servant seldom light. It

power and shuns

desires high levels of personal

the lime-

can often suffer with diseases affecting the Solar Plexus area such as ulcers,

digestive difficulties and migraine headaches.

physical vitality

diminishes sonal

73

is

often erratic. This

its vitality

levels.

It is

prone to nervous diseases and

because in giving away

is

The way

this

archetype can grow

empowerment through making healthy choices and

needs to make decisions for

which focus on

itself

respect as well as acknowledgement from others. the Servant

knows

its

own

its

its

It is

its

power, the Servant

is

by achieving per-

strong commitments.

well-being and

essential for

its

It

need for

its self- worth

that

sense of value.

Examples of the Servant archetype This archetype can be found in relationships where one partner thinks they are more important than the other. Everything revolves around one peirtner's needs and

demands. The family supports the other

members of

more important and,

As members

as a

importance of one person

self

the family. There

is

at the

consequence of this

belief, everything revolves

around them.

of the family give up their power to support this false image, they

lose their self-esteem

and sense of worth. Their

real

needs are neglected and they

feel they don't count, first in the family context and, later, in life. Yet,

support which makes

Many

expense of

a tacit agreement that this person's needs are

it

possible for this dynamic to occur in the

wives find themselves in

this

supporting their husband and children. This role is

first

often their

place.

secondary, Servant role where they are doing

the supporting and are only acknowledged in terms of

and other auxiliary helpers. There

it is

is

how

well they do their job of

also fulfilled

by

secretaries, nurses

nothing intrinsically the matter with these roles

so long as people are able to receive the recognition they rightfully deserve.

This archetype

is

not gender related.

often find later on that they

acknowledgement.

work

Men who are the

for bosses

who

sons of domineering fathers

are dictatorial and

seldom give them


74

MOVING ON FROM THE SERVANT Taking Responsibility For Yourself Taking responsibility for the Servant archetype

acknowledging

that

may be

it

bility for

what you want

may

it

find

difficult to

in

easier for

your

life is

you

is

important for your self-esteem.

By

to serve others than to take responsi-

a real step towards your

empowerment. You

recognize what you want for yourself or where your needs for

recognition and acknowledgement stem from. If you were not recognized as a child it is

possible you are

or your If

work

you

about your that

still

seeking that from your intimate relationships, your friends

situation.

feel that life

you have relinquished your

or enhance your personal

you take responsibility

for

your

point of change and transformation

you are willing

to

life is

power

right to

make your own

in a significant

way,

it is

decisions

important

now. You can begin by valuing yourself. The

always

in the present

moment. Ask yourself

be empowered by taking responsibility for your

want. Acknowledging yourself for this decision

is

life

if

and what you

a step towards empowerment.

Exercise

Remember

a time

when you

lived out the Servant archetype either in a

tion or a personal relationship.

pen because you didn't

feel

How

did you give

work

away your power? Did

worthy or because you

felt

someone

situa-

that hap-

was more

else

important than you? Could this have happened because you wanted to feel that you

were good and you wanted others to

empower

yourself, to

to

acknowledge you?

It is

essential, if

acknowledge your own feelings about wanting

you wish

to

know

if

you are good enough. Try asking yourself the following questions.

1

What

did you gain from being subservient to

someone

else?

2 Did you get what you wanted from this person?

3

Do you

believe that

respect than

someone

you are?

else deserves

more or

is

more worthy of love and


4

How

do you

feel

As you look

about

this situation

willing to acknowledge

you now.

agree that you are worthy of

it.

If

If

now?

your mind's eye ask

at the situation in

75

you receive a

YES

this

person

if

they would be

response than thank them and

you get a NO, thank them anyway and acknowl-

edge yourself for having done a wonderful job of supporting and helping them best of your ability.

It is

know you are worthy of your own love who did not acknowledge you and let go of

important that you

and respect. Then you can forgive those any shame or blame that

to the

is still

attached to this situation. Release yourself from

all

the negativity surrounding this situation and be free.

The Myth Of The Servant Archetype So many people believe

They if

myth

the

worthy of the things they want.

that they are not

often attract situations which mirror their worst feelings about themselves. This,

not consciously altered, will continually diminish their self esteem and erode their

confidence.

They may

find themselves in situations or relationships

hoping for acknowledgement or approval from others and

They may go on chasing just at

this

around the comer, and that

all

myth thinking

it is

not forthcoming.

the love or approval they

they have to do

is

self

and

is

want

is

change something or be better

something and the love and acknowledgement they seek will be

undermines the

where they are

confidence-destroying to anyone

theirs.

This both

who engages

in a rela-

tionship with this attitude.

In truth, love and approval never

we

begin to value and honor

who we

come

we

until

are then

we

give them to ourselves.

are

on the road

to

When

empowerment.

Validating ourselves will draw healthy and fulfilling experiences to us which reinforce our self-esteem and increase our confidence. likely to find ourselves in abusive or

with people

who

don't value

who we

unhappy

When

situations.

this

We

happens we are

are.

The myth of not being worthy can easily be perpetuated by people we

are involved

with in our families, churches and schools. You always need to ask yourself: receiving the love and respect ative attitudes about

I

feel

I

less

avoid being involved

"Am

I

deserve?" Are you willing to release the neg-

your worth that block the love and joy you want? You don't

have

to suffer or struggle to

is all

available to

be happy with yourself.

you when you love and honor

It is

important to believe that

yourself.

it


76

As you examine in it

your

life

myths of the Servant,

the

you the opportunity

offers

the negative experience

is

your

life

— whether they take — give you

be aware that every experience

more about who you

are.

Sometimes

which brings enlightenment. Often the petty the

tyrants of

form of an overpowering parent, a nasty boss or an

you emerge from the struggle you are caught

to learn

grow and expand your sense of worth. When

the chance to

ungrateful lover

try to

and much

stronger, quickened

less likely to

and situations which are not joyful and healthy.

in relationships

MEDITATION Sit

comfortably and

relax.

Take several deep breaths

out through your mouth. Burn a candle or energy around you

As you

sage

who

lives

you are walking along a

a very old

there.

man

through your nose and if

you

like

which leads up a

beautiful path

As you scramble over

there

sitting

deep

in

large boulders with precipitous

When

you

meditation.

arrive at a shrine there

You

sit

quietly in front of

him and wait for him to recognize your presence. You go deeper state

and before you are aware of

When

you open your eyes you

the answers you seek

you are looking deeply

it

realize that

you are aware that you are the sage all

to keep the

want to go to the top of the mountain to meet an ancient

drops, you are panting and out of breath. is

in

incense

purified.

relax imagine

high mountain. You

light

you are alone

whom

in

into a relaxed

inside yourself

this shrine.

you sought and you

Suddenly

realize that

are inside yourself

You no longer need to look

for

to know, however big or small,

answers outside your is

self Everything

within you. You offer thanks and

the mountain, back into the world. You start your

life

with a

you need

come down

new and deeper

awareness of yourself Enjoy the feeling that you best of

all

things.

support you

in

know your worth and

Your work and your

that you deserve the very

relationships are deeply satisfying

being the best that you can be.

and

be


77

Vitality In order to increase your vitality and energize your Solar Plexus

you may want

do some brave and courageous things which you haven't allowed yourself the past.

Consider what sort of

develop the inner life.

skills to

The following Take a

trip

and getting

activities

would be appropriate

for

give you a deep sense that you are in

to

do

to in

you and help you

command

of your

of activities will help you.

list

somewhere you haven't been on your own. Enjoy exploring to know what is interesting and what this place evokes in you

Climb a mountain Try a sport

that is

new and adventurous

Start a course of study of

something you have always wanted to know

more about Sell or give

away

Talk to someone

things that don't hold any

who

more

allure for

you

frightened you in the past

Talk to a friend or healer

who

can help you resolve issues about your

life

which block your happiness and health

Make some

decisions about your hfe which involve going for what

you want

Empowerment You can

write

down

or speak these affirmations out loud.

They can be

said in front

of a mirror or to yourself while you are swimming, driving or cooking a meal. They are designed to help

you empower

yourself.

/ love myself. I love myself. I love

I

am

myself

worthy of my own self acceptance.

I value

who

I cherish

my

I am.

sweetness and kind nature.


78

know what

/

value myself and

I

know

I

champion my growing sense of self

I

accept responsibility for all decisions I make

I

honor myself and

I

have the power

I

I

am becoming

the best possible person that I

treat

to

best for me.

is

in

my

can

be.

life.

myself with respect.

remove myself from

all

abusive and negative situations

which harm me. I

am

As

I

the

prime decision maker

own my power

I

am

I

heal and grow every day.

all the

I allow myself to

As

I build

my

life.

recognize the strength and beauty of

I

worth

in

good and

resilient

alive

am.

each day.

ego I love and cherish

all aspects

I refuse to let other people project their negativity into me. I

person, free to choose what

I

the wonderful things I want.

become stronger and more

a strong and

who

is

of myself.

am my own

best for me.

Case Histories Rose Rose

is in

her mid-forties and has been married for over 20 years to a

wealthy doctor. She began therapy two years ago. She was a university graduate but decided to marry and

start a

family rather than face the chal-

lenges of a career. She had five children and has spent the rest of her mar-

THE SOLAR PIEXUS CHAKRA

home. As her children became older they grew

ried life looking after her

accustomed

to material

They drove

fast cars,

clothes,

when

met

I

way of

replacing quality time and atten-

had expensive clothes and equipment, and went

They went on expensive summer and winter

to private schools.

Rose,

who was busy

comforts and luxury. Their father,

with work, gave them gifts as a tion.

79

her,

vacations.

rode a bicycle. She wore old and well-worn

and hadn't bought herself anything new in years. She looked ten

years older than her age and she sported a black eye at our

ment which was from an

altercation with her husband.

she was unhappy about her preciative of

all

the

life.

He wanted

She had

know why

to

good things she had and he

told

him

she was so unap-

her in a

hit

appoint-

first

fit

of rage.

He

He how he

continued to abuse her for a long while into her treatment sessions.

could not abide her having feelings which did not felt

He was amazed

she should be.

when

reacted It

took a

little

be unhappy and always

of work for Rose to develop her self-esteem. She had to

up

for herself

and

woman who had

feel that she counted.

band and threatening

to

making demands on her hus-

withhold her support in the family structure. Life

change quickly around her home. She

began

to

with a

woman

She was a bright

willingly sacrificed her life for others with

or no reward or recognition. She started

family found

view of

his

she spoke up for herself. lot

learn to stand

and creative

that she could

fit

left briefly for

a vacation

friend and the entire household ceased functioning.

it

difficult to carry

on without

her,

The

and when she returned

they were kinder and more respectful.

Her

struggle to speak

els in her family or

up for herself has not been

among

personal identity. She

her close friends for

felt that

this,

easy.

She has no mod-

or for developing her

she didn't count and she struggles with devel-

oping a sense of worth. She had been educated by nuns and was taught that a

woman's place was Although

know

it is

to serve without the right to

a struggle for her, she

is

make demands.

learning to love herself and to

she does makes a difference to others. Every day

from the Servant archetype and values herself

more

into

a more empowered

deeply, her husband has

begun

is

a step

away

archetype.

to listen to her,

both he and her children are becoming more appreciative of

her.

As she and


80

GeorgeGeorge

is in

his late thirties

and

woman who

relationship with a

pays child support and

is

He

a social worker.

is

involved in a

has his child. They live separately and he

son on weekends, and the three of them

visits his

go on vacations.

He and lovers.

He complains

parent to his son.

up

mother are on friendly terms but they are no longer

his son's

As

about her often and her inability to be a nurturing the years have unfolded, he has found himself

where he

in this relationship

girlfriend,

paying for

many

is

catering to both his son and his former

which should be shared equally between

things

many

the

two

He

loves his child and pretends not to be bothered

parents, as well as doing

special favors for the mother.

always does what

is

He

asked, as he

bound

is,

things to be helpful and well liked.

when he

is

asked to do

in essence, being manipulated.

knows

that

He

he has no legal rights to his

child and she could withhold visiting privileges at a

whim. The mother's

goodwill has been very important to him.

Meanwhile, he hadn't developed any new relationship of felt

no one would put up with such an awkward

when he met

a

woman who was happy

to

with him and his son. They live together in everything they do. It

archetype and begin to steps to ensure he

own.

his

He

situation until recently,

spend her weekends together

now and always

include the boy

took a while for George to relinquish the Servant

empower himself

had a permanent place

in his family situation. in his son's life,

He

took

and he had

to

stand up to the boy's mother and confront her manipulative behavior to regain his sense of lost power.

As he has become more empowered he

developed a better relationship with both his new partner, his former friend and his son. All his relationships

stood up for himself.

became

healthier, in fact,

also

girl-

once he

THE SOLAR PIEXUS CHAKRA

81

Functional Archetype: The Warrior

Recognizing The Warrior As we embark on exploring attitudes

tudes,

which

reflect the

we make

archetype

lets

the nature of the Warrior, let us leave behind ideas or

us

all

tionships and in the world around us.

good

letting

be the hero or heroine in our

ness our willpower and live from a solidly

feel

By

Servant archetype.

go of old and well-worn

the space for our archetypes to heal and be transformed.

in the

own

lives.

empowered

We

atti-

The Warrior

take control, har-

position in our work, rela-

The more we can give ourselves permission

power of our own energy,

the

to

more personal power we accumulate

in our lives.

The Warrior on an

the strongest of all the personal circhetypes.

is

and affirmatively and positively

instinctual level

It

reflects

operates primarily

our levels of

self-

confidence, self-worth and personal power.

This archetype focuses our strength and our ability to assert our right to be the

we know how

best person

to be. This

means doing what gives us joy and allowing

ourselves to fully express our talents and gifts and also to say "no"

Our

ability to stand

archetype that

up for ourselves

we make

The Warrior

is

and engages with

life in

now

that

we

necessary.

It is

from

this

life.

an active and energetic way.

as they gather courage

when

associated with this archetype.

a highly intelligent and aware archetype.

both sexes, especially

women

our stand in

is

It is

It is,

masculine

in nature

of course, pertinent to

are seeing the Warrior archetype flourishing in

and strength

to live their lives free of restraint

and

constriction.

In order for the Warrior to fully develop itself the psyche creates challenges the

Warrior must face. This external impetus usually takes the form of rejection or opposition. It forces the Wiirrior to fall

and It

self worth. In this

sharpens

its

way

back on

its

internal sense of

the Warrior archetype will harness

proverbial sword and develops

growth and personal development.

its

its

its

strength, ability

strength and power.

esteem, confidence and

wisdom

for

The Warrior on the

side of good

The Warrior uses every sees is


CHAKRAii

82

situation to help

develop intentionality and direction.

it

as something to be conquered through right or might. This singular vision

life

based on

its

Things will appear either as good or bad and the

illusion of duality.

Warrior will naturally stand on the side of good and will strive to eradicate

which

ruthlessly pursues opposition itself,

believes in itself and

The itself. It It

polarity of

throw

will

good and bad gives itself into

The Warrior archetype and emptiness and

perceives as being against

it

is

the Warrior the impetus

causes which will enhance

It

and opposition

it

stands up for

on

thrives

and

strife

constantly striving to

experiences

is its

it

needs to fight for

way

its

or limiting

conflict. It pits itself against

make

own

it

power and confidence.

its

perceives as standing in

it

has courage, foresight and power, but

ing.

tion

It

it.

evil. It

optimistic and enthusiastic about putting itself forward.

is

oppose anything which

will also

with

It

sense out of

and give

life

it.

chaos

mean-

it

doesn't see or accept that the separa-

projection.

It isn't

an archetype

at

peace

life.

Spiritual limitations

The Warrior believes

that there is

the Solar Plexus,

it

power played out

relates to the

in relationships,

real sense of personal

power.

Its

psyche It is

ego, and to strive for success in

all it

find intimacy

it

does heightens

people achieve

spiritual limitation of the

because

it

It

is

we

are

strength.

one and

all

this level

Warrior

is

its

It is

it

is

in life,

to substitute for their

to

able to

its

have a strong and

make money, seek

is

resilient

pleasure,

self-worth or integrity in any way.

it

believes that its

many more

its

success

ego with

its

solely responsible for all that happens in

Warrior, on the other hand,

experiences

and understands the

sense of worth.

can be shortsighted and not link

feels

it

of empowerment and that

all things. It

and jealousy

important for does.

centered in

its instincts,

geared towards developing confidence,

and survive without jeopardizing

Indeed, everything

world from

working situations and

self-esteem and personal power.

doing.

power and

reality that

has an affinity to the nature of power in

that people act out their aggression, anger

own

divisions of

no separation.

Because the Warrior archetype

Many

its

awareness does not extend to the ultimate

Its spiritual

way

world and

in the material

is

seek

but the

the result of

spiritual its

it,

life.

its

awareness

A

spiritual

constantly thankful for the challenges and obstacles

it


faces because

and

grit. If

it

knows

the

way

grows and develops

it

and

is

by facing

static,

focused only on

The Warrior archetype world around

us.

Its

vision of life can be egocen-

gives us the opportunity to experience our control of the

When we embody

things work;

we

it

ambitions and success.

its

this

archetype

we

gain a sense of mastery that

in the face of conflict, recuperate

make

use power to

pen for ourselves and others. As well, we develop a capacity

make

with grace

life

the Warrior archetype does not develop a spiritual philosophy of life

remains limited and can become rigid and arrogant. tric

83

we can

from wounds and face

things hap-

to achieve results

survive

stand alone

crisis,

uncertainty.

It

and

also represents

our abihty to stand up for ourself, feel worthy and express that worth in the form of confidence, healthy decisions and a joyful

The Warrior archetype with the nature of power.

how

life.

This

is

the spiritual Warrior's path.

offers us the opportunity to understand It

gives us an awareness of

other people can harness

it

or misuse

it

and come

to terms

how we manage power and

in their lives

and relationships.

It is

a

necessary archetype to transcend on our path to love.

DEVELOPING THE WARRIOR Taking Responsibility For Yourself As you

take responsibility for yourself

tions of

power which you gave away

self with

it

becomes necessary

to call

to others. It is then that

back the projec-

you can reinvest your-

what you have given away.

Taking responsibility for your projections

is

necessary

if

you want

develop your self worth. The degree of power you experience in your

mensurate with your self-worth. As lenges and opposition

more

easily

Giving away your power takes you, help you or even hurt you.

your power back.

this

becomes more developed you

grow and

to

life is

will

meet chal-

and stop blaming or giving away power

many

forms.

Owning your

You can give power

part in

any

com-

to others.

to others to heal

situation helps

you

to take


84

Exercise 1

Think of three people (more can choose anyone

2

When you

— perhaps

have these people

you consider

that

if

to

like)

whom

you consider

are capable of saying "no"

mind look

in

carefully at

do exactly what they

when

them and define what

may

like or they

have influence or

They

which you admire.

am ...," listing the qualities am influential. I can say no. I

of a mirror say to yourself "I

in front

it is

say these peo-

they don't like or agree with something.

projected into your chosen people, such as "I

make

be powerful. You

a politician, film actor or a parent.

also express themselves with a creativity and authority

3 Standing

to

be powerful about them. For instance, you

ple are powerful because they

may

you

you can

things happen." Repeat this exercise several times until you feel that you

have integrated the qualities you have projected into others. This exercise

way

a good

is

to

own your

your power away to others and helps you to

Whatever you admire or despise

You and in

them.

I

could each look

No

quality

psyches which ity.

The

skill

we

is

at the

in

same

a given truth.

are seeing

all

power.

