The heart chakra, also known as Anahata, is the center of love, compassion, & connection. When it begins to open, you’ll start experiencing subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) signs that your heart energy is expanding.
But here’s the thing most people don’t talk about: opening your heart chakra isn’t all butterflies and rainbows. It can be raw and deeply uncomfortable.
Here are 7 signs to look out for if your heart chakra is beginning to open.
1. You’re Feeling Emotions More Deeply Than Usual
You might find yourself crying at seemingly small things. Or if you’ve been suppressing your heart center you may feel the uncomfortable urge to cry more often than usual.
Physically, you might feel a tightness in the chest just before the emotion comes up. Sometimes a lump in your throat or heaviness in your chest can signal that your heart is processing old grief or releasing tension you’ve held onto for years.
This is your heart clearing space for more joy, love, and other emotions to flow more freely.
2. You’re Letting Go of Grudges
One of the strongest signs that the heart chakra is opening is your ability to forgive. Not because someone apologized or made it right, but because you no longer want to carry that weight.
There might be a physical release here too. This may result in a loosening of your shoulders and a feeling that your body is lighter.
3. Warmth & Fluttering in Your Chest Area
This is one of the most direct signs. You might feel warmth, pressure, tingling, fluttering, or even a gentle pulsing in the center of your chest.
This was how I knew my heart was opening. I had an experience with kundalini that forced my heart open. My chest fluttered and pulsed as it opened.
It was super scary when it was happening, but as I surrendered into the experience I felt feelings of bliss in my body as the energy radiated from my chest.
Break Into Greater Consciousness And Experience Awakening
It can feel like a soft ache and even be uncomfortable. This might also show up as random heart flutters or palpitations when you’re thinking about something emotional or having a moment of increased consciousness.
The best way to go about this is to surrender to it and relax the body. Allow the heart to open naturally.
4. You Feel Drawn to Connect With Others on a Deeper Level
Surface-level conversations may start to feel hollow. You’re craving soul connections. Maybe you find yourself opening up more vulnerably with close friends or being more present with strangers.
This might show up physically as a warmth in your chest when you truly connect with someone. Your body may lean in instinctively during conversations. You might notice goosebumps when you hear someone speak their truth, or a sudden rush of energy when you’re in a deeply heartfelt exchange.
5. You Start to See Yourself Through Softer Eyes
Self-compassion is a huge marker of heart chakra activation. If you’ve struggled with self criticism or perfectionism, an open heart chakra may help soften that way of thinking.
You may feel an internal sigh of relief as the constant loop of self-judgment begins to quiet. Your posture might relax. You may notice your breath becoming slower and deeper as you become self assured in who you are, as you are.
Even your reflection in the mirror might seem different. A little less harsh, more accepting.
6. You Feel More in Tune With Nature and Beauty
You might suddenly feel in awe of the trees. The sky. The breeze against your skin. An open heart chakra often brings an increased sensitivity to beauty and the feeling behind it.
Your eyes might water when you witness something that feels pure or sacred. These physical reactions are signs of an open or opening heart center.
7. You’re Feeling Both Vulnerable and Strong at the Same Time
This might be the most paradoxical part. Your heart feels open and exposed, but instead of feeling weak, you feel powerful in it.
Physically, this can show up as a grounded feeling in your chest and belly, even when you’re facing emotional situations.
Vulnerability becomes a strength. You’re learning that being heart-centered doesn’t mean being naive. It means being rooted in authenticity and courage.
WHAT STAGE OF YOUR SPIRITUAL JOURNEY ARE YOU IN?
WHAT STAGE OF YOUR SPIRITUAL JOURNEY ARE YOU IN?
Discover the 6 stages of awakening and find out where you are in your journey.
Overactive vs. Underactive Heart Chakra
Just like any energy center, the heart chakra can swing out of balance. Your heart can either become blocked or excessively open.
Underactive Heart Chakra
- Difficulty trusting others or opening up emotionally
- Feelings of isolation & disconnection
- A feeling of numbness
- Shallow breathing or tightness in the chest
- Inability to give or receive love
Overactive Heart Chakra
- Feeling emotionally overstimulated
- Becoming overly dependent on others for emotional validation
- Feeling drained after social interactions
- Taking on others’ pain as your own
What To Do When Your Heart Chakra Is Opening
First, give yourself permission to feel it all. Whether it’s tears or laughter, each is a sign that your heart is waking up.
The most important part of this is to not resist it. You’re job is to feel everything fully and surrender to the opening. All both negative and positive emotions to arise fully.
If you’re having a full blown heart chakra awakening or even a kundalini awakening, it may be beneficial to take a day or two off work to give yourself the time and privacy you may need to process this experience.
Surround yourself with people who respect your process. Set boundaries where needed. Drink more water. Rest when you’re tired.
Your heart knows the way. Trust it.
Hi, I’m Ryan. I’m a meditation teacher, spiritual seeker, and founder of nurtureyourspirit.org. I’m glad you’re here! I founded Nurture Your Spirit because of my love of meditation, spirituality, and spiritual awakening.
