CD: OSHO Chakra Sounds Meditation by Karunesh

This CD is a very practical meditation aide that can be used just to enjoy the gentle and relaxing musical sounds or, preferably, to enable one to be replenished by a full contemplation on the seven major chakras. To get the most out of this CD experience it is advisable to read the cover notes that come with the CD. There are simple and clear instructions about how connect to the energies of the chakras. There are three stages involved in this hour-long meditation. The first stage involves 45 minutes of exercises with breathing, the second is whirling, and the third is lying down with closed eyes. Alas, the cover notes are a little misleading as only two stages are mentioned but on a closer read it is possible to get the idea what is included. The music itself has been carefully designed to relate to the seven chakras. The music changes as each chakra leads on to the next. The whole movement of music upward and downward is repeated three times. It is also advised that a visualisation take place at the same time, whatever that may bring about, whether it be colours, patterns or scenes of nature. The instructions then advise lying in silence for 15 minutes to integrate the experience. I would never recommend any CD without trying it out and this one does pass the test. Osho’s material has a flavour that is not to everyone’s taste but I do believe that CDs such as this work because the preparatory work has been done. It is easy to follow where the music takes you as there is a clearly noticeable progression. Anyway, if such a movement cannot be picked up the advice is to imagine such a progression. It may not work for everyone but it works for me. If you want a whole chakra-based meditative experience then this CD can be of real help.

Osho Chakra Sounds Meditation CD uses toning notes to work with the chakras. Specific notes are thought to resonate with each chakra and by toning (singing) and focusing on each one in turn it may help to work release blockages so the chakras can open and the energy flows more freely again. Following the pre-recorded toning and music on the CD (or improvising around it) the meditator works from the root chakra up to the crown chakra and then down to the root again, 3 times, with a short space in between. The meditation finishes with 15 minutes of silence to witness what arises within as a result of the toning. I started toning and felt notes resonating in some of the chakras – those that I didn’t feel I perceived were more blocked. This hour long CD may be suited to a more experienced meditator or ‘toner’ which I thought I was bordering on, but I had to think again when my resistance to the time became apparent. At this first hurdle, a humbling challenge which somewhat gleefully demonstrated how there is always room for more growth, my monkey-mind decided that toning whilst doing housework might be a compromise. However, I soon realised my concentration was not fully focused! Already, I was learning. Focusing on the CD alone, each time reminding myself to stay in the moment, enjoy the journey and not to focus on the destination, I do get a little further!