It

own your

someone

how you

give

projections.

else is

always a part of yourself.

three people and see totally different things

It is

the reflection

the time in everything

of consciousness-raising

helps you see

is

and projection of our

we

own

perceive as external real-

getting yourself to

own your power by

reclaiming what you have projected into others, into your relationships and the world

around you.

The Myth Of The Warrior Archetype As we examine power. sonal the

the

myth of

Do you want power

empowerment which

the Warrior archetype, ask yourself

over others to lets

your

own

tell

power and

own

tale

its

natural

to

feel about

do or do you want per-

unique light shine in the world? Look

myths around power which, along with

drama, fairy

them what

how you

at

love, are usually involved with every

and characterization passed down through the ages. The theme of

abuse prevails

power

still

because

for healing, health

we

are only just learning to call

and wholeness.

on our


The myth of fight

we

the Warrior

way through

our

want. This myth

that those

is

real

room

a

for

them

unless

willing to look at your

feel eludes

Can you personal

we have

to

many

people.

love and peace of

empowerment

myths about power.

you? And what

will

you do

empowerment and

this is

We may have

mind is

there that

is

power

Is

something you want or which

it

to achieve it? is

empty without

something each person must develop in themselves.

MEDITATION Sit

or

in

lie

Bum

a comfortable position.

a candle or incense to cleanse the

energy around you and take several deeply relaxing breaths as you begin to free your as

body from

tension. Breathe into the tense places

and

feel

relaxed

you begin to release tension.

Focus your awareness into your Solar Plexus. This

num

in

is

at

the bottom of the ster-

the center of your rib-cage, just above your stomach. Visualize strong

from

rays of light radiating

it.

The

rays shine

outward and become stronger

you become more aware of your power Continue your breathing and rhythmic way and

be aware of releasing

Open easy

let

your awareness focus constriction

all

yourself to the possibility of

way Be

son you

willing

know you

and respect you

to

let

are.

feel

no

a function of being.

is

between empowerment and power? Power

differentiate

demands

Western culture as an ideal model

in our

between power and empowerment

distinction

exists in the external world, while

you

It

to enjoy a peaceful spirit or a creative nature.

myth developed

money and power but

empowerment. The

Be

to gain the things

ethos give over their hearts and consciousness to the path

its

which makes ruthlessness and bad behavior acceptable success,

are separate and need to

us justify both control and dominance over others.

lets

is little

The path of power

we

imposing our will on others in order

Hfe,

who embrace

of power. There

based on the idea that

is

85

your

light

in

and tightness

living

in

as

a relaxed

your body. As you breathe in

your Solar Plexus.

from your strength

a positive and

in

shine so that you can be the radiant per-

Love yourself and

you deserve. Relax

let

yourself be

into yourself

and

worthy of the feel

power

through your body as you say YES to yourself and YES to your

life.

love

flowing


86

Vitality

As you open yourself

your power you

to

need to channel the energy flowing

will

through your body. This means that you can use

You can focus

health.

aliveness. to let

it

Be

sure

it

it

wherever you

brings you joy.

like. It

As you

let

this

can be used for your well-being and

your

light shine for others

to

imagine that you are drawing energy

in

energy takes the form of light and goes into every golden. Your eyes and skin

become

Your bones and nerves

self right

now

through your Solar Plexus. This of your body.

cell

radiant and your muscle tone

are strong

sparkle. Feel your vitality rise

and

resilient.

Your

is

Its

color

is

smooth and youth-

hair shines

and your eyes

and your strength increase. You are empowering your-

with universal energy and the power of positive thought.

You may want

to consider doing

mina and helps you build

strength.

something which enhances your physical

You could

try the following.

Walking Jogging

Dancing

Swimming Weight training

Yoga Aikido

Judo Alexander Technique

Massage These

remember

shine for yourself.

Begin

ful.

energy for your creativity and

activities help

you

to release tension

and

to focus

your power.

sta-


87

Empowerment The way

to

(Whatever

empower you

it is

yourself

is to

be certain of your

self- worth.

You

are worth

you want or deserve.) Say or write these affirmations with

feel

a sense of your entitlement.

Divine power moves through me. I value

who

I

am.

I

am

worth

I

am

worthy of my own self

I

am

the only person in

I

am free

I

am open

my

to

my

love,

life

who

I

am

responsible for making happy.

joy and happiness

in

my

life.

and prosperity, knowing

that

all.

Goodness and joy are mine. 1

love.

to receiving love, happiness, health

them

I deserve

weight in gold.

choose

own my power and

I

am

I deserve them.

willing to take responsibility for myself in all

situations.

I

am

willing to

I reclaim

I

am

grow and mature

my power

into the best

person I can

be.

now.

the only person

I stand

it!

who knows what

is

best for me.

up for myself and demand the very best for

my

efforts

and

abilities.


88

Case Histories Janitw

who works

with corporate management.

Janine

is

She

a Warrior archetype and prides herself on her ability to "shake and

is

move" don't

a professional consultant

people. She

know

is

who

her well. She has described the work she does as helping peo-

ple find their power. reflects

very authoritative and even fearsome to people

She has a highly developed ego and her

lifestyle

it.

She maintains a high standard of living which includes expensive and luxury vacations. She

clothes, chic restaurants

happy, nor

She came

is

is,

however, not very

she able to have intimate connections with people in her

to see

me

life.

because she was having a series of disturbing dreams

over a period of several months. These dreams frightened her and gave her the impetus to look inward.

her

life

was missing

As we worked

together,

spontaneity, joy and intimacy.

became evident

it

She began

to let

that

go of

her idea that she was superior to other people. Keeping herself separate

was

as

way of

much

a defense as part of her strength. She developed this as a

resisting opposition, but, in fact, she

As she transcended protection,

her Warrior archetype she dropped her defensive

and she became softer and more accessible

She enjoyed herself more and developed new up, she

know ness.

found herself very lonely.

was even able

to

laugh

at

her

own

people around

to

friendships.

haughtiness.

her.

As she hghtened

As people

got to

her better they were able to appreciate her strength and sense of

fair-

She became a warmer and more loving person as she moved on from

the Warrior archetype and felt less need to prove her worth.

path of the heart as she softened to

let

experienced in giving up separation

is

love into her

life.

She found the

What

she has

being able to live from her heart.


89

-Phillip

Phillip is a

young man

in his early thirties

unrelated to his personal

and wanted

to

know

life.

He had

As we

talked,

more involved with personal development work and key

to

many

doors.

He

to see

me

for reasons

a strong interest in psychic matters

could help him.

if I

who came

I

told

him

felt that this

I

was

was the

decided he wanted to work on himself and develop

his inner being.

As

Phillip's

ego strength began unfolding, and he became more empow-

ered and less self-effacing, something happened to him which that I

was witness

Phillip's

own

to the Wtirrior archetype

emerging

made me

employer was a strong Warrior archetype who had

business and

made

a success out of

people like Phillip to work for him.

Warrior archetypes

who

it.

He chose young,

What he

feel

in his personahty.

created

started his

ambitious

was a group of young

eventually decided to challenge his authority and

break away from him to form their

own company.

This challenge to his authority came in the form of a characteristic expression of the Warrior archetype.

"We

can do

it

better,"

only through creat-

It is

ing challenges like this that the Warrior archetype can develop and thrive.

The old employer was so angered the group in a court battle in the

was

that as this fight

went on,

what happened

hope of breaking

fraught and tense time for Phillip. berating this man, and portraying

at

He would come him

Phillip

as vicious

He wanted hoped

It

was a

to his sessions with

and

ruthless.

this

the

me

The irony

same

qualities

to get

mirror in front of him.

own authority and challenging his boss was the way he it. When he eventually recognized the opposition as his own began

to ease

up and

his boss

dropped the law

Philhp became clear about his desire for power and once he owned

for himself,

he

his

projections, this situation suit.

he challenged

their spirit.

was developing

accused his boss of having, only he was blind to

that

was able

to let go,

and be more

flexible

and more gracious.

it

THE HEART CHAKRA Love, joy, unity, kinship and peace

DYSFUNCTIONAL ARCHETYPE: The Actor/Actress

FUNCTIONAL ARCHETYPE: The Lover

HOW THE HEART CHAKRA FUNCTIONS The Heart chakra functions essence.

As

the heart is the

in

Chinese medicine, so love

to

imbue our physical

life

To

is

in

our body,

the center of our lives.

and our

known

and delight

life is felt

from the

in life. It is

spiritual heart that the

and expressed.

and develop as a compassionate and loving person we need

flourish

When our hearts are open we are and we feel harmoniously balanced

those around us

within ourselves.

of love helps us

make

well as ourselves.

bom

fuller

Love

is,

stay

We

we need

The experience

after all, the foundation of life.

with open Hearts, but as

we

enter into the illusions of

we

life

which

shut our hearts down. In this

protection for our innocence, our purity and our joy.

open and vulnerable

be

connections to the beauty and light of other people, as

separate us off from the eternal presence of love

world

to

peace with ourselves and with

at

are

spiritual

Emperor

The Heart chakra allows us

receptive to love.

We

as the

with the radiance of love, joy, unity, and kinship, and stim-

ulates our sense of touch

deepest meaning of

as the core of our physical bodies

most important organ

It is

not safe to

to the harsh reality of other people's negativity

could not survive feeUng totally exposed to others' pain.

As we grow

and

fear.

older

we

THE HEART CHAKRA

91

down. Unfortunately

learn to protect this vulnerability by closing our Heart center

we

lose our capacity to trust in the ever-present goodness of

fixed in a groove of discontent and unhappiness. is

then unavailable to us and

many

we know

there

find that

and find ourselves

What we most long

we

is

no

We

can pretend

we

in our hearts that

substitute to cover

When we

try

love

fall in

we

are sophisticated

it is

and

that love doesn't matter to us,

the only thing that truly counts in our lives

are the

most

alive

and joyful we can possibly

When we

The two archetypes which exemplify

is

are in love

we

all

be.

We

the glory that

are at one with ourselves

all life.

Actor/Actress and the Lover.

which

and

its loss.

intended us to experience.

and with

to

and desire

We may

are starving for love.

have found a significant other to share ourselves with and to know

God

for

things to cover the feeling of emptiness, from drugs and sex, to overeating or

overworking. but

we may

life

not truly integrated in

One its

is

the energy of the Heart chakra are the

an archetypal portrait of the pretense of love

experience.

The other archetype

is

completely open

and enjoys the wonder of love.

Dysfunctional Archetype: The Actor/Actress

Recognizing The Actor/Actress The dysfunctional archetype of

who

play at love but

who

the Heart chakra, the Actor/Actress, refers to those

are not sufficiently

aware and hide

their darker feelings

under the hidden agendas of power and dominance. This archetype real intimacy

because

loved by another. ing

its

It

it

resists feeling its fears

goes through

life

and negativity

is

incapable of

to loving

acting as though everything were fine, escap-

inner emotional reality and managing to avoid the experience of intimacy.

never seems to get too close to anyone and avoids bonding by acting out in tension

and

and drama and distancing

feels safe only at a distance

itself. It

from those

it

doesn't expose

When its

anyone comes too close

relationships. Its pain

its

own

conflicts

vulnerability

heart.

to its vulnerable core

comes from old

its

its

It

professes to love. Love, for this arche-

type, is a mental exercise rather than a function of

tages

and being

hurts and

is

it

closes

down and

sabo-

expressed in holding back


92

feelings or using arguments and a variety of other tactics to keep love away. rosis,

or fear of love, can

to

its

old wounds.

its

control.

to

defend

and

The

become

threat

difficult to let

It is

from hurt

itself

it

whenever someone penetrates too close

reactivated

too great and leaves

is

go of

neu-

Its

and

the pain

it

terrified

love into

let

who

can do damage to those

and afraid of losing

its life.

mistake

In

attempt

its

charm

its

for love

willingness to bond with a fear of being alone. For the Actor/Actress can be

its

very seductive and able to draw to

people

it

who

are able to give love, but

it

hides

a closed and well-fortified heart.

There are many people who have achieved deep levels of love and happiness

You can

their lives.

who have made

see

their

it

on

and hear

their faces

These are people

in their voices.

it

in

peace with themselves and have opened their hearts to the

gifts

of love. They are able to accept others without criticism and they fully accept them-

knowing

selves,

that, at their core,

they are love.

The Actor/ Actress maintains staunch

defenses against the humbling and purifying experience of love. They desperately

want

and desperately need

it,

down

letting

it,

but

same time

at the

and

is

this barrier

keeps love away.

and deeper understanding of

to a richer

cuts off

from love

it

diminishes

It

its

past, often buried

blocks

itself

because love

force and dims

its life

Being too vulnerable and protecting archetype in an intimate relationship.

to give

and look

from the

heart.

after

it,

but

The push and

and painful for anyone caught up

Beginning

to

It it

it

itself

its

is

pull aspect of

its

is

Opening

the

its

relationships this

finding

It is

finds

it

this

someone too hard

both frustrating

archetype plays out.

wounds.

It

in

co-dependent relationships which do not

remains frozen in an emotional abyss and

it is

painful

to witness this archetype struggling with its neurotic patterns of resisting love. If

remains unawares or keeps on blaming

its

it

heart

main concern of

wounds by

games

When

change the Actor/Actress mentality

to heal its

terns over

it

its life.

doesn't offer love in return.

in the tormenting

deep inside

too painful.

beauty.

its

from hurt

hopes to heal

The Actor/ Actress becomes enmeshed allow

would mean

feelings and avoids opening

its

not an act of will but, rather, a choice to include love in

to ease its pain

It

it.

defenses and being exposed.

all their

The Actor/ Actress harbors resentment about for years,

are terrified of

and over again.

heart and love.

It

its

partner,

needs to do what

it

it

will repeat the

same old

longs for the most; that is to

it

pat-

open

I

THE HEART CHAKRA

mind

takes a willing

It

we

to realize

attempt to resolved our wounds, but that hearts terns

open

We

to love.

93

on

are projecting is

the

way

to our partners in our

to free ourselves

and

let

our

can hope to find release from our pain by seeing our pat-

and ending the struggle and

conflict

we have

set

up against being loved.

MOVING ON FROM THE ACTOR/ACTRESS Taking Responsibility For Yourself Taking responsibility for to

go through before finding

are in love;

we

Eventually

learn

we

how

behave

to

As

a stage of development

when we drop our

learn to imitate those

who

may come when we bond

with

adolescents

in trust

still

to

and

faith.

Sometimes, because of our

deepen our relationships.

We may

not grasp the meaning of what love

defenses and expose our

chance to bloom and

people have

in a shallow facsimile of love, avoiding confrontation or

which would enable us

embroiled in fights and

we

many

in relationships.

open our hearts

we remain blocked

difficulties

real love.

is

develop a capacity to love. This

another, feel safe and fears,

archetype

this

we can move on

to the

soft,

is

find ourselves

for us.

It is

only

vulnerable nature that love has a

Lover archetype.

Exercise To help you deepen your capacity

1

Are you able

2

How much

to

to love ask yourself the following questions.

be open and honest about your feelings with another person?

love do you feel for yourself?

3 Can you experience love for yourself when you are unhappy or lonely?

4 Are you able

5

to sustain a

Do you know how

commitment through

to stay with

when communication

is

difficult

someone through

times?

the unpleasant and hard times

blocked because of blame or resentment?


94

6 Can you be detached enough

7 Does your love help you

you

feel

to

your loved ones

to allow

honor your commitment

to

to

be themselves?

work

things through

when

unsure and vulnerable?

8 Can you be

true to

your feelings

in a relationship

without sacrificing or losing

your sense of self?

9 Can you love someone

as they are

10 Can you love yourself enough

These questions are designed and be loved. They are not a

test

understanding of love in your

to

and not expect them

be the way you are

to give

you some

to

change for you?

in a relationship?

insight into your capacity to love

with right or wrong answers, only a gauge for your

life.

The Myth Of The Actor/Actress Archetype As we move from

examine our myths regarding

to

ment

we

that

we have

the realm of the Actress/Actor archetype, love.

the opportunity

important for our growth and develop-

It is

avoid mistaking need, dependency and gratitude for love. Love

is

the

capacity to feel and express the deepest parts of ourselves with another.

Love lives.

is

the building block of the universe and an essential

Without love our

lives are dry

energy flowing and bonds our it

spirits to

into our lives as well as give

We about

it

love should be.

It

our daily

component

in

our

the juice that keeps our

is

up

lives. It is

to us to

choose to

let

to ourselves.

could not exist without love.

how

and stagnant. Love

It is

exists in so

important to

let

many ways and

go of any ideas we have

in so

many forms

we experience at certain way we are not

that our

imaginations could not fathom the bounty of love

every moment.

we

being loving,

qualify love and insist that

are being controlling.

qualifying

Be

how

it

must be a

The more we can expand our

they should be, the better

we

love in your

are able to let love flow into our hearts.

you release any limiting or narrow

life.

we

hearts to include others, without

willing to look at your ideas about love and see

to yourself as

If

if

you can be gentle and kind

attitudes

and myths which

limit

THE HEART CHAKRA

95

Relationships are the most difficuh things in hfe to master.

ingness to open our hearts and

let

of the collective unconscious and into a relationship.

It

who

allow

it

at least

two

is

They

require a will-

dealing with the whole

entire family histories

when we

enter

takes a quiet perseverance and trust in love to open and be our-

selves with someone. to all

love purify us. Everyone

The love which flows through our

in.

See

if

you can

risk being

open

hearts

is

the universe's gift

to love.

MEDITATION Sit

comfortably so that you are relaxed. Take a few deep breaths and

self settle into a meditative state

your body of

relax, let

who you

am

Be

love.

still

in

feel at

are as you go inside yourself Release tension in

in

Allow your chest to expand and

fill

I

am

with your breath as you

do

love. this.

yourself as you repeat this phrase. Allow your gentle and tender in

your heart. Be the most ten-

person you can imagine being. Allow yourself to

thing about myself

I

am my own

best friend

in life

and

I

say:

trust

Experience a flow of energy moving through your heart and

your body as the love you for

your-

your chest and

your heart. Repeat the words to yourself

nature to emerge as you allow love to flow der; loving

let

ease and comfortable. Let

your emotions be tranquil and get a clear and strong sense

focus your awareness I

where you

Keep expanding

feel

this love

in

I

love everylove.

down through

expands to include people you know and care

to include everything around you and eventually

to include the whole planet. See the planet embraced

in

your arms and know

that you are healing the world as you send love out from your heart. Gently relax

love

and be in

your

at life.

peace with yourself as you

realize that

you are the source of

I


96

Vitality

To

vitalize

your heart do those things which make you happy.

what gives you joy and happiness.

for yourself

Here are some

It

may

It is

important to

know

be something very simple.

ideas.

Play with a child or a pet

Look

a beautiful garden

at

Walk by Laugh

the sea

funny film

at a

Work on your

car

Proceed with a creative project

Anything which makes you

happy and joyful

feel

is

good

give you the energy you need for doing the things in your

Being happy

some time

important. Take

is

people that give you joy in your

life

life that

to ask yourself

and watch your

for your heart

and

will

are less heartfelt.

what are the things and

vitality

pick up.

Empowerment When we make most

essential

the choice to

way because we

receptive to love

every

open your heart

I

is

is

my

to

is

Love

is

do

and happiness. Being

We

enhanced

in

Saying the following affirmation helps you

to

to let

this.

for love

love into our lives.

are

reason for being.

who for

making a choice

lives in the

to love.

allow love to come into

Love

are

how we choose

way when we choose

Love

open our hearts we are empowering our

I

am.

all.

my

life

and fill me with happiness and joy.

