Axé
In the context of the Umbanda tradition, Axé is a term used to describe the life force or spiritual energy that is present in all things. It is a fundamental concept that underlies many of the practices and beliefs of Umbanda.
Axé is often referred to as the power of creation and is believed to flow through all living beings and objects, including plants, animals, and even inanimate objects. It is considered to be a source of power and vitality that can be channeled and used for healing, protection, and spiritual growth.
In Umbanda, practitioners often use ritual objects and symbols to channel Axé, such as candles, herbs, and crystals. They also use prayers, songs and invocations to connect with the spiritual energy and to request its assistance.
Overall, the concept of Axé represents the belief in a universal life force that is present in everything, and the recognition of its power and potential to facilitate spiritual growth and healing.
Prana, Chi, Kundalini…
The concept of Axé in the Umbanda tradition is similar to other concepts of life force or spiritual energy found in other traditions, such as prana, chi, or kundalini.
In Hinduism, the concept of prana refers to the vital life force or energy that permeates everything in the universe. It is believed to flow through the body via energy channels known as nadis and is associated with breath and the movement of air in the body.
In Chinese culture, the concept of chi (also known as qi) refers to the vital energy that is present in all living things. It is associated with the flow of energy along meridians in the body and is believed to be essential for maintaining health and balance.
Kundalini, on the other hand, is a concept found in Hindu and Sikh traditions that refers to the latent spiritual energy that lies at the base of the spine. It is believed that through certain practices such as yoga or meditation, this energy can be awakened and guided up the spine, leading to spiritual awakening and enlightenment.
Overall, while these concepts may have different names and specific associations in different traditions, they share a fundamental belief in the presence of a universal life force or spiritual energy that can be channeled and utilized for spiritual growth and healing.
Part of our Umbanda works is dedicated towards helping you discover and getting to know your personal Axé – to reconnect with the individual way, that this life force expresses through you.