Certain geometric patterns bring about a change in the brain structure. Meditating on the bindu in the Sri Chakra is said to activate the pineal gland, as it compels us to bring our attention to the spot between our eyebrows.
The pineal gland is a small endocrine gland, shaped like a tiny pine cone. It derives its name from Latin “pinea” which means “pine cone.” This pea-sized organ is responsible for the production of melatonin, a hormone that affects the modulation of our sleep/wake patterns, which in turn determines the production of other hormones, controls stress levels and seasonal circadian rhythms in the body.
Melatonin is also known as an anti-aging and anti-stress agent because it is involved in the dual action of suppressing cortisol and working as a powerful antioxidant.
The pineal gland is located near the centre of the brain between the two hemispheres, at the same level with the eyes which led to it being called the “third eye.” In modern times, a great deal of scientific studies have been undertaken to understand the role of the pineal gland. The pineal area is covered in cerebrospinal fluid and has more blood flow per cubic volume than any other organ, making it the gland with the highest concentration of energy in the body.
In humans, the pineal cells resemble retinal cells in position and in the presence of proteins, something not found anywhere else in the body, thereby adding merit to its definition as the third eye.
Researchers have found that the pineal gland produces DMT (dimethyltriptamine). DMT is produced when the body goes through extraordinary situations such as giving birth, during sexual ecstasy, extreme physical stress and near-death experiences. It is also said to be produced during deep meditation. DMT is said to alter our dream consciousness when released into the bloodstream, during the “rapid eye movement” phase of sleep.
DMT links the body and spirit because of its relationship to visionary experiences and non-ordinary states of transcendent consciousness. This property about DMT prompted Dr. Rick Strassman to call it the Spirit Molecule. Many scientists now suggest that the pineal gland may indeed be the “seat of consciousness” based on the outcome of studies that described the role of this tiny gland – until recently considered a vestigial organ – which is of far greater importance than commonly assumed.
The connection between pineal gland and consciousness can be traced back to Egyptian, Indian and even Tibetan traditions. In Egypt, when the Pharoahs were mummified using elaborate processes of embalming and purifying, their pineal glands were removed carefully and placed in separate jars. The contents of these jar were considered as containing the gateway to the afterlife.
In India, the pineal gland is seen as the representation of the sixth chakra (ajna), and the ubiquitous bindi,which adorns a woman’s forehead, is said to protect her, by blocking negative energies from reaching the third eye. The ajna chakra is said to be the seat of wisdom, intuition and imagination. A blocked ajna chakra is characterized by a lack of intuition and imagination, thereby leading to the inability to make the right decisions and inhibiting spiritual expansion and growth.
The Tibetans believe that life of an embryo begins on the 49th day after conception. It is strange that it is on the 49th day that the pineal gland starts to develop in a human embryo. This can lead us to understand why the pineal gland is considered the seat of consciousness by some experts.
The pineal gland is not protected by the blood-brain barrier and therefore it cannot defend itself against harmful toxins that enter the bloodstream. Specific toxins, such as synthetic fluoride and synthetic calcium, are shown to have an affinity with the pineal gland. These toxins weaken its abilities to produce neurotransmitters and receive photons of light from external sources.
It is important, therefore, to ensure that the pineal gland is working at its optimal capacity, in order to enjoy the benefits of spiritual growth and awareness.
10 Ways to Activate an Under-performing Pineal Gland
- Adequate hydration and good nutrition
Our bodies are made up of up to 75% water. Therefore, it is very important to consume adequate amounts of water to ensure activation of the pineal gland. Additionally, a balanced diet high in tryptophan is helpful in providing the building blocks for the important biochemical produced by the pineal gland. Tryptophan is found in many foods including eggs, most kinds of seeds (including sesame, chia, sunflower, pumpkin), most nuts (maximum in almonds, pistachios, hazelnuts), dark chocolate and bananas.
- Exposure to sunlight
Indians have been following the tradition of sun worship since Vedic times. Exposure to early morning sun stimulates the pineal gland. Exposure to sunlight is necessary for other body functions as well, and it is recommended that we spend at least 10 to 15 minutes of the day, preferably in the early morning, in the sunlight to enjoy optimal health and well-being.
- Sleeping in complete darkness
It is also important to note that the time spent in darkness helps the pineal gland in suppressing serotonin and increasing melatonin, which is necessary to induce sleep. A dark environment in the bedroom is very important to ensure a good night’s rest.
We should especially avoid blue light which comes from sources such as television, computer screens and smartphones. Blue light leads to the stimulation of serotonin, forcing the body to think that it is daytime, thereby upsetting the wake and sleep cycle.
- Tapping
Gentle tapping on the forehead in between the eyebrows activates the pineal gland. The vibration sends a wave directly to the pineal gland, activating it in the process.
- Pressing
Pressing the tongue against the roof of the mouth activates the pituitary gland, and through its physical and chemical connections, activates the pineal gland and hypothalamus. This method is also used in Ayurveda and Yoga, and is akin to the kechari mudra practised by ancient seers.
- Staying cheerful
Laughing and smiling help reduce stress and induce relaxation in the body, thereby increasing the flow of positive energy. Laughter leads to the release of endorphins, the feel-good hormone. Relaxation increases blood flow, which amplifies the effects of the hormones released in the body.
- Focus and attention
It is a well-known fact that our energy flows to wherever our attention goes. Focusing our attention on the pineal gland will help activate it.
- Meditation and visualization
Meditation has numerous benefits that are often written about. But one of the lesser-known benefits of mindfulness is better activation of the pineal gland. Meditating guides bio-electric energy to the pineal gland, thereby facilitating a greater sense of clarity and improving intuition.
Visualization cannot take place without the use of the third eye. We can choose to practice any form of visualization or guided imagery to help the pineal gland become more active.
- Chanting
Chanting causes the tetrahedron bone in the nose to resonate, which creates a stimulation of the pineal gland. We can begin with the chanting of “Om,” or any other prayer that appeals to us.Ritual worship of Sri Chakra Yantra
- Ritual worship of the Sri Chakra Yantra
Any ritual that involves concentration helps remove blocks and activate the pineal gland. A practice which incorporates visualization, chanting and meditation is perhaps the best way to ensure optimal functioning of the gland. Furthermore, it has been observed that focussing on one point (as we do with the bindu in the Sri Chakra) leads to a convergence of the eyeballs and energy comes to rest at the third eye, which is the seat of the pineal gland.
The physical benefits of an active
pineal gland can be felt in various aspects of living such as greater balance
in our work-life ratio, improved well-being, better functioning of bio-rhythms
and improved hormonal states. In terms of emotional benefits, we will find that
we are calmer, better at decision-making, more at peace with ourselves and
others and there’s a renewed zest for life.
537 total views, 1 views today