THE HEART CHAKRA

my

/

open

my

heart

and

I

open

my

heart

and accept others as

rejoice in

my pain and forgive

I release

97

being.

they are.

the past. I

am free

I

am

in tune with the love that fills the universe.

I

am

at one with all

to love.

life.

Love fills my heart with joy. Love

is

I share

the best thing for me.

my

love with all

I accept the love of all

who accept

who

give

it.

it.

Case Histories

Htamif^ Harriet

is

a

woman

divorced for

many

in her late forties with three children.

years.

She has been

She was chronically depressed and had not had a

meaningful or enduring relationship for some time. She'd had married

men

or those

who

lived far away.

with

affairs

She had sex with many men,

but always avoided real intimacy. This was also true in her relationships

with

women. As soon

as

anyone became too friendly with her she would

sabotage the friendship in some

Her

when

friends tended to be people

or for

who

some

would eventually leave

reason.

could help her and look after her

she got depressed. She attracted rescuers

become exasperated with her

tion.

way

who would

eventually

for not taking responsibility for herself.

her; and thus create an even deeper sense of

They rejec-

She was lonely and also very jealous of other people's happiness.

Her

heart remained closed through years of therapy and workshops.

Though she could

cry for her pain, she

still

denied love in her hfe. She

felt

CHAKRA.S

98


know how

she deserved love, but she did not

to give

Her immature and

it.

inappropriate defense patterns had been carried over from her early child-

hood when her

father

As an

grieving mother.

even though It

it

became

fine the

way

it

abandoned the family and she was needed

adult, she

to

choose

meant confronting her pain from

left to

help her

to let love into her life,

the past

and releasing

clear to her, after years of pretending, that her life

was. She needed to

make changes

in

it.

was not

her attitudes and look

within herself. She was going to have to choose love and find her happiness in giving to others with an open heart.

She enrolled on a healing course which gave her the opportunity

to

have meaningful contact with people. She struggled with a jealous and vindictive nature, but gradually

became conscious of her old

patterns and

stopped pushing others away. She created more opportunities for friendship

and

in her life

herself experience

let

how

Slowly her heart melted and she began terrified her,

and she was able

women. She was so desperate for

pushed

to her

desperately she longed for love.

to let love in.

Intimacy no longer

form deep friendships with both men and

to

fortunate that she chose to let love into her it

that she

was on

the brink of suicide.

When

knees before she opened her heart.

pain, she received everything she

had hoped for

It

in

her

life.

She was

took being

she did release her

life.

Thomas Thomas

is

a

man

in his early fifties

He wanted knowledge

who

so that he could

spent his

become a

life in

pursuit of learning.

great spiritual teacher.

spent mciny years studying Eastern and Western healing techniques, and a

member

of several spiritual organizations.

He was

was

divorced and had an

endless stream of

women

was always more

interested in developing his reputation

friends, but

He

no enduring intimate

He

relationships.

and

his

work

as a

healer than in pursuing a healthy and intimate relationship. In truth, his heart

was

closed.

He

fear they

would see

his vulnerability

healer he

demanded

that his clients

tic

nature

was

never

let

anyone close

and exploit him. Yet,

expose

to

him

in his

their pain to him.

for

work

as a

His voyeuris-

exploitative and manipulative of the people he treated.

THE HEART CHAKRA

His

life

was

filled

with an endless variety of activity which involved

other people, but no one could get too close to

few people his

tried to penetrate his defenses

knowledge

as a

because he was

skillful at

using

took several very painful situations to bring him to a place where he to ask others for help, but

opened

his heart.

He

when

the crisis passed he

struggled with his pride and

has, however, remained fixed in

make

for very long. Very

deficient in his capacity to love.

needed

He

him

weapon and keeping them away. He was very well

armed with knowledge, but It

99

was often very

this archetype,

feel safe

Loving

is

on our

enough

to

open

his heart. This choice has to

we

not dependent on the amount of knowledge

ability to

ourselves. This

everyone's realization about love.

From

we

be

his.

we have

this place

take the risk to be vulnerable, expose our pain and trust that

of love just as

one day

have, but rather

recognize in another that same need which

is

lonely.

unwilling or unable to

the shifts that he needs in order to find healing. Hopefully

he will

had not

still

we

in

we

are worthy

are.

Functional Archetype: The Lover

Recognizing The Lover Opening

to the

Lover archetype within ourselves means we

ourselves. Without

we

knowing who we

are

and foremost love

and understanding and accepting ourselves,

cannot fathom the power of love. Leaving behind the Actress/Actor archetype

creates the opportunity for change

and healing

ing for the spark of love to ignite the passions it

first

clears

away

and forced us

the dross of incomplete to shut

ourselves, love eases

and

to happen.

we have

Our

for

hearts are open, wait-

life.

As

unfulfilled experiences

down. As we choose love we also choose its

The Lover archetype

way

this

flame bums,

which created pain life.

As we

affirm

into every fiber of our being.

lives its life

loves people, animals, plants and

all

from a place of love. This of

life. It

is

an archetype which

especially loves and accepts itself as

whole and complete, and knows how absolutely worthy

it is

to receive love.


100

The Lover archetype open

to

we

happy are.

to

love

embraces everyone and everything and feeling everything

falling in love

of the Lover. The glowing energy of with love and joy. are

be

drawn

It

makes

in its radiant

its

things and no matter

love and

Its

who

or conditions.

how many

open

heart,

To

archetype expands and

Can you remember

fills

and happier place

life. It

because

Lover we

the

in

the energy

is

our whole being

which

to be.

we

energy feeds our deepest sense that

heart to

We

open heart of the Lover

world was beautiful? This

in the

this

its

It is

We

too can

to love.

has an on-going love affair with

obstacles are put in

way

its

will

it

life's

always choose

program

for

growth

joy melts hardened and resistant attitudes.

This archetype nature and

open

its

field.

accepts negativity and challenge as part of

life. It

and maturity.

to

the

energy

open and expansive when we open ourselves

this

capacity to love.

are and not judged.

moves through

the world a richer

Lover because

to the

The Lover has chosen all

Lover archetype with

who we

be

When

its

sphere and expresses respect and warmth.

its

are in the presence of the

feel well in ourselves,

are enough, perfect as it

neither exclusive nor limited in

anyone who comes within

know when we

we

is

are

Its

is

who

suited to those people

happy with

life. Its

joy

is

are free of spirit and generous

inner glow emanates from the center out and

The Lover draws people

to

it

wherever

by

not dependent on circumstances, places

it

goes and

is

is

all-embracing.

often cherished by children

and old people. They sense the Lover's abundant energy and are instantly attracted to

it.

The whole world loves a lover and

The Lover project in

is

The Lover

is

is

involved.

little

It

able to love with real gusto.

itself fully to

any situation or

has a great capacity to laugh and find joy in the

a wonderful archetype. life

is

has an ability to create joy where there was It is

ready to step over the

The Lover survives

peril.

joy and

it

life. It

marches through any

archetype

always affirmative and positive, giving

which

lighter side of

to

this

else matters without love. It

before.

depicted in the Tarot as the Fool

cliff into the abyss,

difficult times

has a profound sense of the moment.

little

because

The Lover

it

is in

loves to share

its

seemingly oblivious

knows

that life itself is a

touch with

good

its

feelings and

feelings.

miss the heaviness and despair of those people with highly developed

It

seems

intellects

suffer

from the pain they see around them. The Lover delights people with

ity to

make

is

a difficult situation

a tonic to their soul.

seem easy and people long

to

who

be near

it

to

who

its abil-

because

it

THE HEART CHAKRA

101

DEVELOPING THE LOVER Taking Responsibility For Yourself Taking responsibility for the love in our lives This means

we

a major part of our development.

is

when we've been

are able to forgive

hurt and let go of the past, releas-

ing our feelings and living in the present, the only place where love can be experi-

enced. Taking responsibility for this archetype means living actively in the loving everything that goes on in

life just as it is;

the frustration, as well as the fun, happiness, love

of

ours to cherish and love. All the things

life is

transformed

when we

experience which

is

love our

life just

the

way

now and and

the pain, the grief, the anger

and

we

it is.

serenity; the entire

feel that grind us

Love

is

spectrum

down can be

an active, present-based

not exclusive and includes the dirty and ugly as well as the

majestic and beautiful.

Love it is is

it all,

the gurus

tell us,

be with

it

and be one with

it.

Learning to love

it

as

we

experience this

we make

find dealing with the feelings that

you experience

in this exercise too difficult

part of our awakening,

and as

our lives a unique

expression of the love within us.

Exercise If

you

to handle, don't attempt 1 Forgiving

who

hurt

starts

it

until

you

feel

ready to work through what you have resisted.

and releasing the past takes courage. Are you willing

you and release

to forgive those

the pain of separation, hurt and loss? Forgiving usually

with forgiving our parents. They are the core relationship from which

we

form our character and from which we create the delusions which separate us from love.

Look

carefully at your parents or primary caretakers and be willing to for-

give them for their limitations to loving you. Release your feelings about not feeling that you had enough of what you wanted or deserved. Try to realize that they

were doing the best they could with forgive

them more

and

go of the

let

easily.

past."

You can

their

start

own

may

help you to

like: "I

forgive you

limitations. This

with a simple sentence

CHAKRA.S

102

2

Now move to

on

to forgive


anyone you

feel didn't love

you

in the

way you wanted

be loved. This can include former friends, lovers, partners, colleagues, teachers

and so on. These can be people from your past or from the present. Again, saying a simple sentence like the above will do.

Repeat the sentence and consciously

Your Higher

Self,

which

is

try to let

go of your resentment.

so closely linked to your heart, will protect you from

being overwhelmed by negative feelings that you are unable to handle. Trust yourself to find the love in

your heart that you need for

this exercise.

3 Forgive yourself for being hard on yourself, for your self-criticism and self-punishment.

You may have

in the past.

felt

it

was your

Love yourself now and be

desires and feelings.

Acknowledge

that

Be

it is

fault for not receiving the love

willing to

make

yourself right for your needs,

responsible for the love you want in your

your right

be loved and to give love

to

life.

fully.

Loving yourself is the most important thing you can do for yourself at Accept yourself and the situation you find yourself your heart and

let

love flow into your

you needed

in.

this

moment.

This acceptance will heal

life.

The Myth Of The Lover Archetype As we

accept the Lover archetype and deepen and enrich our sense of

self, it is

impor-

and acknowledge our own rightness. This means that the feelings we have are all right, as are the things we do, the way we think and even the way we behave. They all reflect the love or lack of love that we experience. When we collude with the dark, negative side of people or situations, we are saying there isn't enough love in our lives or that we are not capable of generating the tant to believe in

quantity of love sufficient to heal a situation or person. If

where

is it?

It is

Whom

not within us, then

to call to get it?

within every one of us to be able to love, heal and transform the pain, loss

and separation situation

do we need

it is

in this world.

and person

we

We

start

with ourselves and extend

encounter. This

is

how

this

love heals the world.

love to every

I

THE HEART CHAKRA

Many

people feel there

that love is literally all

within us.

We

When we

have

selves for

how

enough love

isn't

around us and

can choose to be

at

conflicts or difficult times

At times

it is.

value ourselves. Invariably

like this

we

in their lives.

we have

one with

103

As we develop we

learn

access to the love which resides deep love whenever

this

we need

remember

to

our hearts.

too easy to blame others or our-

all

it is

we open

to continue to love

find these times put us in touch with our

own

soft

and and

gentle feelings and this expands our awareness and let us accept ourselves and oth-

When we

ers with love. live

from

age of our past.

We

that

Love

is

what

you

attitudes

feel

on

you are unable

are cruel, angry or trying to get

we need

is

the love

we

we

to let

share with others.

have, what

when we

own

we

do,

where we

learn that

heart.

we

The path of

God's

live. It is

are love itself

the heart

we

as part of

are

in

to experience love then

your way. Did someone

it is

we

are

simple

is

tell

important to look

and

at the

you, consciously or uncon-

you weren't good enough for love? And did you believe

this

and take

your emotional reality? So many people believe they are not lov-

able. Part of the narcissism

we

sacred

living in the light of our

which are standing

sciously, that

as

we

dam-

the

truthful. If

this

is truly

not conditional on what

more capable of and

the heart, and

is

wounds can mend from

to us. In order to feel the joy that lives within

us as part of his love for us and

gift to

can, our

our inner light shine on the world around us, accepting, forgiving and

let

knowing

we

never heal the heart when

even for the hurt done

go and

connect to the deep center of being, which

this place as consistently as

that

of our culture

we must prove we

is

are

that

we

we are not enough we receive the love

truly believe

good enough before

so rightfully deserve. Resentment blocks our capacity to feel the love which

is

present for us.

The more we can openly acknowledge

we carry we free ourselves now and experiencing this is

the pain of our past hurts and release the

moment. Love

grief

to live in the light of the

the

the purpose of being here. Releasing the past, liv-

exists in

ing in the present and experiencing ourselves as the source of love and joy spiritual

growth

is

about.

is

what


104

MEDITATION Sit

a comfortable position

in

where you can be

breaths and release any tension you feel

up

Is

As you

deep

your body Bring your awareness

your Heart chakra. Feel the quality of energy which surrounds your

into

heart.

in

relaxed. Take several

heavy and leaden?

it

it

tight

and breathe gently say to

sit

and congested?

yourself:"!

Is

it

or

light

open my heart to

soft?

love.

I

choose

your heart expand as love moves through your body Trust that your

love." Feel

experience of

becomes

Is

energy

this

a part of your

real.

is

The more you

trust

in

love the

more

it

life.

Vitality

Some

activities seriously

damage

a sensitive heart. For instance,

drinking weaken the heart, both physically causing

smoking and heavy

damage and psychically blocking

energy coming into the Heart chakra. Excessive activity of any kind, even fun, can also be hard on the heart. This the center of balance and asks a balanced and healthy lifestyle to help

your behalf. The heart asks that

Are you doing anything heavily?

Do you smoke

tion? Everything

If

you can change your

without too

Your heart

much

will

activities. It is

stress

and

we

do.

getting

enough

rest,

play and affec-

which makes you happy keeps your heart healthy

and receive. lifestyle to give

strain then

your heart a chance

you are doing something

always support you by giving you the not just physical muscles which

vitality

pump your

to

for

list

for your Hfe's

blood, but an

of activities which are good for the heart include the following.

Seeing or phoning someone you love and enjoy being with or talking to Writing a

letter to

someone you miss

Taking photos of people and things you love and putting them somewhere

you can draw on

that love

whenever you look

at

them

you

to love yourself.

you need

life's

work

tional receptor for the love in our lives as well.

A

is

work on

Are you working too much? Drinking too

much? Are you

for yourself

to give

love ourselves in every activity

to excess?

or eat too

you do

and make love easier

we

it

emo-

THE HEART CHAKRA

Having a party for someone you love

to

105

honor them on

their birthday or

celebrate an achievement

Giving yourself flowers Smiling

at

yourself every time you catch your eye in the mirror

Watching a good romantic film or reading a wonderful love story

—

Wearing pink

the color of love

Empowerment The

affirmations

which help you

to

open your heart are designed

to feel comfortable with love. It is important to build

requires being affirmative and positive.

heart the

more

be said standing

open your heart

I

in front

Love

my

I

myself and love the

reason for

I love freely

and

Love opens me Love

is

that

and loving way. They can

of a mirror so you can see the love in your eyes and can

and

me

I

living.

new realms of being.

the center of

my

life.

know myself to

within. I

unconditionally.

to

I choose to love.

am.

release pain, doubt

one with the universal force is

and

The more you can be yourself and open your

to yourself in a gentle

and accept myself just as

am perfectly

am

trust in love

to yourself.

I forgive the past in love

I

encourage you

easily love can flow in your Hfe.

Say the following affirmations

/ love

your

to

am

be.

and fear.

one with

love.


100

/ trust in love.

I i^ivc

myself the

Uirf^est

share of

my own

love.

Love moves through me and connects me with the source of life. Love heals me and

sets

my

spirit free.

Case Histories -

Many

years ago

I

Charlie

met a fellow searcher named Charlie who embodied the

essence of the Lover archetype to me.

He was

highly intelligent and had

studied physics at university before he

left for

a period of time to

Antarctica.

He came back

with esoteric healing and

spirituality.

"Enlightenment Intensive" question "Tell

in

me who you

I

London.

met him

from me, holding the

Sitting across

he began to

radiate such an intensely powerful energy that people around

This man was having a

field.

He had

sure that wherever he

love around him.

is

everyone to

their core that afternoon.

hearts as a result of being

directly touched our spirits with his

now, he

He was

to

was wide open.

Each of us experienced an opening of our own energy

him began

direct experience of himself as the source of

love. His awareness of that touched

in his

in

workshop called an

in a

are," as a meditation exercise,

either cry or laugh. His Heart chakra

work

became involved

a very conscious man, and

is

creating this

same intense

and

I

feel

feeling of

a rare and wonderful person to know.

Gabrielle RothI

met Gabrielle Roth

in

America. She was teaching dance workshops

at

Esalen Institute in Big Sur, California and, after being introduced to her

and feeling the warmth and love radiating from

her,

I

knew

that

I

wanted

THE HEART CHAKRA

to learn

more about her way of working with people; using dance, music

and mystery

was

felt I

them open

to help

and sharing. real

to the joy

in the presence of a gracious

workshops gave

Participating in her

and

I

and beauty within themselves.

and good

me

compassion for

to her workshops.

their limitations.

I

gifted teachers

20 years I

was sharing

later, is still

know. Her

intensity that she dazzles

has the capacity to heart.

a profound experience of love

I

was transformed by

me

in

the

way

and the people who came

an experience of love.

one of the most beautiful

light shines

you with her vibrancy. She

move hundreds

women and

through with such a luminous truly loves life,

of people with her wit,

and

humor and open

She works with the body, moving, opening, exploring and enjoying

the rhythms of life flowing in and through us. live

heart.

wasn't alone in feeling the love around me. Everyone

participated with her

Gabrielle,

I

witnessed her capacity to heal and help people with love

she brought out the joy and sense of fun in

who

107

and express themselves from

threatening way. She heart expresses.

is

She helps people learn

their hearts in a gentle, joyful

to

and non-

an example of the joy and beauty that an open

THE THROAT CHAKRA Truth, communication, integrity, will

power and

creativity

DYSFUNCTIONAL ARCHETYPE: The Silent Child

FUNCTIONAL ARCHETYPE: The Communicator

HOW THE THROAT CHAKRA FUNCTIONS The Throat chakra

is

very vulnerable and easily exposed to external influences.

It sits

close to the surface of the physical body and channels mental energy to our minds

and hearts

to give a voice for

our feelings, thoughts and experiences.

This area of the body has so protect

it,

little

protection, just as a

young child has

little

and can be easily damaged. Where other centers are protected by muscle,

representing the forces of the ego, the Throat chakra

is

exposed and can be unbal-

anced even by draughts and temperature changes. Indeed, when you watch young dren

who

This

feel timid they tuck their chins is

we need

for expressing ourselves. This can take

always an expression of our

spirit

which

Whether we use our speaking voice

we make a energy we use for

is

helps us direct the

creativity

in truth

and with

where we but

to express ourselves or use gesture, colors,

statement about ourselves.

is

It is

many forms

released.

music, dance or writing,

The Throat chakra

chil-

over their throats to protect their vulnerability.

the center for self-expression, creativity and will power.

harness the energy it is

to

and communication.

strengthened and enhanced each time

integrity. It acts as a bridge

The Throat chakra

we

express ourselves

between our feelings centered

in the

THE THROAT CHAKRA

Heart chakra and our thoughts focused in the flooded with energy, which

more healthy

throat or, in a

there

is

no

is

Brow

unexpressed emotion,

outlet,

it

109

it

When

chakra.

either stagnates

bridge

this

and blocks the

gets channeled into creative expression.

some form of expression must be found

outlet to express feelings

is

When

to vent

unexpressed emotions.

