The crown chakra is our connection to spirit. Located at the top of the head, the crown chakra is the seventh energy center of the chakra system. In Sanskrit, it called sahasrara, which means “the lotus flower of 1000 petals.” Balancing the crown chakra connects us to the spiritual world and opens the doorway to enlightenment.
Benefits of Balancing the Crown Chakra
When the crown chakra is open and balanced, we experience ourselves as spiritual beings. Our intuition is sharp, and we can tap into the wisdom of the Divine. We understand our purpose and do not fear death. However, when the crown chakra is out of balance—either underactive or overactive—we are not able to operate at this higher energy level.
When crown chakra energy is low, we may feel empty and wonder about the purpose and meaning of life. We might question the existence of God or a higher power and feel that we are not loved. Mental and emotional illnesses and fear of death can also be symptoms of energy blocks in the seventh chakra.
On the other hand, when there is too much crown chakra energy, we can be disconnected from the reality of human life. If we are too connected to the spirit world, others may see us as “out there,” and we may even begin to think of ourselves as “not of this world.”
Balancing the seventh chakra is key to a healthy experience as a spiritual being living a human life. After all, we are here for a time, and it’s likely there’s a reason for that.
Physical symptoms of crown chakra imbalance may include headaches, especially migraines, as well as nervous system disorders. In severe cases, dementia and mental illness may point to blocks in crown chakra energy.
Yoga Poses for Balancing the Crown Chakra
Headstand is the king of poses for balancing the crown chakra. Other yoga poses for balancing the crown chakra include plow, shoulder stand and seated forward bend.
Poses that facilitate meditation, such as lotus, half lotus, and easy sitting pose are also effective for balancing the crown chakra.
Color, Sound, and Aromas for Balancing the Crown Chakra
Crown chakra colors—violet and white (which is a combination of all colors)—help us vibrate in harmony with higher consciousness. Chanting “om,” the universal vibration, is also an effective way to open the crown chakra.
Certain aromas, too, can help awaken spiritual energy. Essential oils like lavender, neroli, sandalwood, frankincense, and myrrh are good choices for balancing the crown chakra. Many of these aromas are also effective for opening the third eye (sixth) chakra, which is source of personal intuition that allows us to tap into universal energy.
In yoga, our goal is union with all that is. Whether we describe it as union with God, with the universe, or something else, balancing the crown chakra can help us reach that goal.
