The images show a solitary, meditating figure in different environments. Each setting corresponds to the ancient metaphysical energy system within the body, known as "chakras".
I am not a chakra meditation practitioner, so I approached this as a metaphorical work of art. I've finally decided to post the "Chakra Ascension" series, for other people to contemplate.
I'll be introducing a new image every day, from now until the Summer Solstice- June 21, 2014.
*Now that it's complete, here is a link to the whole series. There's also a free e-book version that can be downloaded at this link :
by Paul Micarelli
Scroll down for the description of Chakra 3, Manipura.
Click for larger images
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This image represents the 3rd level of Ascension- the Navel Chakra, Manipura.
The color associated with this chakra is yellow, and its element is fire.
The fire quality of Manipura radiates warmth and light energy.
The attributes of this energy level relate to the intellect, personal power, and transformation. Power is created at this stage by fusing the polarities formed in the previous stages, and using all the knowledge gained from the senses and emotions of the dualistic lower levels.
In terms of human history, this level can be seen as a nostalgic impression of the mystical age that existed before remembered time- in which such magnificent creations as the Pyramids, Stonehenge, and other ancient structures showed a level of sophistication that baffles us, even today.
The pyramids, with their polished limestone faces and gold capstones, represent wisdom combining the perceived duality of mind and body into a completely realized human being.
From the empty desert, man can raise seemingly impossible monuments, using his vitality and inner strength.
However, care must be taken, in order to prevent such powerful feats from distorting the ego's sense of self-importance.
The gold capstone atop the pyramid mimics the golden form of The Observer, on top of his pillar- a symbol of humanity as the culmination of the material world, in which the four elements converge into the unique phenomenon of the spiritual human being.
This idea is the basis of the traditional philosophy of alchemy, generally believed to be concerned with transmuting base elements into gold. However, this was only a partial truth behind "The Great Work", which was actually the search for the process to purify and elevate the soul.
The quest to transform ordinary materials into gold was an analogy- for developing a radiant, perfect spirit.
To grow past this stage of the Manipura chakra, we must overcome the self-absorbed ego & its insatiable desire for control.
After assimilating the wisdom gained from these lower chakras, we can continue on our path of spiritual ascension.
The next stage is the 4th Heart Chakra- Anahata
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