The archetypes

for this chakra naturally focus

communication, or our lack of its

true self

who

away and

is

silenced

takes responsibility for

and

clarity, direction

it.

on the quality and

intensity of our

These archetypes are the Silent Child, who hides

by shame and

its life

hurt,

and the Communicator, the adult

and speaks up for what

it

wants and needs with

integrity.

Dysfunctional Archetype: The Silent Child

Recognizing The Silent Child The

Silent Child

is

an archetype describing levels of suppression where feelings of

frustration,

anger and sometimes violence have not been expressed. This archetype

holds on to

its

energy

this

feelings

and does not reveal

channeled into

is

artistic

its

hurt, pain or

anger openly. Sometimes

or creative pursuits. At other times

it

simply

sits

and stagnates, producing a limited and depressed personality. This archetype stays closed in order not to reveal

The

Silent Child in

get safely locked

jokingly hiding

its

intense pain and sorrow, or

abuse or wounding hides

away and

its

its

are not openly aired.

true feelings.

The

It

its

It

will suppress

its creativity. Its

life-force

Substance abuse numbs and mutes the

on

to. It

any

cost,

it.

has

It

expense of

into creative action but

tion or rejection.

its

what

is

it

its

will not

grief or despair, this arche-

becomes weakened.

spirit

which

is

wellbeing and pleasure.

expose

its

feelings

its

too frightening or

why

the Silent Child it is

a contract with itself to remain closed and not reveal

at the

feelings

Its

dampen

doesn't want to have to experience or express the pain

made

even

pain and shame.

learns to feel safe in silence or

painful to express. Unfortunately, in order not to feel

attracted to

abuse.

Silent Child archetype can

with drugs, tobacco, alcohol and food.

type will not express

its

It

may

its

channel

is

holding pain at

this

pain

true vulnerability for fear of recrimina-


no

The Throat chakra its

vivacity and

life

force

meant

is

this center

Silent Child resists

expressed to

it

and

The

opening to what

The

life

may

—

contract,

and

familiar with difficult or even

is

has been deeply affected by what was

has chosen to close off rather than share what

it

force

the others as well

perceives to be a threatening situa-

it

itself

Silent Child

archetype will have to struggle to counts.

all

feelings.

has been silenced for expressing

It

threatening situations.

—and

the Silent Child suppresses

be expressed. The throat gets closed off when

to

words and

the Silent Child swallows

tion.

makes

it

imploding energy which

The

when

naturally very dehcate and

is

make

find non-verbal

itself

feels.

it

heard and to feel that what

ways of expressing

it

itself as well, for

This says

exam-

ple in dance, dramatics or music.

The its

Silent Child

and

fears

is

sensitive

and

tears, believing that

or punished.

It

ural integrity

will lie to

and

cover up and protect

The

to

it.

and ask for what years of

is

what

it

itself.

This

work and

it

its

development

consciousness. Yet

speak up for

to

is

They

come

itself

it is

and

to

in

they

may be

Silent Child

be able to express reprisal. It

If there

its

needs

may

take

up

mourning It

this loss

it

was never heard sinks

into

of self that the Silent Child learns

may have such

a constricted throat that actual

When

the feelings

released as grunts and groans, shouts and infantile tantrums.

may go

or listens to them. If this

and change

in life.

and rage for needs which were never met and a per-

be heard.

reflect the original pain

The

to one's nat-

not important to those

words may not express the feeUngs which have been held back. start to

being rejected

damaging

wants without the fear of punishment or

vading feehng of frustration when the awareness that

to

it

holds back

patient and gentle awareness before the Silent Child will speak

for itself. There can be grief

its

is

It

what one wants

essential to having

wants or cares about

will struggle throughout

It

feels will lead to

change the Silent Child mentality

Silent Child feels that

around

of separation acutely.

it

limits the free flow of creative energy as well as the innate aware-

ness that speaking up for one's self

Beginning

feels the pain

expressing what

of not being seen, loved or heard.

through

is so, it

life

projecting on to the world that no one loves

must own

its

projection in order to heal

its

wounds

I

its reality.

has been

emotional suppression in the past the throat

point for the unexpressed fears, tears and anger which were not said.

becomes

the focal

The neck muscles

THE THROAT CHAKRA

will

become

and

rigid

feel like strong cords

sore throats, problems with the tions are blocked.

become

tight.

and need

No

The jaw

in its

sorrow. This

mouth and jaw and hearing

tightens and the

The

Silent Child has

development and has had

becomes a recurring

This archetype

may even

believe

of the degree of suppression

it

mouth and

and unfriendly

it is

to

swallow

its

its

they

we

its

itself in

is

true for

order to survive.

feel

truth at

and

guilt

because

does not

this is so if the

its

environment as

even to express

its

need for contact.

is

it

It

experiences

It

relates to creativity

affirming energy. Creative expression its

joy as well as

incapable of knowing what

and personal expression, and

creativity that the Silent Child transmutes its negative

out of

emo-

the

lips lose their sensuality;

and may not even know why

to ask for help or

The Throat chakra

Many

when

pattern in later life if not recognized and changed.

or neglect happened in early childhood.

come

difficulties

been prevented from speaking

has imposed on

feel safe expressing its feelings

tile

of tension. There can also be chronic

other center shows so vividly or so quickly the emotions

to express.

some point

HI

abuse

far too hos-

it is

through

emotions into positive,

life-

what opens the doors for the Silent Child

to

dark cavern of pain and enter the world of light and kinship.

creative people have experienced childhood trauma and live out the Silent

Child archetype. They

act,

sing or perform to express the vital energy they have sup-

pressed. Everyone needs the space to express their thoughts, dreams and hopes in a

meaningful way. This

is

part of our

freedom and a signpost of our

pity is often the result of not being listened to or being believed.

inner reality and communicate

needs to express

its

release for

This

itself.

is

how

its

individuality. Self

The

Silent Child

sensitivity to find a positive

to transform the pain.

MOVING ON FROM THE SILENT CHILD Taking Responsibility For Yourself Taking responsibihty for our thoughts and feehngs feel

and expressing our needs

earth.

When we

damage and

to others

can

may be

feel like the

easy but saying what

we

most threatening thing on

are faced with exposing our vulnerability, feeling the degree of our

pain, or taking the risk of looking foolish

and being

rejected,

we keep

our thoughts and feelings to ourselves. Overcoming our timidity and shyness seems


112

formidable task and expressing our real self takes courage.

like a

sense of self acceptance to realize that what If

we want

to heal

truth about our pain.

who

is

we need

We

to

can do

we have

to say

is

It

takes a strong

important and valuable.

be willing to express our feelings and speak the

this

with a friend, a partner or a therapist, someone

on our side and who values us

whole and complete.

for our efforts at being

Keeping our feelings hidden doesn't serve our physical or emotional health and

makes others responsible municate

we

someone

is

we are who is

for

knowing what we want and need. As

are able to take the load off others to

really able to

be there for us

alone with the pain

we can

in

know what we want and

our emotional turmoil

we

it

who com-

adults

need. If

are blessed. If

ask for help from a minister, a priest or anyone

professionally capable of supporting others through crisis. Holding our pain

how

inside does not serve our well-being or growth. Learning

to

communicate

is

essential for our development.

Exercise 1

Reflect on a situation in your

unable to express yourself.

you feeling

that if

life

when you wanted

to say

Remember what you were

something and were

feeling at the time.

you spoke up you would be laughed

at or

Were

ignored? Were you

Did you remain quiet

afraid of not being recognized or of not being listened to?

but harbor resentment?

2 Visualize

again and allow yourself to express what you would have

this situation

liked to say at the time.

You may

and ideas were valu-

realize that your thoughts

able and that you had something important to contribute. Realizing this feelings of sadness or anger at not having been listened to. to

come

to the surface

and give yourself the opportunity

go of any feelings of humiliation or

3

Now

fear

to yourself as

you

Allow these

to experience

feelings

them. Let

which you associate with them.

me and

who

am." Repeat

this

over

integrate the truth of this into your awareness.

You

say to yourself: "People listen to

and over

may evoke

value

I

may wish to consider the possibility that if it may be that they are not ready to hear what you have to tell them. Perhaps you may want to be with people who do want to know what you are able to share with them. As you open yourself to new possibilities for your self expression be

some people can't hear what you have

to say

aware

that

your contribution

is

important to others as well as yourself.

THE THROAT CHAKRA

4 Consider keeping a journal

may be

surprised at

or others.

You

how

in

which you write down your feehngs and

astute your thoughts


will also

and having the space

The Myth Of The

individual.

as though there

little

your way of giving your-

the din of traffic, television

a conspiracy to

is

and piped music

drown out

the voice of the

people in high places have also been caught lying.

validation for tranquillity or for speaking the truth.

people become uncomfortable with their feelings and shy away from

expressing them

when

there

is

space in which to open up.

ing our personal truths, saying what

we have

integrity

is

misconceptions and neg-

Archetype

Silent Child

Many well-known

There seems to be

Many

It is

You

be heard.

to

Our voices can hardly be heard over that is all around.

ideas.

and perceptions are about yourself to see the

which are blocking your happiness. This

ative attitudes self a voice

113

little

is real

for us

And

yet without express-

and living from the depth of our

chance of developing into whole and balanced individuals

capable of sustaining deep and intimate relationships.

Look

at the

myths of the

feelings. Perhaps as a child

silence with compliance this

was

true.

unhappiness

For many

at

were allowed

home.

Silent Child

you were

it

was permissible

It is

important to

some

to

how you

to say or that

feel

and be good. You associate

be happy but not to express sadness or

know level

the level of personal expression

your unwillingness or

to

now. You

may

your contribution

inability to

you

speak

speak the truth or express yourself as a child?

you were not allowed personal expression you may

to say

go of your suppressed

your present experiences.

will persist into

Did your parents encourage you If

told to be quiet

to let

and speaking out with rebellion. Certainly for many of us

as a child because at

up for yourself then

and be willing

find

it

frustrating

believe that people don't care for

isn't important.

You need

and

difficult

what you have

to feel comfortable with

expressing your truth.

Are you willing

to give

your thoughts and feelings room to be expressed? What

about writing a poem, telling a story or finding another creative form which

lets

you

express your imagination and inner reality?

Give yourself the pleasure of opening yourself in

whatever form appeals to you.

It

to the beauty of self expression

helps strengthen your being in every way.

CHAKRAi;

114


MEDITATION where you can

a quiet place

Sit in

and easy Release any

stress

throat, tongue, the inside of

any tension

in

you

relax.

feel in

Allow your breathing to become slow

your body Bring your attention to your

your mouth and the back of your neck

these areas release

it

If

you

find

by breathing into them. Allow your breath

to open your throat, relax your tongue and soften your hard palate. Imagine that the area of your hard palate

jaw into

is

relaxing. Let

widening across your face and that your

your vocal chords relax and

let

your breath pass

your lower back, expanding your waist as you

Visualize the back of

your

own

truth.

It

your throat.

This

will

the

light

as a beautiful blue light

of truth and

helps you to tap

it

enters the Throat chakra to help ease your fears about

expressing yourself Visualize this into

is

down deep

inhale.

your neck relaxing and opening

enters the back of your neck. This into

is

light

becoming more intense

help you to speak up for yourself

It

you breathe

as

energizes your Throat chakra and

stimulates your will-power, your creativity and your ability to communicate.

a consequence of expressing yourself you are able to enjoy piness and well-being. By saying tension.

You now have the

be heard and your

feelings

it

is

As you

health, hap-

what you want and need you ease your inner

ability

to say what you wish and to trust you

will

acknowledged. Everyone enjoys what you have to

say Allow yourself to say out loud Please help me."

good

As

"I

want

sit silently listen

...

(fill

in

the blanks).

I

need

...

to the words and respect whatever

that you desire.

Vitality

There are many good ways to energize your Throat center. Singing

most fun way. Singing tice the

is

putting words to the joy in your heart.

whispered "ahs" used

in the

the tip of the tongue against the lower in

the

back teeth with the

jaw loose and

the best and

You could

Alexander Technique. This

through the nose and release your lower jaw to

is

is

also prac-

done by placing

lips slightly parted.

make

Breathe

the sound of "ah."

relaxed. Practice this five times in a row.

It

Keep

helps to release the

tension in the pelvis and lower back as well as the throat. There

is

a very strong

THE THROAT CHAKRA

115

connection between the two centers and by releasing the throat you energize the pelvis.

Here are some other suggestions for energizing the Throat.

Chanting Learning the drums

Keeping a journal

which you can safely record your thoughts and

in

perceptions

Painting your self portrait

Listening to nature

Saying no to

—

people

to

to the

when

dawn

chorus, to the

wind and

rain

they ask you to do something you don't want

do

Shouting your anger somewhere where you won't be overheard

Empowerment The

way

best

can. This to say

to

means

empower to

yourself

is

to speak

your truth in the clearest way

"walk your talk" as the native Americans

what you mean and mean what you say

is

say.

what gives you

Having the credibility.

lowing affirmations can be said out loud to help you empower your

your voice.

What

I have to say

is

valuable to others.

I delight in expressing myself

By expressing my Creativity

The

is

my

truth sets

and

I appreciate being listened

truth others find the

way

to their truth.

birthright.

me free.

I

open myself to my

I

speak from

my

truth. I listen to

heart.

and honor

myself.

to.

self

that

you

integrity

The

fol-

and find


116

/

honor my inner

My

my

voice resonates with

I delight in

I

voice.

harness

my

sharing

my

depth, beauty

my

I

am a joyful and

I

express the beauty

truth.

truth with others.

will-power to serve

E.xpression reflects

and

my

greatest

good and highest joy.

individual nature.

creative soul.

and

love of myself in everything I do.

Case Histories Marie Marie

is

a

raised her son

young woman on her own

in her mid-thirties.

She married young and

after divorcing his father.

She worked as a

cleaner in a hair salon, and suffered with chronic asthma and

was plagued

with migraine headaches. She smoked and drank heavily, especially on

weekends and holidays.

In the evening,

when she was

sad music and drank a bottle or more of wine. She

felt

lonely, she played

her

life

was over

at

37 and had no hopes or dreams for her future. All her longings were transferred into hopes for her son.

She occasionally indulged

other recreational drugs, and generally

felt far

in cannabis

and

worse for using them. She

disliked her job and felt miserable about her life

most of the time.

Because of her tendency for substance abuse, her willpower was weakened and

it

was

difficult for

which required a sustained

Whenever she resolved habits. This cycle

to

her to find her

act of will

change her

undermined

all

way forward

was too much life,

she would

in life.

Anything

effort for her. fall

back into her old

her efforts to help herself.

When I met her for treatment, she how she was never allowed to express

spoke a

bit

about her childhood and

herself. Neither her family

husband had given her feelings any importance. She

felt

nor her

sure she would

THE THROAT CHAKRA

never achieve anything in her

ment

life. I

117

suggested she try homeopathic

treat-

and physical symptoms. After a few treatments, when

for her mental

she had an acute flare-up of her throat problems, she stopped smoking and drinking. This

made

her

think about

start to

how

she had abused her body

in the past.

As she

started to feel better in herself, she

proved

was able

The work grew and she was given new

local business.

to find a job in a

responsibilities.

She

be both bright and worth her weight in gold to her employers,

to

who needed

a trustworthy and responsible assistant. She gave up her clean-

ing job and retrained to develop skills which would help her go further in

her

new

career.

willpower.

One

She stopped drinking, cut out drugs and developed stronger of the benefits of her transformation was that she stopped

having sore throats and headaches. She after her health.

and she

Her voice

is

is

deeper and

feels she has a right to

now

richer.

full

of vitality and looking

She looks

new person

like a

speak up for what she wants for herself.

John John

a teacher in a large educational institution.

is

He

experienced

constant difficulties defining his job status in a department rife with intrigue

and dissension. He never knew where he stood, or even

would have

from one term

his job

to the next.

He

if

he

tried to placate his

bosses by working overtime for no extra pay, seeing students late in the

evening and trying to show everyone what a likeable person he was. Hard as he tried, he couldn't

worked under. They

He was

communicate

his needs to the people

either failed to listen to

him

whom

he

or blatantly ignored him.

desperate for recognition and to be heard. This, in fact, was a

re-enactment of old family patterns where no one paid him attention or tened to his needs.

busy trying

to

He came from

make ends

lis-

a large family where his parents were

meet. They didn't have time for their

own emo-

tional needs, let alone those of their son.

As we him

all

tend to do, he re-created a

heal his childhood wounds.

He knew

life situation

that

it

which would help

was important he be heard


118

and he worked

develop his voice.

to

On

an inner plane he started meditat-

ing and listening to what his intuition told him.

He began

defining and

expressing his boundaries clearly and stopped taking on work for which he

was not

He

paid.

which had been seriously

started to value his talent,

taken for granted by his bosses. Eventually they did acknowledge him, and

and willingness to make

started appreciating his consistency

ment work.

coincided with his inner awareness of his

It

their depart-

own

Eventually, his personal expression and his self worth

value.

became

Telling the truth about his feelings and recognizing his needs

He found

ority in his life.

when he spoke

that

the truth about

problems cleared up

how he

felt.

faster

He was more

stronger.

became

and didn't

a prifester

deeply in touch

with his creativity as a result and began a writing course which eventually led to the publication of his

and

first

novel.

He developed

both his inner voice

his outer voice.

Functional Archetype: The Communicator

Recognizing The Communicator

commu-

Releasing the Silent Child archetype frees us to become clear and effective nicators.

As

how we

feel

ally saying

the fear

and doubts dissolve and we take responsibility for expressing

and what we want

how

it is

in life,

doors begin to open for

for us dissipates negative energy

and

lets

us.

Somehow

more of what

is

actu-

good

come our way. The Communicator

is

the quintessential archetype of our time.

one whose job or personal well-being tion.

is

It

relates to any-

dependent on clear and direct communica-

This also includes people involved in non-verbal communication such as

art,

music and dance. In an age where technology has provided us with several options for

improving the quality of our communication

this

archetype

is

essential to inte-

grate into our lives.

Technology has enabled us within seconds.

I

focused and

We

clear.

to

have direct communication anywhere

in the

are responsible for delivering quality communication which

This

is

communication based on

intent

world

is direct,

and delivered, hopefully, with

THE THROAT CHAKRA

integrity.

The Communicator

tent of

Speaking up and being heard

Communicator speaks from

what

for

it

says.

It

whom

with alacrity and purpose.

It

it is

an essential component of

is

professionally and

has a proper regard for the con-

Higher Self and expresses

its

take responsibihty for

Words have weight, and both

it.

Communicator stands

message and a sense of respect for those with

its

who

an archetype for people

is

what they say and how they say personally the

119

this archetype.

neither gossips, criticizes nor curses and has a special

archetype their communication

all

self,

cheats or

it lies,

So

sincerely.

the

mindful that

is

is

words are taken

knows

Even saying

that its spirit is dimin-

the

words

can wound and hurt

wound

careful not to

if

"I love you,"

they are not said

or hurt with what

it

acteristic

hopes.

of

It is

its

agreements and to foster

this archetype. It

sincere and backs

of congruency between what

does not

up it

its

tion

say.

words with

says and what

and anyone

Many

it is

its

it

down

is

to.

implies. willing-

the strongest char-

with empty promises or false

right action.

