We hear a lot about the third eye when it comes to intuition and psychic perception. It relates to the sixth chakra and corresponds physically to the pineal gland in the brain. Considered the “principal seat of the soul” by French philosopher Rene Descartes, this small area of the brain accounts for intuition, knowledge and awareness beyond the ordinary.
About the Third Eye
The third eye is much more than just the pineal gland. In fact the association of the third eye with the pineal gland was mostly espoused by the teachings of Theosophy by Helena Blavatsky during the 1800’s. Other religious and mystery traditions view the third eye a little differently.
Hinduism considers the third eye to be located slightly above and between the eyebrows in the middle of the forehead. Taoist teachings show the third eye beginning between the two physical eyes, extending upwards to the middle of the forehead. Meanwhile, Rosicrucianism has the third eye located in the pituitary and pineal gland areas.
Regardless of its true and actual location, the important thing to focus on is the third eye’s function. The third eye is responsible for our intuition, our inner vision and psychic insight. It helps us see beyond the veil of ordinary reality.
Awakening the Third Eye
In most people the third eye remains dormant. Why? For one, most people are not aware of even having this connection to Source. In addition, mainstream society does not encourage the exploration and cultivation of intuitive and psychic gifts. Thanks to the Internet, however, this is slowly beginning to change as people become more aware of esoteric knowledge.
Awakening the third eye is not something to be taken lightly. Attempting a quick fix, going too fast or forcing it can result in a flood of images and perceptions that you may not be ready for immediately. It’s like starting an exercise program. If you try to do too much or go too fast you risk injury. The same goes for the third eye. So when developing this area, remember slow and steady is best.
Tips for Awakening the Third Eye
There are many things you can do to awaken the third eye. Diet, exercises and working with crystals are just some methods you can use.
Watch your diet when working on your third eye. Avoid processed foods as much as possible. Preservatives and chemical additives reduce this area’s functioning. Experts also recommend avoiding fluoride and fluoridated water as it leads to calcification of the pineal gland.
Exercises can also help awaken your third eye. Simple meditation can be helpful, especially when you turn your attention to your third eye area. As you meditate visualize this area in indigo blue and imagine a light glowing and pulsating in the middle of your head. Breath deeply and rhythmically inhaling and exhaling, each to the count of five. Keep this meditation short for only five or ten minutes and try to practice it daily.
Remember to go slowly. You may feel some pressure in your head or experience headaches. This is a sign that your third eye is awakening. If headaches persist, discontinue the meditations for a while and seek professional care if needed. In most cases, you’ll only experience mild discomfort for a short period.
Working with crystals can also help awaken your third eye. Certain crystals have energetic vibrations that coincide with the frequency of the third eye chakra. Some of the better-known crystals are: amethyst, lapis lazuli, blue topaz and blue tourmaline. A clear quartz crystal can also work. You can wear your crystals around your neck, hold them while meditating, or place them on your third eye area between your brows for a few minutes.
As you awaken your third eye you will find that your psychic perceptions become clearer. Your inner vision and intuition will strengthen and grow. It won’t happen overnight, but you will see steady progress. Good luck with your awakening!
