According to Hindu philosophy, the creation of the universe begins when Shakti, the primordial feminine energy arises out of Shiva, the masculine ground of cosmic consciousness. Their interplay represents the process of creation, preservation, and destruction that characterizes the universe and the balancing forces of Mother Nature. Daytime, for instance, is associated with active, masculine energy, symbolized by the sun, while nighttime is associated with receptive, feminine energy, symbolized by the moon. The masculine energy of the land, meanwhile, provides a solid foundation for the feminine energy of the sea which brings movement, depth, and adaptability, creating a dynamic, ever-evolving landscape.
This cosmic balance is also reflected in our own physical and energetic bodies. The lower chakras, which are focused on action, accomplishment, and individuality and associated with the physical body, tend to be more masculine in nature. The upper chakras, meanwhile, are focused on intuition, creativity, and empathy as well as our divine connection and tend to be more feminine in nature.
Finding an inner balance between our upper and lower chakras or between the feminine and masculine polarities of being and doing, giving and receiving, feeling and thinking, and collaboration and assertion may seem like a daunting task until we turn our attention to the harmonizing wisdom of the central chakra - the heart. Unlike the human ego, which is dualistic by nature, the heart embodies wholeness. As we place our attention on this unifying chakra, either during meditation or by practicing rhythmic breathing into the heart space, we discover a more balanced expression of our own unique yin and yang composition.
Shiva and Shakti are often depicted in a state of cosmic dance, signifying the continuous cycle of creation and the interconnectedness of all aspects of existence. The dance of Shiva is characterized by vigorous movements, symbolizing the eternal cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction while Shakti’s movements are more gentle, graceful, and fluid, representing the nurturing and creative aspects of our feminine energy. We too, have our own unique dance to share with the world. When we allow these energies to merge and flow in our own creative expressions, whether through dancing, painting, or singing, we integrate our more receptive, feminine source of intuitive inspiration with the masculine drive required to bring our ideas to life.
Finding our own inner rhythm is a fluid and continuous process, requiring us to so trust our heart’s wisdom and adjust our steps as we go. Above all else, we must remember to be gentle and tender with ourselves, knowing that every effort to create inner harmony will result in greater emotional and mental resilience, inner peace, and a deeper connection with ourselves and others.