There

is

a strong sense

does.

delivers their

words honestly and means

word, can be trusted with

to stand firm in the face

vital

informa-

of opposition to be true to

itself

connected with.

know

people today

guistics of the

who

This archetype stands by

and can be relied upon

and well-being

trust

people

let

This archetype represents anybody

what they

says and

and experienced by those being spoken

in

When this archetype says it is your friend you can bank on the trust that When it says it will do something, it does so to the best of its ability. This ness to keep

this

and the exercise of the mind which are

grandiose.

to our well-being,

Communicator

its

who embody

enhanced by the connection between the deep core

linked by a clear intention to relate. This archetype

which are so important

is

is

the inner workings of the heart

ished every time

The

feelings and thoughts

its

regard for the gravity of the spoken and written message. For those

of the

in contact.

New Age

the right

words

to say, especially in the psycholin-

or the business parlance of the market place, but few have

either the life experience or the personal integrity to

say as well. So the Communicator

is

be able

to stand for

what they

an archetype that has sterling virtue in a world

where the sleaze factor runs high and where words are cheap.

The Communicator comes

all

is

a positive model for our age.

levels of negativity through being direct

lends energy and vitality to

focused in what

it

says.

and the healing power

its

communication, and there

The Communicator knows that

It is

and

comes from

it.

an archetype which over-

positive. is

The Communicator

a high degree of intention

the importance of the spoken

word


120

The Communicator speaks both expresses well.

it

and when

its

mind and

feeling gentle and

is

open

heart.

its it

choice.

trust, reliability

Its

The Communicator understands

free choice,

show

actions

its

angry

is

it

is

it

that as

a strong

and groundedness which offers confidence and freedom of

words are not mesmerizing or hypnotic. There

ulate or coerce.

When

not afraid to

is

also encourages others to speak their truths. Implicit in

It

sense of

from

it

is

no need

to either

manip-

that only the best things are created

and gives others the freedom and space

to

make

their choices.

This archetype knows that clear communication helps people feel well in themselves and that being understood lets people

intimacy can only it

feels, others

The

there

is trust


intentions of the

communication deep

come when

frees

it

to

know and

it

they are valued.

knows

that

knows

It

when

it

that true

expresses

how

respond from their feelings as well.

Communicator

are as clear as

integrity.

its

from complications and helps

it

to stay

Open and

direct

connected to

its

core.

DEVELOPING THE COMMUNICATOR Taking Responsibility For Yourself The Communicator words.

What

words

reflect

this

is

committed

means

is

that the

both integrity and

Everyone knows learn to allow our

that

words

to both

its

congruency and

integrity in

Communicator does what

it

its

actions and

it

will do. Its

says

highest intention.

words have power. They can hurt us or heal to reflect our

wisdom and our

inner core than

us.

When we

we

will

have

achieved a very high level of development. Taking responsibility for what we say and how we say it is important. We don't need to be clever as much as honest, or amusing as much as clear in our communication. Words help us to connect our minds to our hearts. Words can heal us. When we take responsibility for what we feel and express what we want to say our words ring true. When we function as responsible communicators we bridge the gap between our mind and our feelings. We open the doors to

being touched by the

Communication, when

spirit it is

of love embodied within every person's deep center.

conscious, can help us to find our

way back

to ourselves.

THE THROAT CHAKRA

121

Exercise This

exercise

useful

is

Communicator archetype

opening up the Throat chakra and allowing the

in

to evolve.

uses the words and expressions most people

It

either resist saying or hearing.

1

Look I

in the mirror

and say out loud

love you." Allow your feelings to

to yourself:

come

"You

are beautiful/handsome

to the surface as

you look

and

your eyes.

in

Let your words heal your pain and soothe away any sadness. Keep telling yourself these

words

until

you

your fears and loneliness

feel

2 In your mind's eye visualize someone who has hurt you

start to

melt away.

See

in the past.

if

you can

permit yourself to say those healing words to that person. Watch their pain begin to melt

away

their defenses. This

may seem

unreal to you at

first

but

release your attachment to seeing this person in a negative light.

energy to flow in the present with love and

where your

It

will help

your

frees

connects you back to your deep core

truth is love.

3 Think of someone to

it

it

to

communicate your

whom

you would

feelings.

like to say

something but find

it

See them in your mind's eye and, looking

difficult at

them,

allow yourself to say whatever you want to share with them about what you are feeling.

Communicate how you

positive and as intense as

wish to

4

Now

you need them

mind's eye, this take a

let

someone with

whom

to

clear,

be in order to communicate what you

you are angry. Holding

yourself say clearly and directly

deep breath and

As long

as

you

let

you through

how you

feel.

their

image

in

your

After you have done

your feelings go. Find your tranquil center and begin

are clear about

hold that intention in your energy.

back

to

words be

say.

visualize

to relax.

are truly feeling to them. Let your

It

what you want

will be experienced

their willingness to

to say to others

by others

communicate with you.

you

will

and may come


122

The Myth Of The Communicator Archetype Each culture has

its

own myths

be empowered, then

you

feel.

of others.

it

is

important to learn

as important to

It is

Many

Few

about what can and cannot be communicated.

of us dare truly express our anger, negativity or even joy openly. But,

make

how

if

to express yourself

yourself understood as

it is

to

you want

to

and say what

be understanding

people wish they could say what they feel but lack confidence or

are afraid they will be rejected if they express themselves.

Trusting that what you have to say If

convey

your

that

energy and

facilitate

rience yourself in a totally

Unfortunately

in

is

good

ability to share

new way when you

your

spiritual

growth

your feelings. You may expe-

dare to speak up about

how you

feel.

with meaningless exchanges

and slander. These actually damage your energy

field, par-

Throat chakra. They can also leave you feeling depressed and drained.

To keep your

spirits uplifted

it is

say and what you hear. There

is

important to be positive and affirming in what you

so

much

negativity in

communication so

while being discerning about what you expose yourself

Learning to communicate what frees

for

your worth than your words will

many people equate communication

like complaints, gossip

ticularly the

valuable

is

you believe

and psychological development.

is

to

worth

to.

bothering you, without making

you from any attachment you may have

it is

your feelings.

it

significant,

When you

can

state

simply what you are feeling then you are not holding on to your emotions or making

them more

significant than they are.

the flow of energy

have

to

times

it

As you

which goes with being

be always serious and intense;

can even be quite funny and

it

express positive feelings you'll enjoy

affirmative. Clear

communication doesn't

can be the truth simply

stated.

And some-

light hearted.

MEDITATION Sit in

a comfortable position, with your back straight and your neck and jaw

relaxed and free. Take several as

you take the

air in

deep breaths and

through your nose and slowly release

your nnouth. As you free the nnuscles gently

fall

release your jaw. Let

in

your neck

towards the back of your throat.

let

it

it

be free

out through

your tongue relax and

THE THROAT CHAKRA

123

Visualize an inverted pyrannid with a shining blue light radiating

center of yourThroat chakra.This pyramid

nose and throat.

It

frees tension

up your mouth and

lights

your vocal chords and

in

down

at the

the

in

jaw,

your

back of your

neck. See this energy strengthening

yourThroat chakra so that you are able

to concentrate energy

As you breathe and

can

now

in this

area.

what you need to communicate to

say

release tension you

Allow yourself to

others.

that you are completely understood and don't have to struggle to say

you

feel

what

feel.

Your words come ings.

Know

easily

and express your clearest thoughts and deepest

that you have a right to speak up and that others

Your words are

now

an expression of a deepen

do

listen

more harmonious

feel-

to you. of

level

awareness within you.

As you

bring your awareness back to the outer world

moment and you. Be

still

feel

in

your inner

reality

and connect

sit

silence for a

in

with feeling the world around

it

you are comfortable.

silence for as long as

Vitality

The Throat chakra discharges excess energy lodged released.

You can

to release

from an self.

release

in the

body which needs

some excess energy by saying words such

NO

as

and

to

be

YES

pent-up aggression and frustration. These words can represent the feelings

entire range of situations

you have been

Often the words stay stuck inside

You can surface. Put

vitalize

until

you

in

where you didn't express your-

them

feel able to free

up.

your Throat chakra by lying on your back on a warm, but firm,

your knees up and

rest the

palms of your hands on your belly as you

take a deep breath in and release your breath slowly out through your mouth. Allow a sound to ities

as

come up from deep

your pelvis. Play with different pitches and qual-

of the sounds you are making. So often

when we As you

you

in

we

are

mute when we

are sad. Let this be a joyful exercise as

release the sounds

from your

throat,

feel relaxed

and energized

a more open and expressive Throat chakra.

happy

as well

you play with sound.

imagine they have a color and that

are actually painting with sound. This will let

and harmonies. You will

are

you make at the

rich blends of noises

end of

this exercise,

with


124

You can

also try the following.

poem

Reciting a

out loud

Inviting friends around for an evening of telling funny stories or jokes

TV

Singing folksongs or your favorite Sharing

life stories

Learning to

theme tunes

with trusted friends

your perceptions of others and keeping a journal of

trust

first

impressions

Empowerment When

you express your

truth

you

feel

joyful and

full

of positive energy.

voice sounds

flat

and

is

When someone

is

depressed noticed

how

their

lifeless.

To empower yourself you need yourself.

good about yourself and your communication

The more you hold on

to

to

be willing

to take risks with

how you

your feelings the more congested and

express

tight

actual vocal apparatus becomes. Saying the following affirmations out loud lets

your

you

experiment with being playful, serious, funny, angry or sad. Be willing to act the

clown and enjoy expressing yourself /

new way.

speak up for myself.

Others value what I have to I listen to

my

I

am

I

speak from

speak

my

my feelings.

heart.

my feelings and

my

say.

inner voice.

entitled to express

I listen to

I

in a

truth

and

I trust in the integrity

express them in an appropriate way.

I allow others to speak theirs.

of my words.

THE THROAT CHAKRA

As

I express

my words

I select

My

voice

I

am

I

know

myself I open

with care

powerful and

is

developing that I

am

my

my

creativity.

and

love.

depths of my inner being.

reflects the

speak

integrity every time I

love

and

125

my

that as I express myself

truth.

my

beauty shines.

Case Histories Lorraine Lorraine

is

a homeopathic doctor in her early forties

dent several years ago and seriously

might never be able

to

damaged her

who

throat.

suffered an acci-

She was

told she

speak again. She underwent several painful opera-

tions and, finally, with great effort

and considerable willpower, managed

to

She suffered a great deal of pain

partially regain the use of her voice.

through the ordeals of surgery and yet managed to internalize her compas-

who

sion to such a degree that anyone

by her presence. She

room

lems.

my

to

working with others

that people feel better before they

When

life,

committed

around her feels instantly uplifted

and brings such a degree of intention and

capacity,

ing

is

is

I

met

her, I

in a healing

light into her consult-

have even told her

had the experience, perhaps for the

of being truly understood.

experience this was, even

among

quahty of understanding others

is

I

realized

what a

other homeopaths.

rare I

am

their prob-

first

time in

and unusual sure that this

a function of her intent to be present in

her conmiunication and to provide the space for others to express themselves to the best of their ability.

Because speaking requires such hard work on

her part, she must focus her intention. Whatever she has had to say to

has been taken in and assimilated because effort

it

value her

wisdom and

the

has taken her to communicate with me.

She does not waste energy on to

I

me

be negative about her

infirmity.

superficial talk nor does she allow herself

She represents the

true

Communicator


126

archetype, both in her ability to say what she to the

communications of

means and

in

her receptivity

others.

Andy Andy

is

a consultant to senior level managers in the business world.

in his mid-forties,

man. He

is

holds a degree in psychology and

also a family

man who

is

He

is

an active sports-

has good relations with his partner and

his children.

Nearly everyone

ungrounded

in

the ability to feels that

what he says

make room

is

because he has a

never bombastic, nor

is

he

for others to express their feelings and,

truths.

loves music and often will play a beautiful song, rich in feeling, to

he

is

is

uncertain or doesn't

ashamed

way of being

is

a richness and quality to time spent

not afraid of silence nor

know

is

he timid about a good laugh.

something, he will say so and he

to express his vulnerability

Knowing him

when he

for several years has given

in the world.

I

know

that

me

a great respect for his

he continues to evolve and

and congruent communication. Through his

with integrity he has helped

is

feels tired or low.

develop, which always makes him interesting to be around, and real

is

He has when he

he has a receptive audience, he enjoys expressing his inner

with him, he

not

This

to others, professionally or personally.

express a special moment. There

When

likes him.

and engaging manner with people. He

realistic

He

who meets him

many people

ability to

find their truth

I

value his

communicate and heal

that part

of themselves which has been silent and wounded. The balance between his clear

him to

communication and

his willingness to stand

up for himself makes

a valuable person to those he works with and those

be his friends.

who

are fortunate

8

THE BROW CHAKRA Wisdom, knowledge,

intuition, discernment,

and imagination

I DYSFUNCTIONAL ARCHETYPE: The Intellectual

FUNCTIONAL ARCHEITPE: The

Intuitive

HOW THE BROW CHAKRA FUNCTIONS The Brow chakra

is

known

that conscious control is

as the control center of the

body because

and

is

from here

mobilized for our physical, emotional and mental well-being.

the center for thinking, analysis, discernment, intuition

It is

the seat of psychic

it

artistic gifts,

and wisdom.

It is

also

and where the heights of our imagination can

inspire us.

As we focus our awareness

us which connects with the spiritual realms.

which give us a sense of virtue and ness as a guide and protector as

A

balanced

Brow

we open

in this center

ethics.

we

It is

to the

Higher Self

from here we receive

The Higher

that part of

uplifting ideas

Self serves our conscious aware-

deal with the uncertainties of

life.

center combines a clearly focused left brain, which computes

and analyzes, and an open right brain which

is

where our

intuitive, artistic

and psy-

chic gifts reside. Concentrating on this center teaches us discernment and wisdom.

can focus on our inner

same

time.

It

state

of awareness and on the outer world around us

helps us see clearly what

is

important for our well-being

and gives us a sense of perspective as well as

insight.

We

at the

and happiness,

ANP

CIIAKKAS

128

When

sDinclhing

caught up

in

is

lilYPl-.S

When we worry

tells us.

Brow

are stressing the

and development when we open

when we manipulate our environment

it

chakra.

which represents

energy from

reflect the

We

mis-

or others in an attempt

Brow

chakra.

this center are the Intellectual

Brow

the over-burdened intellectual ization of the

which epitomizes the open

or get

can be

It

this center.

Meditation can be both calming and centering for the

life.

The two archetypes which

Intuitive

we

endless mental complexities

use the energy from

I

our inner knowing

right tor us

a beacon of light for our healing

to control

rilLIK AKCI

right brain available to

center and the

enhance our sense of

pleasure, as well as the world of beauty, color and the mysterious realm of the spirit.

Dysfunctional Archetype: The Intellectual

Recognizing The Intellectual

When

the

about

life.

to be,

which

If

Brow chakra

we

is

dysfunctional

it is

This means that the intellectual

gifts are not

feel stupid

and unable

to think for ourselves

brain without developing our mental gifts fully.

from

we

fully

will

be

living too

developing our minds as well. reliant

much

for our future.

dynamically

If

we

in the right brain

we

will only

the problems in our

we may

fall

life.

into the right

Doubt and confusion can stop us

are living too

on plans, maps and future outcomes

The

in

being used as they were meant

means of understanding and solving

as a

is

generally from an over-intellectualization

much

to control

be living

in the

in

our

now

our

left

lives. If

brain

we

are

without concern

Intellectual archetype theorizes about everything rather than being

tune with the cycles of energy around

it.

Thus

it

represents a real

imbalance and misuse of our thinking capabilities. This archetype

tries to

master the forces of chaos by living from the dictates and

constrictions of the left brain only and larly those

The

it

seldom engages with

its its

feelings, particu-

surrounding fear and insecurity.

Intellectual suppresses

its

feelings,

which may be highly

than be faced with experiencing overwhelming emotions that trol in

its

response to situations.

happiness and

Its

mind

is

dry and has a

restricts its capacity for joy.

While

make

irrational, rather it

feel out

static quality to it

it

of con-

which lim-

attempts to control

its

world

THE BROW CHAKRA

it

avoids having to listen to

inner voice which

may be

saying that

to

does not

It

guide

it

trust its

through

life's

own

time to

direct expe-

challenges or uncertainties.

worrying or thinking too much.

new

its

infor-

intuition to provide a valuable source of information

The Intellectual has an over-stimulated mind and

responses to

is

and has many ideas based on

Intellectual is also highly opinionated

mation from secondary sources, rather than trusting what comes from rience.

it

day or smell the roses.

relax, enjoy the

The

its

129

often full of tension from

constantly relies on habitual or mechanical

It

which

situations

is

limit its possibilities for expansion.

feels safe

It

responding in the old, familiar patterns which eliminate having to confront doubts, fears or confusion. it

Chaos

is

a part of reality and developing a

into our lives is part of growth.

and, at the

same

When we

incorporating

are able to adapt to the changes of life

time, be grounded in ourselves,

and profoundly mysterious event rather than as a philosophy based

way of

we can rigid,

experience

life

mechanical and

as a flowing

fixed.

Having

on the value of personal experience and inner knowing gives us

healthy and grounded

ways of responding

to life

while embracing our wholeness and

respecting our individuality.

The seldom

Intellectual rationalizes, intellectualizes

trusting

feelings or seeking guidance

its

stuck in the realm of ideas and concepts

more

it

programs control into

always striving

its life,

to achieve, gain

its

and theorizes

its

from within. As

way through

this

life,

archetype stays

energy stagnates and atrophies, and the

the less margin

and conquer. This

is

it

has for peace and ease.

exhausting and leaves

it

It is

tired,

anxious and preoccupied.

When we

only live from the dictates of our

ing and computing,

we miss

universe of imagination, intuition and lectual capacities.

left brain,

the other half of life that

is

wisdom waiting

the realm of rational think-

so rich in joy. There to

is

be balanced with our

to

itself

it

life.

change the Intellectual mentality

If the Intellectual

within

avoids this source of available energy and aliveness which exists

will eventually dry

up and reduce

its

life to

predictable outcomes.

Balance means tempering theory with living and finding a blend of thoughts and ings.

The

intel-

True balance requires an acceptance of the unknown and the realm

of the spontaneous to match the fixed ideas and patterns of the Intellectual's

Beginning

a whole

Intellectual gets

caught up

in the

world of ideas, afraid

feel-

to experience itself

I

CHAKRAS

130

in

ANl^) IHIilK

new and dynamic ways. Given

decline to shift

attitudes

its

and

ARCH

li

lYIMi.S

the opportunity for growth and exploration

will

remain stuck

in the rarefied

will

it

world of words, con-

cepts and plans. It

can destroy

remaining

in this

its

health and undermine

archetype.

The

grounding

Intellectual needs

sonal relationships and the pleasure of

element and

emotional connections to people by

its

its

body.

It

warmth of

in the

per-

needs to reconnect with the earth

feel itself in life.

MOVING ON FROM THE INTELLECTUAL Taking Responsibility For Yourself

We

all

have the capacity to use our minds to heal our

ourselves.

Our

lives are fuller

lives

and create happiness for

and richer when we can bring our intelligence

play with our feelings. This helps us develop a fuller capacity to discern what for us

and

to

be happy about ourselves. Our intelligence

our intuition and imagination to help us to create the future the

way we would

of our faculties to

Being able

of the intellect

is

that

know what and who

is

for our highest it

is

experience and

our minds to the

we need

good and

to

many

use

all

greatest joy.

the natural balance to allowing our

blossom and not overreact when we have a problem. Proper use

finding a balanced and holistic

we have been

we open

order to think for ourselves,

to think clearly is important;

feelings the space to

a tool

In

life's

to be.

it

Taking responsibility for ourselves means

ways we can access information.

when we use

enriched

wisdom from our

distill

like

is

into

good

is

given.

