Understanding The Third Eye

The third eye is a term that can have a variety of meanings in the metaphysical sciences. It can relate to chakras of the body, enlightenment and even having the ability to exercise psychic powers. Although the term can be used for various purposes, it always relates back to an ability to see beyond the physical and gain a higher level of awareness.

In the chakra system, the third eye relates to the brow area. It is located between the eyebrows themselves or is somewhat higher placed in the forehead between the brows. Chakras relate to the layers of the human aura found at different points on the body. Although there are technically hundreds of chakras or focal points in the human aura, metaphysical practices identify seven major points, with the third eye being just one of them.

While all chakra points are important, the third eye is highly connected to all the senses and awareness. It is associated with the color indigo or dark blue. It is said to govern the lower portion of the brain, the ears and nose. It also relates to the nervous system and the pituitary gland.

In addition to its connection to the body, the third eye chakra is also highly related to the spiritual realm. This chakra is said to be associated with the ability to experience and even see into other dimensions during meditation. Astral awareness is related to this chakra. When the third eye chakra is awakened during meditation, a number of abilities are said to open up including higher cognition, remote viewing, intuition, telekinesis and telepathy. Inasmuch, psychic powers are often said to be related to this chakra.

While the third eye is highly connected with the chakra system, this term can have other uses in religion and vernacular. In the Hindu and Buddhist religions, for example, the third eye is considered a symbol of enlightenment and wisdom. The Indian practice of wearing a tilka, for example, relates to the third eye. This is why Buddha and Shiva are depicted with a third eye in images and iconography to denote enlightenment. In Western culture and popular culture, people who possess the “third eye” are those who can see into the future, evoke spirits and otherwise exercise psychic abilities. Having the “third eye” enables people to view and do things others cannot.

Unlocking the third eye and tapping into its power is the focus of many metaphysical sciences in that the goal is often to awaken a person to the power of the mind to affect matter and even circumstances. In yoga, for example, practitioners seek to gain enlightenment - that is to gain a higher level of spiritualism and cognition that goes beyond the physical realm.