The second chakra. Controls sexual energy and creativity. (1)
Function of the chakra
Also known as the sacral center, the swadisthana chakra is located about an inch and a half above the base of the spine. The nerves of the swadisthana chakra operate on the reproductive system. The sacral chakra is one of the seven chakras, that store and distribute energy; the chakras also serve as the repositories of psychological or mental tendencies, habits, and desires, which descend from the subconscious mind. (2)
The energy that emanates from the sacral chakra is grossly sensual. (3) Outwardly, the chakra governs sexual activities including procreation and expansion of the species. Inwardly, it leads to creativity of all kinds, as well as openness and the ability to receive new ideas and divine inspiration. (1)
Qualities of the chakra
The sacral chakra corresponds to the element of water. If one manifests the quality of flowing consciousness, then one can develop the positive and spiritual qualities of the swadisthana chakra. For example, while flowing consciousness directed outward could lead one to attach oneself to myriad, ever-changing phenomena in the world, the same consciousness directed inward enables even-mindedness in the midst of change. The ability to flow with life’s changes leads one to inner freedom. (1)
Another aspect of the water element is true discrimination. Developing the second chakra can contribute to a feeling of fluidity with other people; one learns to recognize how actions bring about pain or love. Discrimination or discernment between right or wrong enables loving and respectful relationships. (1)
But the development of the swadisthana chakra must follow the grounding of oneself in the first or muladhara chakra. Without the stability that the first chakra in the coccyx region provides, an overdeveloped second chakra leads to wishy-washy, irresolute, or hopelessly indecisive behavior. In order to settle down, one must develop the first two chakras in conjunction. (1)
The swadisthana chakra also corresponds to the color white. (4) Energy flows from it in six rays. (5) It produces a sound like Krishna’s flute. (6) The figure Nakula symbolizes the swadisthana chakra in its upward-moving energy in the Bhagavad Gita. (7)
- a b c d e Chakras for Starters, by Savitri Simpson. Chapter 3, “The Water Element.”
- ↩ Chakras for Starters, by Savitri Simpson. Chapter 1, “The Seven Gates to Freedom.”
- ↩ Right Action for Achieving Success and Happiness,” by Swami Kriyananda.
- ↩ Essence of the Bhagavad Gita, explained by Paramhansa Yogananda. Chapter 21, “Final Liberation.”
- ↩ Essence of the Bhagavad Gita, explained by Paramhansa Yogananda. Chapter 18, “The True Yoga.”
- ↩ Essence of the Bhagavad Gita, explained by Paramhansa Yogananda. Chapter 9, “Sanjaya Speaks.”
- ↩ Essence of the Bhagavad Gita, explained by Paramhansa Yogananda. Chapter 5, “The Genesis of the Story.”