We

need

to

the intellect in the service of the spirit

way of managing

know when and how

we

find a

in life. It is

to u.se

it.

only

When we

way of developing wisdom,

cernment and other noble qualities which carry us through

life's crises

and sustain

put disus.

Exercise This exercise ferent

is

to help

ways of looking

different functions of

you use both hemispheres of your at

a person or situation so that

brain.

It

employs two

you can see how you use

your brain to solve a problem or gain

insight.

dif-

the

THE BROW CHAKRA

1

Take a

your

situation or a person in

131

and access your thoughts and feelings

life

about them.

2 What are your thoughts about thing like: "I think that John

my

take in

3

Now

point of view,

this situation or is

person? Your thoughts

immature and

we might

difficult. If

may be some-

he would be willing to

get along better."

ask yourself what your feelings are. If you do not get a clear sense of your

feelings

you might

using colored pens to represent your feelings and shapes to

try

help you describe the situation or person. Your right brain responds easily to

metaphors, symbols and colors.

4

If

your thoughts and your intuition give you different information about

this

person

or situation, which are you going to trust? Are you going to listen to your mind? are

you going

your feehngs and intuition? You

to trust

which function gives you the most

reliable picture,

This exercise helps you understand your

own

your

ability to discern the nature

at times, but if

takes.

you want

to

The more you can

The Myth Of The The saddest myths

your thoughts or your feelings?

It is

more your

Use

this tech-

a balanced and reliable

of a person or situation.

develop your intuition you

relax the

Or

to ask yourself

intellectual processes.

nique whenever you want to evaluate an experience. to trust

may wish

may have

way

You may be wrong to

make some mis-

intuition will flow freely.

Archetype

Intellectual

are about people

who

believe they need to be perfect and

who

never achieve their dreams. They live from an idea which doesn't encompass either

As

mistakes, inconsistencies or imperfections. trust life to

So

provide the good things they need.

often people

who

the right hemisphere,

primarily inhabit the

do so because

dren. Ignoring a child's needs

the inner realms of

How

a consequence they suffer and do not

its

strongly do

their feelings

and feelings

is

mind, never trusting

you

live in

left

hemisphere of the brain, and ignore

were ignored when they were

damaging because

its

it

forces

it

chil-

to live in

feelings or intuition.

your mind? Are you ready to open yourself to your

inner strengths and powers which can help you expand yourself? Trusting yourself

CHAKRAS AND

132

and loving ers feel

When you

1

1;

IK

AKCl

take courage and, at times, this

life,

right or

is

11

even what society says

trust yourself,

you begin

I

i:iYPK.S

may mean going

against what oth-

is right.

to live

by an inner

of rules which are

set

men and

consistent with universal laws. These laws are ancient and have guided

women

beauty as spiritual beings. They are

Be

which

will

life

enhancing and

your

trust

intuition.

the answers within you.

to

You may wish

intuition or the inner

It

is

It

will help

you

find

philosophy of

develop your

life.

own

The

this

of the good. to take

up a

world of the imagina-

new

territory of

your

your inner wisdom. You have

time to access the depths of your experiences which

you have been gathering from lifetimes of learning.

own

totally supportive

attention to your intuition.

open up your

own worth and

life to realize their

This will help you feel grounded and comfortable in

mind. Learn to all

some

willing to give

class or course tion.

pathways of

for generations through the

It

you develop your

will help

best any spiritual teaching can offer

you

is

the capacity

inner knowing.

M E DITATION Sit in in

a comfortable position and begin to relax, taking several

deep breaths

through your nose and releasing them out through your mouth.

As you begin to

relax imagine a beautiful flower Let this represent your inner

nature.

Now

visualize

a

tree which

you

feel

best

represents your strength

and

willpower Finally, visualize

an animal which you

feel

symbolizes your physical energy

Gently bring your consciousness back into the present.

The flower

describes your emotional nature, the tree describes your spiritual

strength and the animal represents your physical vitality Reflect ties

on the

quali-

of these symbols and use your intuition to grasp the inner essence of your

personality which these represent.

You may wish to draw or

these symbols to act as a reminder of your inner beauty.

find pictures

of

THE BROW CHAKRA

133

Vitality

An

instant

way

of getting more vitality in your

negative thoughts you are holding on ing

still.

Negativity has a weight to patient

Practice letting

good

ment you

let

this

while on the

go of the more your

rise

move

your energy

in

and you stimulate your

or stand-

vitality will flow.

life

field.

force to

Be

move

by releasing negative thoughts.

go of heavy or uncomfortable

ask yourself

to

feel to

how

stand

You can do

which you carry around

it

and watch as your energy levels

in a positive direction

often

to.

The more negative thoughts you

use your mind to release any

life is to

if

you

really

be carried around

go of what you don't want

need the weight of

at this

responsive your vitality to carry

situations

is to

moment

in time.

this

from your mind.

It

is

problem or the resent-

When you

begin to under-

positive and negative thoughts

you

will let

any longer.

Other suggestions include the following. Learning to relax

Taking up some form of exercise which could include stretching or simple

movement

to

music

Doing childish things such

as walking in puddles or fingerpainting

Listening to music

Empowerment You empower yourself whenever you acknowledge for yourself in

any

tive unconscious,

our

situation.

We

are all limited

desire

is.

that

we want

joy, love

and

light in

all

the time.

and look within

to

You empower

yourself

understand what your

when

heart's

Try saying the following affirmations looking into a mirror or out loud. You

will gather to 1 forgive

I

to yourself

right thing

and our own limited awareness of the cosmic

purpose hold us back from being positive

you are gentle and kind

you are doing the

by the negativity within the collec-

no matter how much we affirm

lives. History, collective negativity

that

you a greater sense of your own power.

myselffor

my own

always do the best

I

can

limitations.

in

any

situation.

CHAKKAS AND

134

inner voice

/

listen to nix

I

love

/

acknowledge

I

give over

I

integrate the light

and

space

to

my

trust that

my

that

I

am

look inside

I

open

I

am

I

tap into

I

open

and

my

to

let

fiiiide

it

me

to

it

peace and happiness.

should.

perfect in myself.

my

soft

and shadowy letting

and

and gentle feelings.

sides of myself by giving

my

negativity

go.

it

listen to the

intuition

I

unfoldini^ as

life is

twgativity to

he and then

I

and

IHIilK AKCI iriYPES

messages which guide and protect me.

trust that

goodness

is

mine.

wise.

my

my

inner wisdom

and know

that all

is

well in

my

world.

imagination to create the best of all possible worlds for myself.

Case Histories Mai4ia

Maria

is

a

woman

in

her late forties. She

is

extremely intelligent and has

degrees from two major universities and qualifications which are numerous

and impressive. She prides herself on being able

to

converse on a variety

of subjects with some authority and speaks four languages.

She encourages her children

them

if

they do well with affection and presents. She places so

emphasis on

intellectual

others for not being

knows

and eager her

life

is

stupidity.

good enough and

best about

and rewards

much

achievement and has said to her children

only thing she cannot tolerate

she

to strive for success in school

what

is

to win, often at the

right

She

there

is

is

that the

constantly criticizing

a strong sense about her that

and correct. She

is

also very competitive

expense of hurting others. She has planned

very carefully and programs her time so that she manages to have

THE BROW CHAKRA

135

very limited contact with just a few people. Her marriage less,

and her relationship with her children

It

began

dawn on

to

how

isolated she

to put her life

back on

workshops, homeopathy and other

track.

some of

condition, she felt

fear.

to her, but she didn't

She was willing

to try

group

approaches to heal her tendency

holistic

and as she had recently begun

to control life,

of

full

to

develop a painful health

these options were worth trying.

She was so uncomfortable with her physical health problems the

many

time in

first

she had any

years, she

She began

relief.

and love-

had become. Her old pat-

and isolating herself were evident

terns of distancing

know how

her

cold and

is

is stale

wept from the pain.

It

was

that, for

the only time

to take her feelings into account

and an

inner voice emerged from within her which directed her to be softer and

more open feelings,

to others.

and be able

She realized

needed

that she

to reach out to her friends

She used her intelligence

to understand

to

have access

and family.

what price her haughty

tudes had cost her in regard to her feelings and her happiness.

ness to

become a

developed

free

in herself

to her

Her

atti-

willing-

and more open person was genuine, and as she

and was more

in

touch with her

own

emotional

reality,

her health problems began to ease up. She used her intellect to understand the theory of suppression, for instance, and

knew

that she

had locked away

her feelings and had been living in her mind for a very long time.

easy for her to look

As

at

It

wasn't

her pain and to experience her feelings.

she eventually gave over the

found herself having more

vitality

strict

control of her emotions she

and more intimate contact with

others.

This was the payoff for her and her levels of well-being continued to increase as she

anced way of she

felt

life

is less critical

ing out to her in

well

more

frequently.

She

and enjoying herself for the and

is

more supportive of

is

developing a more bal-

first

time in

many

years.

As

others, she finds people reach-

more genuinely caring ways. This has touched her deeply

and has given her a chance

to live a

more balanced

life.

CHAKRAS AND

136

IK AKCHIilYIMiS

III;

I

Anio tty Antony

is

a well-educated, upper middle-class

man

who

in his early fifties

achieved distinction at the university and eventually took over his father's business. sent

away

He was given

boarding school

to

members of

processed, as

He had caring that

warmth or

little

the

for

had been missing

become shaky when

in his early life.

knew how

of

how

to

this

to live

and marry a warm-hearted and

some tenderness and

demand on him because,

from

his intellect

of his

crisis

to help him.

life

felt

affection

in his experi-

little

awareness

very dry and

rigid.

and sent him into a deep

for therapy

His wife agreed to stay with him

open up and become the loving man she

and had

He was

He went

depression which lasted for months.

and sustenance

His marriage eventually started to

respond openly from his feelings.

This was the most painful

for generations.

years, provided the nurturing

his wife pleaded for

from him. He was stunned by ence, he only

and family had been

to fall in love

many

was

an early age to be regimented and

his class

good fortune

woman who,

at

affection in his childhood and

in the

and homeopathy

hope

that

he could

he was capable of becoming.

Fortunately he was intelligent enough to realize that only he was responsible for his capacity to love.

He wept

for the lost love he missed as a child

and he developed a compassionate nature which grew into a rich awareness as he matured. his feelings.

He found

the balance

between

spiritual

his intellect

and

His marriage endured and became a source of intimacy for

both him and his wife.

Functional Archetype: The Intuitive

Recognizing The Intuitive As we transcend

the Intellectual archetype

knowing which we wise.

We

call

our intuition.

we move towards

accessing our deepest

When we live from the depths

of self

we become

can make choices for ourselves and help others to find their inner wisdom.

Native Americans

call this the

time of the grandparents. Traditionally

it

was

the elders

THE BROW CHAKRA

of a tribe or community

who pooled

care. In

our time

wisdom

for building sane

wisdom

their

and healthy

plexities.

its

knowing

inner

gift

to provide

offers protection for itself

It

under

their

own

inner

are left to find our

lives.

This highly developed archetype has the ance, and trusts in

to guide the families

we

has been lost and

this tradition

137

of inner sight,

known

as clairvoy-

guidance and answers to

life's per-

and others through following the guidance

its

inner vision provides.

To

from

live

love for

that place of

know

life to

that

deep

trust requires

will see

it

an impeccable sense of

you through painful and

It

has a basic belief in the benign nature of the universe and

holds within ing light of

and

life

it

its life.

The

its

awareness.

We

are

all

and

and

spiritual

ultimately for the highest good, even

knows

it

this

that

the guid-

enhance

its

working for

no one ever

knowledge guides the

awareness.

if it is,

is

to

to positive forces

whole and

part of a greater

Intuitive in serving higher consciousness is

open

The

knows everything

it

and wisdom

and well-being of the greater whole because

succeeds alone.

experience

It is

and

faith.

love. This philosophy

Intuitive uses the gift of insight

to serve others with

the happiness

and

the full potential for goodness

difficult times.

and

Intuitive archetype has both these qualities as well as patience

trust

It

trusts that all

during the interim, painful

difficult.

The

Intuitive

knows about

the necessity of experiencing change and sometimes

the terrible emotional stress that accompanies

it

in order for

people to grow.

It

accepts

that this is part of the process of change.

Today many people increases

we

are developing their intuitive skills.

are better able to cope with events in our lives

nature of the changes

we

we need and The

how

we gain who know that

It

who

knows

a stronger trust in the Source. True there

is

always enough of everything

web of

are not in touch with that core can be lost in the

that things are not

always what they appear

human

nature.

a part of the natural process of development and at the to

understand the

deep understanding of the inner core of

accepts both the fragility and strength of

one

to

concept maintained through doubt and negative thinking.

Intuitive archetype has a

people,

sions. it

people

that lack is a

and

sensitivity

undergo. If our gifts are used in the service of others as

well as for our personal happiness intuitives are gracious

As our

be positive and develop their

full potential.

portive contributor to everyone's well-being.

It

to

and

their illu-

be on the surface and

knows

same time

The

life

Intuitive

that limitation is

it

encourages every-

is

a loving and sup-

i

CHAKRAS AND

138

The

psychic development,

its

knows,

for instance,

vision and

it

what

connects

dom. The

li

lYI'liS

therapist, healer, artist or actor,

this

its

it

becomes

skilled at interpreting these symbols.

the heart of things. This

is at

is

h

spirit.

Our growth processes

the direct link to our spirit.

is

It

called second sight or inner

archetype to the world of the invisible, the realm of

The subconscious mind directly linked with

I

of the brain which understands metaphor and symbols and, as

that part

part of

ARCI

lllilK

makes a wonderful

Intuitive archetype

works from

1

are

metaphoric content to give us both inner guidance and wis-

Intuitive listens to

messages and knows

its

these metaphors must be honored and listened

to. It

the subconscious as valid information useful for

its

that the voice

which projects

accepts the inner workings of

healing.

This archetype accepts everyone on the planet has lessons to learn. The Intuitive uses

its

imagination and intuitive

ing times.

It

skill to

guide others through

through the symbolic content of these dreams. the subconscious its

difficult or challeng-

pays attention to the messages of dreams and sees inner processes unfold

mind

releases to be

It

decoded so

pays attention to the images which

we

that

can understand and follow

guidance.

Nature gives the Intuitive guidance to traverse the world

its

symbols

we

to the inner process of the

call reality.

The

mirror of the unconscious mind and the Intuitive

mind and

offers

natural world represents the perfect

knows

this

and

lives life accordingly,

never blaming and always accepting that everything serves conscious unfoldment.

work

is

come

through.

The the

to interpret these

into

messages and pay attention

Intuitive never discounts synchronicity or coincidence

power of

Intuitive

symbols

the

mind

to the signals that

and

fully understands

to create the experience the spirit needs for

knows thoughts

are powerful and creative and

it

its

growth. The

draws experiences

to

it

magnets. The Intuitive understands the inner creative process and works with

enhance the quality of

life

for

all

around

able to us to enhance our development.

come with acceptance and truth, a state

The thriving The

human

It is

It

knows everything we need

aware too

that inner

like it

to

avail-

is

peace and serenity

are not to be obtained in the external world. This

is,

in

of mind.

Intuitive

Intuitive archetype has

of the

it.

Its

spirit to

always thrived

express

its

in cultures

which have honored the need

inner connection with universal forces.

It is

recog-

THE BROW CHAKRA

nized today by spiritual cultures

who

revere

life

as sacred

For instance, the Oracle of the Tibetan Buddhist sacred vessel which channels Divine religions

and Eastern cultures the Intuitive

acknowledged to

Wisdom.

that they see

139

is

who honor

the Source.

Lama

used by the Dalai

In Native

is

and

American

as a

Polynesian

tribes,

deeply respected and honored.

It

is

through the veil of our limited minds and have the ability

connect us with the power and mystery of the eternal.

We

are beginning in the

expand our

lives

to this part of their

which can be developed and

delights and

to look again for this lost function to enrich

to help us understand our place in the universe.

open themselves

the ability to skill

and

West

wonder of

it

mind

if

the powerful mystery

we

Everyone has

they wish to do so.

who chooses

offers the individual

and

its

It is

a

path the

call life.

DEVELOPING THE INTUITIVE Taking Responsibility For Yourself

We are all capable of opening our intuition to higher degrees ing.

When we

begin to

trust ourselves

our lives are transformed into a magical quest

and mystery of

for deeper connections into the beauty

place requires that dation of this

is

we develop

of perception and know-

is

we

based on loving and accepting ourselves as

spirit.

When we its

are and

It is

from

that

The foun-

knowing we

also accepting that

a benign and loving place.

The more we love and honor ourselves our

live fully

a special relationship with our inner nature.

are worthy of kindness, gentleness and serenity in our lives.

the universe

To

spirit.

When we do

things that

make

complete projects and tasks

we

we honor

more deeply

us happy

and taking responsibility for ourselves.

the quality of our experience

the

we

in

touch

we become

with

are helping our spirit to open.

are strengthening the integrity of our spir-

When we

listen to ourselves

and

trust in

ourselves.

Exercise

You can begin 1

to

develop and strengthen your intuition by doing the exercise below.

Begin by making a situations in

your

list

life,

of ten things you would like to

know

about.

They can be

people or circumstances you have not understood before.

AND

CHAKRA.S

140

Be very

in

First ask yourself

and which

will tell

For instance, you may want

You may wish

to teach

good

what

Ask your subconscious mind

can interpret

life.

li'lTPKS

to

important to you about each of these

to give

you pictures or symbols which you

you what you need

know

know what

to

is

the

to

You may need

come

before awareness can

these things.

purpose was for you and what

its

in a difficult or painful situation. it

know about

meaning of a past relationship

you about yourself. You may be hard pressed

ings about

spend a few

to

meditation to clear your conscious mind and to be a clean channel for

your perceptions. things.

I

and relaxed as you go inside yourself. You may wish

still

moments

ARCl

llllilK

was meant

it

to see the learning or the

your negative

to release

down

in a

journal or notebook.

From time

receive feels right.

Look

know

inside yourself to

to time this is a

good technique

ing your understanding of events and people in your

feel-

and relax as you wait for

to you. Breathe

whatever messages or pictures come into your mind's eye. You can write mation

your

in

this infor-

what you

if

expand-

to use for

life.

2 You can go inside yourself to check out whether something feels right or not for

Be

you.

still

and tune

in to yourself. If

memory

yourself what

or emotion

you are holding any tension

lodged

is

in

your body.

tensions related to old attitudes you are holding on

to.

It

feel

may be

When you

and ask

it

a deposit of

get an

answer

take a breath and release your tension. If the tension stays lodged in your

body

you may need

What

does

it

sion?

to ask yourself

relate to

and what

The answer

is

is it

what

blocked.

is

you need

Is

anger?

it

to realize before

when you

feel

what you need

it

you are

always within you so ask yourself what

Life can be so simple

Is

to feel

sadness?

free of this ten-

this issue is about.

and affirm yourself

with love and gentleness.

The Myth Of The

We

all

where

Intuitive

Archetype

have intuition and are capable of knowing everything in the

universe

at

any moment.

We

are only limited

that

is

happening any-

by our belief

that life

be regulated and controlled by certain habits, conditions, boundaries and the belief that

we

are innocent bystanders letting things

happen

must

rules,

to us at

and

random.

Trusting our intuition opens the doors to our knowing.

