The 7 Chakras – A Beginners Guide To Your Energy System

What on Earth is a Chakra?

In many spiritual and healing disciplines, and in the world of complementary medicine the word Chakra pops up quite a bit. That’s fine if you know its meaning; not so great, and I must say pretty confusing, if you don’t. Here’s our simple summary of the 7 Chakras that covers what a Chakra is, and what the Chakra System is all about.

The 7 Chakras are the energy centres in our body in which energy flows through.

The word ‘chakra’ is derived from the sanskrit word meaning ‘wheel’. Literally translated from the Hindi it means ‘Wheel of spinning Energy’. A chakra is like a whirling, vortex-like, powerhouse of energy. Within our bodies, you have seven of these major energy centres and many more minor ones. Deepak Chopra says that each of the seven chakras are governed by spiritual laws, principles of consciousness that we can use to cultivate greater harmony, happiness, and wellbeing in our lives and in the world.

You can think of chakras as invisible, rechargeable batteries.

They are charged and recharged through contact with the stream of cosmic energy in the atmosphere in much the same way that your home is connected to a central power source within a city – the only difference is that this cosmic energy source is free.

Imagine this, a vertical power current rather like a fluorescent tube that runs up and down the spine, from the top of the head to the base of the spine. Think of this as your main source of energy. The seven major chakras are in the centre of the body and are aligned with this vertical “power line. ”

Chakras connect your spiritual bodies to your physical one.

They regulate the flow of energy throughout the electrical network (meridians) that runs through the physical body. The body’s electrical system resembles the wiring in a house. It allows electrical current to be sent to every part, and it is ready for use when needed.

Sometimes chakras become blocked because of stress, emotional or physical problems. If the body’s ‘energy system’ can not flow freely it is likely that problems will occur. The consequence of irregular energy flow may result in physical illness and discomfort or a sense of being mentally and emotionally out of balance.

 

This image shows where the main chakras in are located in your body. You can read a brief, yet full explanation for each chakra below.

Chakra 7 – The Crown

The Crown Chakra, also know as the Sahastrara Chakra, is the seventh chakra, located at the top of your head. It’s associated with the color violet and is responsible for connecting us with the divine energy of the universe.

It is associated with the cerebral cortex, central nervous system and the pituitary gland. It is concerned with information, understanding, acceptance and bliss. It is said to be your own place of connection to God, the Chakra of Divine purpose and personal destiny.

A balanced Crown Chakra allows us to live in the present moment, feel a sense of purpose and spiritual connection, and experience a deep sense of peace.

But, what about a blocked Crown Chakra? Here are some signs to watch out for:

1. Physical symptoms: headaches, migraines, dizziness, and sensitivity to light and sound.
2. Emotional symptoms: feeling disconnected, depressed, anxious, and struggling to find meaning in life.
3. Mental symptoms: difficulty concentrating, brain fog, and lack of creativity.
4. Spiritual symptoms: feeling disconnected from a higher power, struggling to meditate, and feeling like you’re not living up to your spiritual potential.

So, how can you heal, strengthen and balance your Crown Chakra?

Well, one way is through yoga. The Tree Pose and Headstand are great for opening up the Crown Chakra.

In terms of essential oils, frankincense and lavender can be used to promote spiritual healing and relaxation.

There are also some energy medicine practices that can help. Reiki and acupuncture are great ways to balance your chakras and promote overall energy flow.

Chakra 6 – The Third Eye (or Ajna Chakra)

Its colour is Indigo (a combination of red and blue). It is located at the centre of your forehead at eye level or slightly above. This Chakra is used to question the spiritual nature of our life. It is responsible for our psychic abilities.

It is the Chakra of question, perception and knowing. It is concerned with inner vision, intuition and wisdom. Your dreams for this life and recollections of other lifetimes are held in this Chakra. Blockage may manifest as problems like lack of foresight, mental rigidity, ‘selective’ memory and depression.

A balanced Third Eye Chakra allows for heightened intuition, clarity of thoughts and perception. But, how do we know if it’s blocked?

