The sixth energy point, the third eye chakra, can help you listen to your inner wisdom, let go of the clutter, and feel more balanced. Sometimes we intuitively know exactly what we need, even without any apparent reason. The power behind this feeling often resides in our third eye chakra.
What is the third eye chakra (ajna)?
The third eye chakra, also known as ajna, is located between your eyebrows. According to ancient yoga traditions, it is one of the seven main chakras in your body. Ajna literally means "perception" or "command." This is fitting, as this area in your body is often associated with intuition, insight, and vision. The sixth chakra is also called the eye of Shiva or the eye of wisdom. These names refer to the divine and spiritual aspects of the chakra. The third eye is your inner eye and gives you the ability to see beyond physical sight.
That might sound mystical. But many recognize that "gut feeling" or that sudden inspiration that's always right. The idea is that when your third eye chakra is balanced, you make decisions more easily, feel more confident, and can see yourself and the world more clearly.
Did you know: In India, the third eye is sometimes drawn on the forehead with henna during rituals – as a symbol of protection and wisdom.
The symbolism behind the third eye
The third eye chakra is traditionally depicted as a purple or indigo wheel with two petals. Some yogis see it as a gateway to a deeper truth, far beyond what we see with our normal eyes. The symbol reminds us of the connection between the rational and the emotional—and of a sensitive trust in the unknown.
It's not at all surprising to be skeptical about the spiritual interpretation. What is, however, well-founded: regularly taking time for meditation and reflection increases your self-awareness and peace, according to various psychological studies. And that, in turn, fits nicely with the contemporary meaning of the third eye chakra.
Signs of a Balanced or Unbalanced Third Eye Chakra
You don't have to be a yoga guru to find balance. Some people find that the area around their forehead is extra sensitive when they're preoccupied. According to yogic traditions, an imbalanced ajna chakra can cause:
- Doubt yourself
- Lack of direction or clear thoughts
- Difficulty making decisions
- Endless worrying
- Sleeping less well
Your third eye chakra is considered balanced when you:
- Makes quick connections
- Dare to follow your own truth
- Self-confidence and creativity feels
- Easily find peace in your mind and body
- Open to new insights – without sacrificing yourself
Please note: these are spiritual traditions and not medical truths. Looking for professional help with mental health issues? This article is not medical advice – always consult a specialist.
How can you support your third eye chakra (ajna)?
Whether you're curious about philosophy or simply want more clarity, there are simple ways to support yourself. We'd like to share a few ideas, inspired by ancient traditions and modern science:
- Meditation and silence: Regularly sitting quietly for a few minutes can help you filter out the “noise” from outside.
- Breathing exercises: Breathe deeply in through your nose and out through your mouth, and focus briefly on the sensations between your eyebrows. This helps bring attention to the third eye chakra.
- Visualization: For the third eye chakra—the center of intuition and inner knowing—visualization isn't an add-on, but rather one of the most important tools. By turning inward and using your imagination, you activate precisely the energy this chakra needs to achieve balance.
- Yoga poses: Child's pose (balasana) and downward dog (adho mukha svanasana) are accessible and help to literally bring your head down – this gives rest to your forehead.
- Being outdoors: Looking outside (sunset, clouds, stars) gives your mind a rest and inspires your imagination – exactly what ajna works well for.
Whichever method you choose, it's essentially about turning inward with mindfulness. You don't have to sit on a mountain in India for that—you can try it at home today.
Practical tips to activate your third eye chakra daily
Connecting more deeply with your intuition doesn't require complicated rituals. It's the small, everyday things that can make a difference:
- In the morning, before you answer your phone, take one minute to pay attention to your breathing.
- After a yoga session, briefly write down what you felt.
- Choose a scent (like lavender or sandalwood) that you associate with relaxation, and incorporate it into your evening routine. Scents are sent directly to the limbic system in your brain (the part where emotions are processed) via your olfactory organ.
- Use gemstones like amethyst if you feel comfortable doing so – they are spiritually associated with the third eye, although there is no scientific evidence for their effectiveness.
- End your day by consciously focusing on your "third eye" for 30 seconds. Without judgment, without purpose, just a moment of attention there.
Ultimately, a balanced third eye chakra is all about allowing yourself to be still every now and then – and if you want, you can always use aids like a comfortable pillow, yoga mat or meditation habit to help you do that.
Want to dedicate a full yoga session to your third eye chakra? Then take this class from Kristyn Rose Yoga and bring it back into balance.
Third Eye Chakra Incense – Jasmine
The subtle, slightly sweet scent of jasmine opens the way to intuition, imagination, and clear insight. It strengthens the third eye chakra when you need direction, focus, or trust in your inner knowing.
Chakra incense helps you relax, focus, and deepen your senses – perfect for meditation or yoga practice. Each scent is tailored to a specific chakra and supports its associated energy.
Inspiring facts about the third eye chakra
Did you know that the brain region between your eyebrows (the prefrontal cortex) is often associated in modern neuroscience with self-reflection, planning for the future, and moral considerations? In that sense, ancient yogic insights and modern science are sometimes closer together than you think.
Cultures worldwide refer to an "inner eye." In ancient Egyptian religion, for example, the Eye of Horus symbolizes protection, strength, and health. In Hinduism, the god Shiva bears a third eye as a symbol of inner strength.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can you open the third eye chakra?
With meditation, breathing exercises, visualizations, and yoga poses, you can bring your attention to the third eye. It's not about "opening" it like a door, but about consciously connecting with your intuition and clarity. Do what feels right for you.
How do I know if my third eye chakra is out of balance?
Difficulty focusing, doubting your choices, headaches or feeling stuck in your head can be signs of imbalance.
Is intuition the same as the third eye?
Intuition is one of the functions of the third eye chakra. It helps you see and feel what's right, even if you don't (yet) have logical proof.
How do I gently activate my third eye chakra?
Meditation, visualizations with indigo light, keeping track of your dreams, and time in silence will help you gently open this chakra.
Can overstimulation block my third eye chakra?
Yes. Too much screen time, stress, or constant information can cloud your mental clarity. Time offline and rest are especially important in these situations.