Most of us lies,

live

contained within the limits of our mind and by what our fami-

churches and educational institutes

tell

us

is true.

Occasionally

we

release the

THE BROW CHAKRA

rules for a brief

moment and we

get a glimpse of

our consciousness and grasp the

Sometimes

141

what

my

beyond

ties that exist

When we expand

possible

when we expand

and splendor of the universe.

magnificence

takes a willingness to say to yourself: "I

it

is

am open

to all the possibili-

limited knowledge."

our minds to include the wonders and magic of the universe a

special awareness begins to unfold for us.

Be

willing to release your limitations and

expand your awareness about what may be possible

walk the path of your destiny and be you. Everything you do

meant

is

to

in

your

life.

This

way you can

God has given you come to know

in touch with the full potential

enhance your

and understand the magnificence of who you

spirit

and help

are.

MEDITATION some deep

comfortably and take

Sit

state allow yourself to imagine

may wish

your

to see yourself walking

in

breaths. life

As you

you would

as

a beautiful place

a group of people or a person you deeply love.

or a group of people you fortable with yourself like

at

If

feel strongly

Imagine that you

whom

you don't know anyone

feel

it

is

truly like

in

to be. You

it

nature surrounded by

may be

It

into a meditative

a friend or a loven

connected with. Feel relaxed and com-

to be with then imagine that there

one with and

drift

is

whom

you

feel

you would

someone you can

feel

completely

a pleasure to be with.

happy healthy and

fit.

You

feel

loved and supported by

everyone around you. You know you have everything you need to be

There

is

enough

love,

support and

money

to do the things you enjoy You have

the time and energy to complete everything you want ful

for

all

the good

in

with your imagination

your

now

life. If

in

there

is

fulfilled.

in

life.

You are thank-

anything you need you can create

your meditation. Let yourself

feel

deeply

it

satisfied

and happy

The more

positive

your attitude to

manifest around you. This

those around you to

heal.

will

life

is

the

more happiness and

help you heal and at the

joy you

same time

will

will

allow

CHAKRAS ANP IHtIR ARCH

142

li

TYPES

Vitality

Using your mind

to create

what you want can be

ment. Making sure that you have access to

you want from

life is essential.

need

your

to look at

What

life in

you doing

are

all

part

and parcel of your develop-

the energy

To give yourself

you need

the vitality

to enjoy

what

you require you may

a different way.

most of your energy?

that takes

Are you working too hard?

Do you

spend

all

your time looking

after others?

Are you studying for a course?

Do you

Why

Whatever

tight

you not doing what you love and enjoy the most?

are

is

it

with your partner or boss?

that saps

your

vitality

needs to be re-evaluated

in the light

of your

personal happiness so that you can have the energy you need to enjoy your

you are giving your

enough self if

left

life

over for you

force to your work, relationship or projects and there isn't it is

time to redress the balance. You

you are doing too much for others rather than for

are allowed to enjoy

problem here

Make

a

it is

list

some energy

time to look

at

for

may need

yourself.

Ask

your well-being and happiness.

how you

to ask your-

yourself If

for your social life

Taking more exercise spiritually uplifting

Taking time each day

to

books

communicate with your Creator

Being thankful for the good

in

your

you

you have a

of the things that are important to your well-being. Also look

Visiting your family and friends

Reading

if

use your energy.

following suggestions and see what you could be doing to enhance your

Making more time

life. If

life

life.

at the

THE BROW CHAKRA

143

Empowerment In order to

empower yourself use your intuitive

edgement and peace you need the best for yourself helps

you

feel

good about

give yourself both the acknowl-

gifts to

good about

to feel

yourself.

yourself.

Knowing

that

you are doing

Say these affirmations

of a mirror or out loud so that you can integrate them into your vision of

and am

/ live, love

What I

am

I

open

I receive

My

to

my

life.

creative.

do for myself is

to love

and honor who

highest awareness

and

guidance and protection at

am

I

right now.

listen.

all times.

awareness increases as I tune into

my

inner knowing.

The goodness and abundance of the universe

is

available to

me

at all

times.

Life

I

am

always offers

me an

opportunity for growth

and development.

learning with every experience I have that I

am

a valuable and

lovable being.

I

am

Life

learning to discern what

is

is

for

my

highest

good and

greatest joy.

a beautiful experience full of love and joy.

I

am happy

to

be

I

have nothing

to

happiness.

still

and

prove

listen carefully to

in life. I

am free

to

my

in front

inner voice.

do what gives me joy and

CHAKRAS ^NO

144

llllilR

AKCH H TYI't.S

Case Histories •Aiexatuheh Alexandra itive

a

is

young and talented American woman who

deeply intu-

is

and highly clairvoyant. Unlike many psychics, she has explored and

used her

generate a happy, healthy and fulfilled

gifts to

for herself.

life

Clear about her power and true to her integrity, she assists thousands of

people every year to realize their

Alexandra has an

Institute for

teaches people to develop their friend invited the told

room

me

things which

my name

would change

Psychic Development

own

and work. Four years

I

later,

that

I

Several years after

I

wanted

many She

to

know

my

my

that if

my

first

my name

I

and moved to studies.

meeting with Alexandra, to

me

to a cold climate to live

homeopathic

was going

told

I

went

to see her

have a bone marrow transplant.

she would live through the ordeal. Alexandra told

me

things in that reading, but wouldn't answer that particular question.

just said,

"Be

sure to

out to be the last words

A

met her when a

She

at the time.

would move

I

had changed

sister

first

I

Alexandra went around

class.

could not believe

and

California and

in

some information about themselves. She

England, to Manchester, to pursue

on discovering

intuitive talents.

an introductory evening

to

offering each person

me two

full potential.

few years

later

I

tell

spoke to

while

ing and wonderful things

your

I

was

sister that

my

you love

her,"

These turned

sister.

visiting California, she told

which subsequently unfolded

me

interest-

just as she said

they would.

What which she

is

so exceptional about Alexandra

offers her intuition.

is

the beauty and grace with

Every day there are long

her center waiting to see her. She helps them

all.

She

lines of people at

is

neither bombastic,

nor seeking to make herself look important. She runs her Institute along

sound educational and business guidelines. She

is

a wise

woman who has now teaches

learned to honor her gifts by developing herself fully and others for

how

to

do the same. She has been a source of guidance and help

me and many

others.

THE BROW CHAKRA

Stephen Levine

is

a writer and a poet

years and thoroughly enjoyed. the sick

He

145

whose works

I

have read for many

come

has, in recent years,

to

work with

and dying; offering comfort, solace and release from emotional

suffering.

He

helped so

many

has brought a spiritual dimension to people's lives which has

work

dying. His

find their hearts is

their souls before

highly intuitive, and his love and trust in the Source

confirmed every day faith in the

and reconnect with

in the reality

workings of Divine Grace would be as open and trusting

face of death as he

is.

He

helped

is

of his work. Only someone with great

me open my

in the

heart to the goodness and

the love in the universe through his books, articles and lectures. His spirit is

joyful and his

grounded.

He

wisdom

deep. His

come

inspired best

me

to trust

example

intuitive and, at the

something most people

terms with. Although

to

is

same

time,

follows his heart, which has given him the strength and for-

titude he needs in dealing with

not

work

I

I

do not know him,

and love the Source

know

of a male Intuitive.

in myself.

in

his

For

our culture can-

work has

that reason

directly

he

is

the

THE CROWN CHAKRA Beauty, spirituality, connection with the Divine Source

DYSFUNCIIONAL ARCHinYPK: The Egotist

FUNCTIONAL ARCHE'lTPE: The Guru

HOW THE CROWN CHAKRA FUNCTIONS The Crown chakra embodies

we can

the

summit of beauty, refinement and

experience in our Hves. The function of the

which

the Hght of spirit

is

eternally connected to the Source.

within ourselves to this point of connection where

Crown chakra channels Self,

Crown chakra

we

are

spirituaHty that is

to

open us

to

Each of us can look

one with the Source. The

the energy of that part of ourselves, often called the Higher

and embraces us within

its

healing and protective light. In this place there

is

always joy and an abiding sense of peace.

When we filled

are

open

to receiving the love

with the energy of the Divine, guiding and inspiring us in

level of

awareness

we walk

the path of destiny, touching life

The two archetypes which represent the

and wisdom from our Higher Self we are

Crown chakra

sonality

which

is

is

and knows

that all things

do.

At

this

and dysfunctional aspects of

the functional

The Guru, on

we

from the center outward.

and the Guru. The Egotist

boastful and ungrateful.

the Divine Source

within. There

are the Egotist

all

is

the narcissistic per-

the other hand,

come from

acknowledges

the grace of the Higher Self

a vast qualitative difference in energy and awareness between the

arrogance of the one and the wisdom of the other.

THE CROWN CHAKRA

147

Dysfunctional Archetype: The Egotist

Recognizing The Egotist

When

Crown chakra

the

closed

is

we

experience an archetype which, because of the

high degree of conscious development and success tant to developing

of

full

its

own

awareness.

spiritual

its

The

self importance.

which can be defined

It

Egotist

in psychological

it

has in the world,

it

responsible for

is

stuck at a level of self gratification,

is

terms as narcissism

site to the

The

its

and protecting presence

control. Its arrogance prevents

from others when

for help

The

it

itself.

ego flourishes

ity to directly

Nor does

it

want

as the sole cause of

its life

experience.

its

well-developed intuition.

of

its

But

it

it

feels

of

itself,

itation to spiritual

is

its

Egotist

is

it

is ill

will

nor

is it

convinced that everyfor asking

The

itself.

bedrock upon which

Egotist believes that nothing has the abil-

own

course of action. Often

rejects other

all

focus and

mind. The Egotist sees

itself

people for their imperfections and

Egotist can be a highly conscious person with a

capable of being very creative, reliable and highly pro-

has no need to acknowledge a higher force within as

its

It

it

thinks

doesn't open to the spir-

greatest strength. This represents

its

lim-

growth and awareness. very entrenched in the material world and has a vision of

mechanical in the extreme.

when

It

but relies on the ego as

or in pain, and

can be punishing to its

it

It is

It is

from being humble or

personality, or false self, as the highest force possible.

itual part

The

its life.

power or presence of anyone or anything

The

except

often very lonely and isolated.

ductive.

completely oppo-

responsible for

to understand that spirit is the

in a healthy person.

influence

in its life.

activity is centered in the left brain, the conscious, rational

is

is

is

needs support or cannot find true peace with

Egotist does not acknowledge the

higher than the

specifically, a

rooted in the belief that

This

life.

more

Egotist stubbornly refuses any interest in spirituality or even acknowledging

within

is

or,

is

Victim archetype, which feels that everyone else

the presence of a guiding

thing

personal achievements in

its

often resis-

can be described as proud, arrogant and

grandiose false self separate from the true core. The Egotist

only

is

itself

on everything

it

it

It

life

which

believes in harsh approaches to dealing with the

body

easily disregards the emotions as a sign of weakness.

and others as a means of expressing

can control.

It

doesn't put

aware of the goodness and sweetness of

its

its

faith in

life. It

disapproval.

It

It

imposes

God, or the Higher

Self,

lives a very separate existence

CHAKRAS AND IHEIR ARCHH

148

lYIMiS

without any sense of the Oneness of the Universe. There

everything

The ity. It

is

Egotist can enjoy refuting evidence that spirit

can reach old age and

humankind Its

its life.

all

as supreme.

resist

still

is spirit

the

power

any other view of

Crown chakra

Its

perceptions will limit

It

it

alone which imbues the it

needs and

that

its

of awareness by believing exist with the help

that

in its

it

is

the guiding light in

life

back from

The

life force.

until the last

own

its

moment of

evolution.

Egotist thinks and feels

energy alone can solve It

human-

than that one which defines

remain closed

will

and hold

force and willpower to resolve issues.

we

no depth to the Egotist,

is

on the surface and externalized out into the world.

problems.

its

It

it

has

uses sheer

separates itself off from the higher spheres

own omnipotence.

and co-operation of higher

It

understand

fails to

spiritual

that, at core,

guidance and can

realm of energy and awareness for help and assistance

at

call

upon

any time.

MOVING ON FROM THE EGOTIST Taking Responsibility For Yourself Living from our deepest knowing and realizing of God, Source.

is

to

radiance in the world. are attached to

When we we

spirit,

our Divine nature

One way

do

is

are.

We

are

all

is

an aspect

aspects of the

this is to let

go of the ego

identifications

and

you

false sense of yourself.

We may

more important than our

who we are is a body in male or father, healer or patient. We may choose to identify with economic wealth when, in fact, we are not any of these

diminish ourselves.

Whatever we chose spirit

each of us

to permit our spirit to shine with joy

identify with anything outside of self as being

our professional status or

which the

to

and which give you a

female form, a mother or

things.

who we

ultimately taking responsibility for

To open up

that, at core,

think that

to identify with is only

an aspect of the persona or mask

chooses to embody within.

Exercise 1

Be

willing to take a serious look at your ego identifications.

you identify with? Are you education or profession?

Do you

identified with

Do you

Whom

and what do

your sex, nationality, economic

status,

experience yourself as something more than this?

see yourself as different or special?

THE CROWN CHAKRA

2

If

you are not any of these ego

149

identifications, ask yourself

who you

are.

Give

yourself the time you need to contemplate this question.

3 As you

start to identify

pletely to the

whole of

a

new

life

sense of yourself which connects you more com-

be clear that you are transforming your energy to the

highest level of consciousness.

If

you need

ground yourself

to

your old familiar identifications do so by talking

in

with someone you are familiar with or by walking in familiar surroundings. This helps you to remain grounded.

Becoming enlightened can be to realize that

you are none of the things you had previously

a stronger and more beautiful

The Myth Of The

We

disorienting and frightening

believe that

we

spirit

if

you are not prepared

identified with but rather

than anything you could have previously imagined.

Egotist Archetype

are limited

by our bodies, our intelligence or our feelings and

We

that these limitations define us.

identify ourselves

amount of money and opportunities available

by our age,

We

to us.

color, sex

learn to separate ourselves

from others because of external hierarchies of evaluation and judgement. over our authority and power to people

ence than

we

do.

A

limited view of

life

we

feel

the

power of our

others and diminishes the richness and beauty of our true

We

will

always give away our power whenever

Our development

relies

on learning

the process of creation. This

is

that

we

are

we

fail to

one with

gral part of

gain

it.

of

life all is

life

love or honor the

We

are not separate

that

our reality

Putting this into practice in everyday

which says

when we

that

when we

love others

we

self.

and an essential part of

is

essential if

we

cosmic consciousness.

one.

Once we know and experience

empowerment and with

true selves to

called Enlightenment, being one with the Source.

are to align our awareness with this level

give

self.

Letting go of our ego identifications, both positive or negative,

At

We

have more knowledge and experi-

away

gives

and the

are kind to

life is, in

else

this

oneness, but an inte-

our lives are never the same.

shifts to

someone

love ourselves.

this

from

We

one of grace and beauty.

essence, living the golden rule,

we

are also kind to ourselves and

CHAKRA.S ANl^ THIilR ARCH li'l'YI'l-S

ISO

Are you willing

up the myth of separation? Are you willing

to give

to

being part and pareel of one fantastically dynamic and alive process called

you can make self

and

live

this choice.

your

life.

worse than others, and

You need

Your ideas may be based on the notion

sciousness of treat others

to all

We

are

within us.

life

to all life.

made of

all

When we

more lovingly and

Only

life?

that

It

we are all and we offer

all

a part of

contain the conlife,

we

begin to

our support and blessings

humanity.

MEDITATION Sit

comfortably with your spine straight and begin to

and life

out.

As you begin to take your

and focus

rience of your

Koan

as

it

is

known

in

Zen,

deep awareness of who you

You may pass through

several

ego

relax,

breathing slowly

away from the outer

attention

inside yourself hold the question

This question, or

is

"Who am

I?" in

reality

of

the key that unlocks the expe-

are.

identifications before

You may go through the stages of

in

your mind.

you

realize

your Divine

nature. Give yourself the opportunity to experience yourself as deeply as can.

feeling

you

you are nothing or that you are

Remember this is only an ego identification which asks to be released when you come into contact with the self; that part of you which is light, pure, worthless.

beautiful

and

joyful.

Try to keep a mindful awareness of

you

find

yourself slipping

Whenever you

who

bet-

permeates the animal, plant and

see that

respectfully,

better or

make you

or education

same substance, we

the

you are

which maintain your ego.

illusions

True cosmic consciousness extends mineral kingdoms.

money

such things as race,

that

to

be willing to release your ideas about your-

to

worse than others. These are the

ter or

open

you are throughout your

day.

When

away from yourself take a moment to reconnect.

are or whatever you are doing can take you

deep

inside yourself

THE CROWN CHAKRA

151

Vitality

The degree of

vitality

identifications

and

we can make

start to

reconnect with the core of our

who

powerful. There are stories of people

up from the Root chakra and

sciousness

and released

identifications the

in

spirituality.

more energy

is

for your

To

is

called the Kundalini.

The more you can

available to

create miraculous healing and enables gurus feats. It

overwhelmed by

the primal life energy brought

is

move through

and

can give you the strength to make the

this

your

up

When known

into con-

your ego

you. This energy can

spiritual teachers to

shifts in

it is

release

life

do remarkable

which are necessary

growth and healing.

increase your vitality, look in a mirror for several minutes and

Ask

ego

can be dynamic and

your Crown center the impact of

hits

as Shakti, or Divine Awareness. This

release our

it.

The energy which moves up through your chakras rises

spirit

are so completely

energy, their lives are totally transformed by

it

when we

available to ourselves

yourself what your

own

true nature

is.

What

are

you

do

the following:

really like?

Find something beautiful about yourself Find something graceful about yourself Find something timid and innocent about yourself Find something humorous about yourself

Can you

see joy within your reflection?

Can you

release any

Can you thank your

judgement

in

your face and

spirit for creating

you

let it

just as

soften?

you are?

Empowerment When we

are clear that

we

are not our

We live in the energy. We become

ego identificafions we begin

our Higher Self.

realm of magic and mystery as

of cosmic

more open

The depths of our love and

in

the capacity for

we

to live life

from

connect to the flow in

our

spirits.

our joy become expansive.

We

radiate

our hearts and bountiful

CMAKRA.S

152

strength, courage,

ANi:>

freedom and joy

lli;iK

I

ARCI

1;

lYPHS

everyone around us and

to

We

are

to grasp the significance

of

and wonderful experiences into our

1

lives.

attract love,

whole and complete

in

happiness

our love and

acceptance of ourselves.

Allow yourself

down of

the following affirmations.

who you

/

am

am

will help

awareness as you say or write

you connect with your deepest sense

are.

truth,

freedom, love and beauty.

the realm of cosmic consciousness.

I live in

I

They

this

one with

at

I live in the

all

life.

awareness that we are one people, one planet.

I

open myself to experience the depths of my being.

I

am

one with the forces of life.

I

am

at

I

tune

I

connect with the highest, clearest vibrations of love in the universe.

My

peace knowing that

my

path

will to that

is

made

of

gentle

I

am

protected and guided at all times.

infinite intelligence.

and easy as

I lift

my

spirit to the highest levels

of

awareness.

I

release

There

is

are one.

my

limited view of myself

and attune

to the

no separation between my love and the love

oneness of all

life.

in the universe;

we

THE CROWN CHAKRA

153

Case Histories -Gerrard" Gerrard

a very successful businessman in his

is

mid

who

sixties

amassed a huge empire and great wealth

in his business life.

millionaire and father to several children

from

has

He

is

a multi-

who had

his first wife,

mental breakdown after suffering years of his domination and

a

infidelity.

