What is a Experiential Chakra Psychology Training and Purification Retreat and what does it do?​

A n Experiential Chakra Psychology Training and Purification Retreat is a 5-day opportunity to delve into the Chakra Psychology system in an experiential format. Chakra theory has been present in Eastern Philosophy for a very long time. Only recently has it been developed in such a way as to be expressed within the psychological framework. Within this theory, Apana-Prana is a type of energy that builds up and invades the system, causing havoc in all areas - physical, mental and emotional. Through the use of Chakra sounds along with morning protocol and increased awareness of these 7 chakra energies, one can experience a calming and refining of the energetic and psychological system. 

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This build up occurs through painful memories, when we have our feelings hurt or have thoughts or actions which aren't in alignment with our highest self. It essentially builds from negative thinking and feeling states. As this stressful energy builds is brings on stronger the types of challenges we face in this life. Everyone has a certain pattern of challenges, some may be relational, others may experience difficult internal emotional states etc. Through the cleansing of the physical and subtle energy systems we can return to a state where these negative tendencies no longer take over; there is simply more room between action and response where the true self can rise to the occasion and choose its response to external stimuli. The goal is that the locus on control moves increasingly inwards. 

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What can I expect?​

We will have an introductory session which introduces the theory and answers any questions you may have. This is followed by 6 additional sessions, one for each chakra, the 6th and 7th chakra are discussed together in a single session. In each session you will learn about the chakra as a concept and related to a state of consciousness. You will learn how each chakra moves in a progressive way building on the previous one and how this is consistent with the established theories of development and hierarchy of needs in the psychological field. Each chakra has a motivation related to its need. As one move through and successfully meets the demands of this stage of life, the next stage opens which is qualitatively different from the previous. As Ken Wilber expresses, each new stage of consciousness will include but transcend the previous one.

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What is the Optional Lifestyle/Dietary Aspect of the Program?

There is a daily lifestyle aspect of the program that is recommended. Ideally one rises 2 hours before the sunrise, having time to drink plenty of water, have a bowel movement and take a shower before sunrise. If it is possible stepping outside without shoes and feeling the morning dew on the feet help with grounding. The dietary aspect of the program is below. 

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While different dietary and lifestyle protocols have long been documented in many indigenous cultures to address the issues an individual struggles with, this protocol was specifically developed by my teacher, Sri Shyamji Bhatnagar of The Chakra Institute. It carries many Ayurvedic principles but is designed specifically to work with the Chakra and Microchakra system,  which is the system Sri Shyamji has contributed to the overall Chakra Psychology.  

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The overall theme is a simple diet of grains and mung bean/lentil diet. There is nothing extreme like fasting, just simple eating simple meals without snacking in between. This allows the digestive system to not be overtaxed. Staying hydrated, cutting out caffeine, sugars, oils and any kind of intoxicant allows the whole system- body and mind, and opportunity to reset. If changing your eating pattern is not in your best interest, such as having your own wellness diet, any type of illness, a history of disordered eating etc then it is recommended that you do not alter your diet. This is optional. 

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Who teaches the classes?​

2-3 classes per day will be held. It is recommended to attend all of the classes. Galeet Farrow, MA, LPC will teach all classes unless otherwise noted. She is a licensed therapist, author, VP of the Chakra Institute and has been training with Sri Shyamji Bhatnagar for over a decade. She is committed to bringing you as authentic of an experience as possible. 

There will be 2-3 guest speaker/experiential classes. These are not taught by a licensed counselor and if credits were to be offered, there would not be eligible. Generally a sound practice class, a yoga class and a herbalism class are offered. The specific offering and presenter rotate. 

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What is recommended?​

It is recommended that you do not schedule a lot for the days of the workshop, allowing yourself the space and time necessary for the process. Quiet time with room to journal, walk, sing, draw etc is highly recommended. 

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What is the importance of sound?​

Sound is created through vibration which is the basis of life. All form is created in sound, thus the physical and energetic body responds to it.  The human voice creates the highest quality of sound, especially when offered by someone with sound sensitivity (this is different than musical sensitivity). I have been training for many years to offer this. My teacher, Sri Shyamji Bhatnagar creates the highest possible quality of sound (sooray akaasha) and advocated for each individual to develop their ability to produce sounds for their own development. 

 

What can I expect after the workshop?​

After the workshop I would expect a reduction in severity of symptoms, increased ability to focus, concentrate or meditate. One workshop is not going to end all problems. It has taken many years for challenges to develop and it will take some time to pull them apart. If you are not struggling with many emotional and mental barriers then you will likely increase a much greater ability to sit in stillness, meditation and silence. The quality of listening and truly hearing others will increase as the internal chatter and evaluative mind subsides. You may experience greater ability to follow healthy patterns in daily life with less resistance to the things you know you "should" be doing. It is possible you may feel a reduction of stress, anger or fear and an increased heart-centered approach to life. It depends on the specifics of your Chakra functioning and each person will have a unique effect.  It is recommended to attend seasonal workshops for at least 2x year.

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