Chakra is a Sanskrit word meaning wheel or disc, and in yoga and meditation is used to refer to the energy centers in our body. There are 7 Chakras running from the base of the spine to the top of the head and they are the wheels of energy where consciousness meets matter. They correspond to nerves and organs, as well as emotional, psychological and spiritual states of being, so it is very important to keep the energy flowing freely. Here is a summary of the 7 Chakras for beginners.
The Root Chakra is in the tailbone area, right at the base of the spine, encompassing the first three vertebrae, the bladder and the colon. It is the Chakra of our most basic needs, security and stability. When it is open we feel safe and secure but it is affected by survival issues such as worries about whether we have enough money or food.
This Chakra, located in the lower abdomen, is responsible for our expression, be it creative, sexual, or otherwise. It is also related to our ability to be open and accepting to others and new experiences, so if this area becomes blocked, life can become lonely and samey.
The Solar Plexus Chakra is located in the upper abdomen, from the navel to the breastbone. It is the source of our belief in ourselves, self-worth and self-esteem, alongside our ability to be and feel in control of our own lives.
Located at the center of our chest just above the heart, the Heart Chakra brings together the lower chakras of matter and the upper chakras of spirit. It acts as the bridge between the physical and the emotional or spiritual. Taking care of the first three (physical) chakras allows us to open the upper (spiritual) chakras better.
This chakra encompasses the area that includes our neck, jaw, mouth, tongue and various glands. It is, unsurprisingly, the area associated with communication. It is the source of our ability to express ourselves verbally as well as speak the truth. Keeping secrets from others and lying can affect this chakra whereas expressing how we feel rather than bottling things up inside keeps it flowing freely.
Also called the Brow Chakra, the Third Eye Chakra is located between our eyes. It is the center of our intuition. We all have a natural intuition but some people listen to it more than others, and those who heed their intuition are most in tune with their Third Eye Chakra. Opening it up helps to hone the intuition further.
Located at the crown of the head, this chakra is the point of connection with others, our higher selves and the divine. It is the center of the connection with our own spirituality. When it is wide open, the Crown Chakra can allow us to feel pure bliss and experience beauty and life on a higher level. Meditation can be particularly helpful if this chakra is blocked.
Many people may not have heard of the 7 chakras, outside of those regularly practicing yoga and meditation. But awareness of them has the potential to allow us to be more in tune with ourselves physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually as well as keeping us healthy in every area.
Are you in touch with your chakras?