His second wife has a more resilient ego, but was unable to transform his

and domineering patterns of behavior. Gerrard believed

selfish

wasn't anything in

life

but his will to

the evidence of this in his business

and

rigid,

and he held

A few

became weaker and that

He

things happen.

and personal

them with vigor and

years ago one of his daughters

was deeply upset and

powers

to

make

said he felt

His ideas were

life.

brittle

tenacity.

became

disturbed, as any father

that there

ill

would

with cancer, and he be.

As

his daughter

closer to the end, Gerrard found himself praying to the

be to help his daughter.

He

actually

hoped

that she

might

recover from the strength of his prayers alone.

When asked

if

his daughter

found out

that her father

was praying

for her she

they could pray together. Gerrard found this very difficult at

first

because he was embarrassed that he might be considered weak. Eventually he relented to please his daughter. They became closer and more loving with one another as they shared their deepest hopes of her recovery.

Although she eventually died, her passing was peaceful, and Gerrard a real sense of

felt

his

harmony and love

busy and tumultuous

now

life.

that

he had never known before

He had found

the spirit within himself

in

and

shares with close friends and family the story of his daughter's death,

feeling assured that her spirit to a higher

dimension of

life

is

well and lives on.

He

has opened himself

He different way now. He is to people. He spends his

and, as a result, has been transformed.

sees life and relates to people in a completely

more gentle and aware, and has time

to listen

leisure time with his family enjoying the blessings of their

experience transformed his Egotist archetype, and he

complete person.

is

company. His

a more open and

AND

c'HAKRAS

154

IHIilK

ARCH KIYPK.S

Jenny Jenny was

have been made into a

She was

bom

in

many

film.

Germany

most of her young events for

when

in her early thirties

life in

met

I

She had a Hfe

her.

was fraught with adventure,

It

could

that

and drama.

travel

end of the Second World War and lived

at the

Africa.

She tamed horses and rode

in national

She had a highly developed sense of her personal

years.

power and a very strong ego. She never had any reason

to surrender to a

higher power other than her own. Surrender was actually an uncomfortable

word

to her as

it

was something she could never imagine doing

was a

anything. She

free spirit

in

making a

where

went

life for herself. In

sex and was cut

down

in the

to turn to as she

after in a hospice

Europe

to arrive in

retrained as a secretary and

to

little in

to the care of family.

who

prime of her

life.

in

eternal.

her

life.

came

life.

or

died, that she

into contact with

their spiritual beliefs with her.

to understand

that the

drama of her

and experience,

was stronger than death and

life

in the

that her spirit

to recognize her true spirituality for the first time

She was an inspiration

months of her

whom

had no deep or close relationships. She was looked

she was. She

She began

She

through casual

She didn't know

where she was eventually brought

months before she

was

AIDS

1989 she contracted

She reached death's door before she realized not

hand except her

America where she quickly succeeded

some very caring people who shared was

anyone or

and an independent person.

After a dramatic escape from Africa with

memories, she managed

to

to the

people

many young people

Like so

who knew her in down in their

cut

the last

prime,

she could have died angry and resentful. Instead she saw this as an opportunity to experience the unconditional love of

people

who

from one

through the

loved and cared for her as she lay dying. In the months before

she died, she grew in passing.

God channeled

spirit

She became clear

and guided many other people through

that

we

that place within ourselves.

like her in

every

AIDS

are

She

hospice

all spirit

and need

said that there

in the

world.

I

their

to learn to live

was probably some-

hope she

is right.

THE CROWN CHAKRA

ISS

Functional Archetype: The Guru

Guru

Recognizing The Releasing

other archetypes leaves us with the highest level of responsibility, vital-

all

and empowerment.

ity

know

life,

that

there waiting for

it is

As we move

you are not ready

If

into the

assume

Guru archetype,

and we tap into the joy and

Source,

we

bliss

the realm of possibilities expands to the

of our

Here we are one with the

spirit.

whole and complete.

are

represents the archetype of mastery on the spiritual plane. At this level

we can

our

attain in

of being brings

state

is

life.

It

is

the highest

development. The awareness and energy

life's

always high, clear and beautiful. There

archetype between self and

this

for your

to transform yourself.

of reality the Guru embodies the essence of love and awareness. archetype

power

this ultimate

you when you are willing

infinite

The Guru

to

Everything and everyone

no separation with

is is

linked in a oneness

which resonates with a continuous flow of universal love and consciousness.

we

we

exist at this level

this

When

operate through the laws of attraction and discernment.

Separation, judgement and criticism of oneself are not part of this archetype.

There

is

only oneness, acceptance and love of

self,

experienced as the grace of one's

Divine Nature. This archetype knows that

it is

the Source of

scious responsibility for every aspect of into acceptable,

what has been dark

its life. It

into light

all its

experience and accepts con-

turns

what has been unacceptable

and what has been hidden into what

can be loved and embraced. Every experience brings the awareness that everything is

to help us

develop into

Native Americans

spiritual beings.

know

this to the extent that their

ings of the Great Spirit in every word. Spirit

Holy men and

women

are sensitive

may

contained within

throughout the ages have had

this force in their teachings

who

is

languages describe the work-

this

of

lives

feel this

itself. It lives in

and

is

aware

from

living things.

knowledge and channeled

and healing, hoping to unite people everywhere. Those connection with the Source within themselves and in

others around them. Spirit resides everywhere and there

Guru archetype

all

that place within itself

which

the awareness of the totality of

that this totality sustains

and nourishes

life,

is

is

no place

it

is not.

The

one with the highest part

with no separation from

all life at all

times.

it,

CHAKRAS AND

156

The Guru's it

is

one with the core of

awareness

Guru

in

The

themselves.

compassion and

to live with

and

light

which we know as

ing external

power

Guru knows

that all

of this awareness.

From

The Guru never rize or define

because

It

it.

knows is

The Guru

call serenity.

expressing

life

go of our mind

around

anyone

that

may

else's

spirit

it

it,

sets

which

is

about

who we

think

available to us

life to

we may

be.

core,

catego-

themselves,

profound

state-

that love is

It is

it is.

in

which

is

universal and eternal. It

The Guru knows

knows

It

accepts its

body

this

life is

ourselves to the high-

harmony with all.

is

the

at will.

itself

Guru

and

there

only the oneness

as the creation of

even

in the face

The Guru

to protect

and defend

itself.

all

is

of negativity.

negativity

its

mind and

often has enlight-

is

its

wonder and beauty of

the soul.

negativity,

which

it

It

knows

own

that neg-

an illusion created by

it

represents the true light of

impervious to the shadow side of human nature because

dark side and released

within one's

Neither physical or emotional pain, nor

rejection or humiliation can affect the Guru, because spirit. It is

To

existed before time and

love and that love

only fear expressed outward and that

mind

body

its

spirit

is

in returning to spirit.

the purpose of

never falters in realizing

the limited

its

and helps

The Guru archetype

the fullest and radiating love to

has the power to cure and heal

ativity is

At

development

illusions of separation

all

when we open

all

who

of love. This archetype lives

embracing

ened deaths and finds joy

self. It

the

not seek-

limit,

knowledge

lives its life in the truth of the

will continue to exist after time. that

is

self.

life for

be. Its very being represents a

no boundaries which separate, nor time which divides. There

are

What

itself in the fullness

circumstances which

presence of a true master shatters

in the

est aspirations

of

we

also does not attempt to interfere with

a level of awareness

all

life.

are.

To be let

others

instills in

power comes only from being one's

identifies with negativity or

it

them

which we experience

understands that everyone must learn the lessons of

it

knows

of consciousness comes true empowerment.

this point

ment about love because

us to

Guru

it

to help

mastery. This includes mastery over

is

love and chooses to live

no matter how hard or painful

who we

real

and

to teach others

is

health; mastery over the emotions,

as stability;

it

profound consciousness;

be one with the whole of

to

and mastery over the mind, which as

lYI'liS

li

quintessential quality the

signifies in the hierarchy of the archetypes

the body,

the

this

Divine Spirit incarnate. Often the Guru's work

find this is

identity is

ARCM

riH.IR

knows

to

it

has met

its

own

be the illusion that masks the

THE CROWN CHAKRA

The Guru understands

thing

it

thinks

The Guru

is.

it

reflection of the glory that

ness of our

spirit. It

and accepts hmitation as an essential

the nature of people

aspect of growth and development.

we

also

It

157

knows

that

humankind

when we

represents transcendence in

greater than any-

Divine Love and

lives in the light of

are capable of

is

is

a perfect

strive for the depths

and

full-

purest form.

its

Owning Your Guru Archetype To own your Guru archetype requires a high of yourself as you

are.

Most people would

enment without having fully with

we

total

to

powerful than anything around manifest

Our deepest be our hardest

When we

we

spirit

go

to a

Guru and be offered

an act of surrender to

is

more

us.

enlight-

all that

one

is. It

in

self

means more

creative than our imagination and

When we know

our hearts that the purpose of

are free to be ourselves.

spiritual nature is love

task.

rather

and complete acceptance

do the inner work required of them. Accepting one's

love and gratitude

are greater than our limitations,

life is to

level of love

This acceptance

lets

and our acceptance of us

become

that inner light

the living light in our

own

may

lives.

surrender to the lost and fragmented parts of ourselves and love, adore and

cherish ourselves

we embody

the Guru. This

is

how we

heal ourselves and

become

whole again.

To own your Guru archetype and be willing

self,

to sit at a

to purify

it is

your

necessary to

spirit

let

go of everything

that isn't

with love and acceptance. You don't need

Guru's feet to learn to love and care for yourself and direct your

the path of your heart's desire.

requires letting

go of

external world.

It

and delight.

It

all

your

life in

To become enlightened and aware of who you

the delusions of selfhood

are

you have ever ingested from your

means, as well, that you go inside to experience your

own wonder

can help to have the guidance and direction of a loving being to help

you when you are stuck with

false identifications of yourself.

Someone who has had

a direct experience of self will always encourage you to find and live from your true self.

Whenever you

are stuck or blocked

who

lives their life

from

this place

Enlightenment has come

it

can be useful

to seek help

from someone

of love and peace.

many people who

simple and tranquil

life,

doing the best they can for themselves and others. These people are not great

stars

to

illuminating the minds of the masses. the Source lives within real pleasure

They

live a

often live quite content lives and

them and illuminates every aspect of their being.

and delight

to

know and

to

be around.

They

know are a

To own your own God are.

AND

CHAKRAii

158

It

is

THIilR ARCm:'IYPI-.S

nature requires you to truly want to experience

who you

also essential to give up any identifications which limit your beauty, intel-

wisdom

ligence and

so that you can fully experience in your heart that you are a

radiant being, one with the Source. There never has been nor will there ever be any-

one as unique as you

become

the Divine

When you

are.

share this awareness your will and the will of

one.

Exercise 1

Sit in silence, quietly

As you

let

go of

yourself slip

You

the thoughts

away

will feel in the depths of

2 Ask yourself what it

and pictures

you begin

as

been one with your

If

breathing in and out. Hold this stillness deep inside of you.

is

in

your mind

to enter a state

where you are one with your

self.

your heart that you are connected and have always

self.

outside of you?

Is there

anything which

is

separate from you?

appears to be can you see that this comes from the dictates of your mind which

create the illusion of separation?

you. This

is

You may experience everything

your mind holding sway over you.

will experience that

you are

at

one with

When you

all life;

that

you and God are one. This

you compete you are

really only

is

as separate from

can drop your mind you

you are connected. This makes

easy to drop your competitiveness and striving and

edge

your identifications of

let

let

yourself rest in the knowl-

called surrender.

competing with yourself.

You may

When you

find that

3 Find time every day to be with your be interrupted and that in the core of

dation of vitality

who you

you

will

let

yourself

self.

sit in silent

like bright

diamonds

The awareness of

need for your daily

life.

self.

When

in the light.

Find a quiet place where you will not meditation. Let yourself be and

your being you are peace, joy and beauty are.

when

abuse yourself

or treat yourself badly you are damaging your vital connection to your

you love and honor yourself your worth shines

it

this will

itself.

This

is

know

the foun-

give you the energy, clarity and

THE CROWN CHAKRA

159

The Myth Of The Guru Archetype The myth our

own

we are separate from the Source that we need to do something to be

feeds our fears that

that

or

we would be

are nothing

blessed or rewarded by God.

created that awareness as separate from ourselves.

our light were to fully shine

we

We

We

on

have

are, in truth, so glorious that if

dazzled by the intensity of our

own

self.

Release anything in your past which binds your attachment to negative ideas you

have about

who you

think you are. Forgive

Here you

into the light of the self.

The myth

that there are people

we need

answers which

What

a Guru

and

you

What you may have you

know

will

There

you are

to

work on

do

you

The

True

is

are

you allow yourself

the center

to serve

all

They

mind of

them

who

are or

you learn

to

be

cannot give at

one with

spiritual

development

can only offer you an experience of is all

that

self.

you

pretends to have answers that you don't have or

only taking your spiritual freedom from

is

you be yourself and respect and honor

create the space and the atmosphere for this to happen. is

not an external manifestation,

who you

are

is

are always free to choose your path. are,

It

it is

an act of releas-

negativity and letting the beauty and grace of the spirit shine.

to trust that

who you

who have

and awareness requires

you follow the path of

some way

in

awakening

all

where

loving then you will be aware

to reach this level of clarity

truly great teachers ask only that

spiritual

move

exists within you.

simple and doesn't require you to be any other

that

is

more evolved than we

knowing and

that the truly great teachers

yourself deeply.

ing the

all

yourself. If

could possibly need. Anyone

you.

strength. This

absolutely nothing else to give. That experience of yourself

is

requires

forgiving and

the opportunity to experience your self.

is

you need already

patience and real

who

and

who need

it.

are outside of you. If

to recognize that

that everything

Enjoy

those

prevalent in spiritual communities throughout the world.

is

truly gives

you any answers which life

will find joy

serene, beautiful and peaceful.

all is

all

your

self.

way

are the

how you are. From this and lovely. Remember you

than

perfectly acceptable

You

It

Guru any time you choose

to

be

CMAKRAS AND

160

11

1;

1

IK AKCIIIirYIMiS

M E DITATION Sit in a

comfortable and relaxed position with your spine straight and

come

breathing be soft and rhythmical. Allow yourself to Feel

your

eyes pulling

let

back to your

back towards the back of your head and

your Self.

your Crown

feel

chakra opening at the top of your head. Imagine golden

coming

light

through your body starting

each chakra.

It

at

through the crown of your head.This the top of your head and moving

filling

your lungs and expanding

light

now moves

toxins and waste as

Here

it

neys, as

it

cleanses your it

moves

into

liver

legs

genital organs.

and

into

love and

is

comforts you and brings you peace.

It

It

IS

Plexus,

moves on

When

is

a

light

removing

into

kid-

your

gift

It

moves

soothes you and takes

from your

self

to you.

It

you acknowledge the Source with

thanks and gratitude for your ever deepening awareness of

own

It

your hands.

your feet and toes.

through you and connects you with the earth. This

the peace of your

into

your entire body and your energy system.

pain or stress. This light

into

your lower back and the Sacral chakra.

into

your bowels and

Feel the light cleansing

in

down through

and stomach, your digestive organs and your

Root chakra and then down your

away any

floods

your Heart chakra.

body to the Solar

further into your

moves down

into

down your arms and

your back and shoulders and moves

This

light

moves down through your Crown and Brow chakra and

your Throat chakra. fills

in

self

you can

rest

light.

enough to say "Thank you

for

who

I

am" and come back

to your normal

waking consciousness.

Vitality

The kind of energy you need

this

for playing a

sensitive that jarring still,

yet flowing.

archetype brings

game of

tennis.

movements or

is

It is

a different type of vitahty from the kind a form of energy which

fractious behavior can unsettle

is

so refined and

it.

It is,

in fact,

THE CROWN CHAKRA

161

This energy can give you the stamina and vitahty to withstand highly stressful or difficult situations. to joy

and beauty as

It

can

you during

fortify

is

and

stress

and

it

can open you

well. This energy is the special vitality required of people

do demanding tasks and never seem This

crisis

the energy of the spirit

to tire.

and

it

works on an inner plane when we

awareness with love and harmony. People unusual kind of stamina and

who

vitality.

who have

They

often

achieved

this

cultivate

archetype have an

do what would appear

to

normal

eyes to be extraordinary feats, requiring tremendous vitality and energy. They are

channeling energy from the Higher Self to accomplish whatever This

is

the Source this level

Our

also the energy

we become

use

when we

are being creative.

asked of them.

When we open

co-creators of the universe and in turn, of our

whatever we consciously imagine has the potential

spirits are creative

spiritual

we

is

and whatever

we do

own

To channel

its

with our creativity helps to refine our

the vitality

from the Guru archetype, you can do the following.

Reflect on the nature of your true self

Pray for peace and well-being for yourself and others and share your joy

Develop compassion for

Read books by

this place

beauty and serenity.

Practice meditation for 15-20 minutes daily

Laugh with

At

to manifest into reality.

energy for healing and transformation. Allow yourself to open to

within and experience

lives.

to

all life

the world's spiritual leaders

all

sentient beings

CHAKRAS AND IHLIK AKCI

162

I

KlYI'liS

Empowerment When we acknowledge

Guru archetype within ourselves we

the

are reconnecting to

the highest and most refined energy available to us.

We

are uniting our consciousness with the eternal and sacred within our spirit.

As we empower

ourselves in the fullest

way we honor our Divine

/

am

one with the Source.

I

am

the truth, the light

I

am

united with all souls throughout eternity.

My power

rests in

I

am

love. I

I

am

peace and

Who

I

There

I

am is

being

am joy.

is

and

I

the way.

who

I

am.

am freedom.

serenity.

me.

no separation.

I

am

one with

all

life.

thank the Source for the profound experience of myself.

Gratitude awakens the good to unfold in

I

essence.

acknowledge that

all

moment of love and

my

I

create

I

channel

life

my

my

my

life.

past experiences have brought

me

to this

total acceptance.

consciously and with love.

highest

good and

greatest joy to renew

and transform my

life.

CONCISION

We

all

need awareness,

and empowerment for living happy

vitality

be loved, accepted and respected and

to

sometimes

it is

must give ourselves these things before anyone us a lifetime to

come

be easy and only is

to grips

we can

decide that

who we

worth the struggle and pain of putting our

ening and

we may

feel that

we

light forward.

witness the directions becoming clearer about what

and where we need

to

go

to

do

that.

It

wrong thing

We

to us.

it

can be lonely and

However,

the world around us.

have met them

to

to

You

fright-

potential to manifest

and

should do for ourselves

connected and one with

to the best of

are never alone.

your

light.

The

the challenges

all

some

life

and

ing. Eventually you'll

ability,

is to

do

you need for your growth.

don't stay stuck in them,

move

Trust the Source within you to guide and

light

you the friends and teachers you need.

May you

world

can

do for your development and growth, the prayer

onto higher levels of awareness and protect you.

would

have the opportunity of meeting some won-

feel absolutely

with love. Life will present you with

When you

take

These experiences make the journey worthwhile.

Whatever you decide it

we

we

it

derful people along the path of light, as well as the opportunity of sharing

deeply beautiful moments where

want

may

to offer the

at times.

we

It

one ever said

and what we have

when we allow our

also be fun, challenging and rewarding

we

are

are doing the

them

No

gifts.

We

difficult to realize that

else can give

with our talents and

lives.

of your Divine Nature will always draw

We

are

understand that growing

be blessed with good fortune

in

is

all

students and

we

are

the ultimate challenge in

your quest.

God

bless us

all.

all

learn-

life.

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