Endocrine system consists of ductless glands. They pass their secretions directly into
the blood or lymph instead of into excretory ducts. The endocrine glands are thyroid, parathyroid, pancreas, supra renal,
pituitary and gonads. Thyroid is one of the most powerful agents set up by nature to protect against poisons.
Enlarged thyroid develops into goiter. Here is the comparative list of chakras and
the corresponding glands in the endocrine system: Sahasrara chakra the pituitary (Situated at the crown of the head Bindu
(meaning point) the brain center (At the top back portion of the head)
Note: It is associated with the production of semen Ajna the center of the facial Facade
Vishuddhi Thyroid and parathyroid Anhata Adrenals Manipura Solar plexus or pancreas Swadhishtana Ovaries Mooladhara Perineum
or the testicles Kundallini sakthi emanates from the Mooladdhara chakra or perineum and travels to Sahasrara chakra by constant
and regular practice of yoga and in particular pranayama.
The nadis or channels are purified, the vital life force or prana rises through the
central channel making the mind completely silent. ‘This state of steadiness of the mind is indeed the state of liberation’
says Hathayoga pradipika. The physiology of this process is not very clear. It is however the experience of those who practice
yogic breathing for extended periods of time that the mind becomes silent. Our normal breathing is controlled by a nervous
center situated in the medulla oblongata (which is a part of the nervous system between the brain and the spinal chord).
This respiratory system is made up of two parts; one responsible for the act of inhalation
and the other exhalation. Deep breathing involves additional impulses coming from the brain cortex. It is not known to many
how this causes the mind to be silent. Why should the mind be silent? The answer is: The mind has two parts; one impure and
the other pure. The impurities of the mind are caused by desire and passion. Mind itself is the cause of bondage and liberation.
Sankaracharya gave four different names for the mind according to its function: 1 Manas for the activity of resolving and
doubting 2 Buddhi when it comes to decision making or judgment 3 Asmita, the fact of consciousness of its own existence. 4
Chita the act of remembering previous experiences. Continued........... Yoga & Chakras Part-2
