The Mysterious Pineal Gland
Seat of the Human Soul - Keep the Pineal Healthy & Maintain Youth
Jan 9, 2009
The size of a pea, the Pineal Gland is shaped like a small pine cone and located directly behind the eyes in a tiny cave at the centre of the brain. As the last endocrine gland discovered, it had the reputation of being a mystery gland shrouded in myth, superstition and metaphysical theories.
Supernatural Powers
Philosophers and Spiritual Adepts have long contemplated the function of the Pineal. For example, the Ancient Greeks believed it to be our connection to the realms of thought and French philosopher Renee Descartes referred to it as the seat of the human soul. Most mystical traditions and esoteric schools have known this area to be the connecting link between the physical and spiritual worlds and consider it a powerful source of ethereal energy initiating supernatural powers. Thus, the hormones released by this gland play a part in the stimulation of the higher-mind and the development of intellectual pursuits. Toxins in this gland indicate the spirit is weak due to lack of will combined with an invasion of the psyche.
Function
On a physiological level, the Pineal is activated by light, and controls the various biorhythms of the body through the secretion of the hormone melatonin. It is integral to the life cycle and sends signals to the reproductive system set a child’s birth in motion. Working in harmony with the Hypothalamus Gland it directs the body's thirst, hunger, sexual desire and biological clock which determines our aging process. Edgar Cayce said, ‘Keep the pineal gland operating and you won't grow old – you will always be young!’
Light Deprivation and Melatonin
An imbalance of melatonin interferes with the body’s circadian rhythms and results in light deprivation disorders, which present in depression, oversleeping, weight gain, fatigue and sadness. Our lifestyles can contribute in a reduction of melatonin. Most of us spend the majority of our day working indoors with little natural light, rush home to spend more time indoors to read, watch television, use the computer, or listen to music. Whilst these are great activities in relaxation they can deprive us of enough light to assist healthy melatonin levels. Even when we do get out in the sun we wear dark sunglasses to protect us from harmful UV light, but in doing so, we block the beneficial rays from the sun.
The following symptoms indicate light deprivation :
- Carbohydrate cravings
- Depressed
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
- Low energy
- Reduced libido
- Social withdrawal
- Trouble sleeping
- Weight gain
Other Functions
As with the Hypothalamus, the Pineal Gland is part of the communication centre and combine visual, auditory, speech and learning approaches. When heightened, many of the higher intellectual capabilities manifest themselves. Imbalanced function can lead to impairments in dyslexia, stuttering, forgetfulness and inability to think clearly.
Other Pineal secretions stimulate activity in the adrenal glands. Here it plays an essential role in sodium re-absorption and potassium elimination. These secretions also help the adrenals control fear. In addition, the Pineal takes up excess iodine as a backup for the Thyroid.
Symptoms of an Under-active Pineal
Environmental stresses affect Pineal function, affecting overall body alertness, temperature levels, and hormone operation. Stresses that affect Pineal function include unusual light and dark rhythms, radiation, magnetic fields, nutritional imbalances, temperature swings, high altitude, and overall daily stress patterns. Symptoms present in the following:
- Menstrual irregularities
- Hypochondria
- Mood swings
- Excess worry
- Irrational fear
- Seasonal affective syndrome
- Headaches
- Irregular sleeping
- Right eye
- Paranoia or fanaticism
- Hypertension
- Rpilepsy
- Sodium or potassium imbalance
- Nightmares/vivid dreams
- Dyslexia
- Stuttering
- Inability to think clearly or be in present moment
Natural Corrective Measures
- Stress management techniques
- Daily doses of natural light
- Massage the third eye area (located in the slight indent between the eyes on the forehead. Massage upward and outward in a half-inch radius for 30 seconds.)
- Foods high in potassium
- Regular breaks from computers, TV’s, artificial lighting etc
- Massage pressure points in feet (pad area of the big toes)
- Massage pressure points in hands (pad area of thumbs)
Maintaining balance of the Pineal Gland assists your body on all levels – both physiologically & spiritually. Nurture and care for this marvelous gland and tap into your higher mind and keep your body’s functions running smoothly.
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