The anahata chakra, or heart chakra, is the home of the whispers of our heart—the subtle vibrations of anahata, “unstruck sound.” This chakra governs our ability to feel all emotions, from joy to sorrow, and to extend love, support, and compassion not only to others but also to ourselves. Shari Friedrichsen explains what happens when this fourth-chakra area is out of balance, and she recommends practices to balance and strengthen it, so that we can connect more fully with ourselves and with others.