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Writer's pictureYoga

Granthis: The Three Energetic Knots

Updated: Apr 10, 2023

The concept of Granthis, or "knots" in Sanskrit, origins from the ancient Indian system of spiritual practices and is mentioned in various Hindu texts, including the Upanishads and the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. These texts describe the Granthis as energy knots or psychic centers that can block the flow of prana, our life force energy, through the body.



What are The Granthis?


The three Granthis - Brahma Granthi, Vishnu Granthi, and Rudra Granthi - are located along the central channel, or Sushumna Nadi, which runs through the spine from the base of the spine to the crown of the head. The Granthis are said to be responsible for blocking the flow of energy and preventing the individual from experiencing their true nature or inner Self.


The Granthis are believed to be a result of past experiences, traumas, and negative emotions that create energetic blocks in the body. By working with these knots, one can release the blockages and allow the flow of energy to move freely, leading to spiritual awakening and enlightenment.


When these granthis are blocked, they can lead to physical, emotional, and spiritual imbalances. Through the practice of yoga, including asanas, pranayama, and meditation, the granthis can be gradually released, allowing the prana to flow freely and promoting a sense of overall well-being and balance in the body and mind. By cultivating awareness and mindfulness, one can become more attuned to the subtle energies of the body and work towards removing the energetic blocks that prevent the free flow of prana.







The Three Granthis

There are three main granthis, each located in a specific area of the body and associated with certain physical and emotional aspects.





1. Brahma Granthi


Brahma Granthi is located in the area of the Muladhara Chakra, which is the root chakra located at the base of the spine. It is associated with the element of earth, and represents the first stage of spiritual development and is is associated with issues related to survival, security, and stability.


Brahma Granthi is considered to be the most fundamental of the three granthis, as it represents the knot of ignorance and attachment that prevents us from realizing our true nature. It is associated with the ego, and the belief that we are separate from the rest of the universe.


To release Brahma Granthi, one must focus on developing awareness and understanding of the true nature of the self. This can be done through practices such as meditation, self-inquiry, and self-reflection.


Physical yoga practices such as asanas (postures) and pranayama (breathing techniques) can also help to release Brahma Granthi by opening up the energy channels and allowing prana to flow freely throughout the body.


It is important to note that the release of Brahma Granthi is a gradual process, and requires consistent practice and dedication. However, with time and patience, one can begin to experience a deeper connection to the self and the universe, and a greater sense of peace and fulfillment in life.





2. Vishnu Granthi


Vishnu Granthi is located in the heart region and is associated with the Anahata chakra and is associated with issues related to love, relationships, and emotional well-being.


In yogic philosophy, Vishnu Granthi represents the second stage of the spiritual journey, where the individual begins to recognize the interconnectedness of all beings and experiences a sense of unconditional love and compassion. However, it can also be a source of attachment and desire, which can lead to a sense of bondage and suffering.


When the Vishnu Granthi is blocked or constricted, it can result in emotional and psychological issues such as anxiety, fear, and a sense of being unloved or unlovable. It may also manifest as physical symptoms such as heart disease, high blood pressure, or respiratory issues.


To release the Vishnu Granthi and promote the flow of energy, various yogic practices can be helpful, including pranayama, asana, and meditation. Heart-opening poses such as backbends can be particularly beneficial in opening the Anahata chakra and releasing blockages in the Vishnu Granthi.


Through regular practice and self-awareness, individuals can begin to cultivate a sense of love and compassion towards themselves and others, and move towards a state of greater inner peace and fulfillment.





3. Rudra Granthi


Rudra Granthi isocated in the forehead at the Ajna chakra, this granthi is associated with issues related to intuition, wisdom, and spiritual growth and associated with the element fire.


Rudra Granthi is said to represent the second stage of spiritual evolution, where the focus shifts from physical needs and desires to the development of inner power and self-control. It is also associated with the activation of the manipura chakra, which is believed to be responsible for the transformation of negative emotions such as anger, jealousy, and hatred into positive qualities such as courage, confidence, and willpower.


The Rudra Granthi is believed to be associated with the deity Rudra, who is associated with destruction and transformation in Hindu mythology. When this Granthi is released through the practice of yoga, it is said to bring about a powerful transformative energy that can help the practitioner overcome their fears and limitations and awaken their true potential.


Some common practices for releasing the Rudra Granthi include pranayama (breathing techniques), asanas (yoga postures), and meditation. These practices help to activate the manipura chakra and increase the flow of prana in the body, which can help to release any blockages and promote overall health and wellbeing.


It is important to approach these practices with caution and under the guidance of an experienced teacher, as incorrect practice or excessive force can lead to injury or discomfort.




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