This Orthodox practice of heart-meditation [the Eastern contemplative prayer of the heart] is remarkably close to other traditions from other places and times. In seventeenth century Europe, a devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus developed (and continues to this day), where the one who prays holds the image of Jesus' physical heart in mind, pouring out one's love to him, and also receiving his love. It is also similar to the chakra systems of both Hindu and Chinese Taoist meditation, whereby one opens the heart chakra in order to experience the energy (or prana chi) of love that is present in all of life.
— Brian C. Taylor, Becoming Christ