Here are some symptoms to keep an eye out for:

1. Physical symptoms may include headaches, eye pain, sinusitis, insomnia, and vision problems.
2. Emotional symptoms may include a lack of clarity, confusion, and depression.
3. Mental symptoms may include feeling stuck, experiencing a creative block, and difficulty with decision making.
4. Spiritual symptoms may include feeling disconnected from your intuition and feeling ungrounded in your spiritual practice.

So, what can we do to heal, balance and strengthen the Third Eye Chakra?

Yoga poses such as Child’s Pose, Downward Dog, and Head to Knee Pose can help balance the Third Eye Chakra.

Essential oils such as frankincense and sandalwood can be used in aromatherapy to promote clarity and calmness.

Meditation is another powerful tool to strengthen the Third Eye Chakra. You can try a visualization where you imagine a bright indigo light in the middle of your forehead, expanding and clearing any blockages.

Crystals like lapis lazuli, amethyst, and clear quartz can be used to balance and stimulate the Third Eye Chakra.

Chakra 5. The Throat (Vishuddha Chakra)

The throat chakra is the fifth chakra, located in the neck area around the throat. It’s associated with the color blue or turquoise and is responsible for our ability to communicate openly and honestly with others. It is the Chakra of communication, creativity, self-expression and judgement. It is associated with your Neck, shoulders, arms, hands, thyroid and parathyroid glands. It is concerned with the senses of inner and outer hearing, the synthesising of ideas, healing, transformation and purification.

A balanced throat chakra allows for clear communication, creativity, and self-expression. But how do we know if our throat chakra is blocked? Blockage can show up as creative blocks, dishonesty or general problems in communicating ones needs to others.

Look out for these symptoms:

1. Physical symptoms: sore throat, thyroid issues, dental problems, and ear infections.
2. Emotional symptoms: difficulty expressing oneself, feeling like your voice isn’t heard, and feeling anxious in social situations.
3. Mental symptoms: inability to speak up for oneself, difficulty with public speaking, and feelings of confusion.
4. Spiritual symptoms: feeling disconnected from your inner truth and purpose, and lack of inspiration.

So, how can we balance and strengthen our throat chakra?

One way is through yoga poses such as the Fish Pose and Bridge Pose. These poses help open up the throat area and stimulate the energy flow.

In terms of essential oils, peppermint and eucalyptus help to heal and open up the throat chakra.

Meditation is also a great way to connect with your inner truth and strengthen your throat chakra. Try meditating while visualizing a bright blue light emanating from your throat.

Sound therapy is another effective way to balance the throat chakra. Listening to music, singing, chanting or using crystal singing bowls can be helpful.

Chakra 4 – The Heart (Anahata Chakra)

Its colour is green and it is located within your heart. It is the centre of love, compassion, harmony, emotional healing and peace. In certain cultures it is thought of as the house of the soul. This Chakra is associated with your lungs, heart, arms hands and thymus gland.

We fall in love through our heart Chakra, then that feeling of unconditional love moves to the emotional centre commonly known as the solar plexus. After that it moves into the sexual centre or Base Chakra where strong feelings of attraction can be released. When these energies move into the Base Chakra we may have the desire to marry and settle down.

A balanced Heart Chakra allows us to experience deep connections with others, feel empathy, and love ourselves. But, what happens when it’s blocked? Blockage can show itself as immune system, lung and heart problems, or manifest as inhumanity, lack of compassion or unprincipled behaviour.

Here are some symptoms:

1. Physical symptoms may include heart palpitations, difficulty breathing, chest pain, and high blood pressure.
2. Emotional symptoms may include feeling disconnected, lack of empathy, anger, and jealousy.
3. Mental symptoms may include feeling stuck, inability to form healthy relationships, and suspicious of others.
4. Spiritual symptoms may include a lack of direction or faith, feeling a disconnection from the divine and the world around us.

So, how can we balance and strengthen the Heart Chakra?

Yoga poses, such as Camel Pose and Cobra Pose can help open up the chest and promote energy flow.

Essential oils such as rose and bergamot can be used in aromatherapy to promote emotional healing and create a sense of tranquility.

Meditation is also powerful in opening up the heart chakra. Try focusing on feelings of self-love and compassion towards others. Imagine a glowing green light emanating from your chest, expanding with every breath.

Sound therapy is another way to balance the Heart Chakra. Listen to calming, soothing music, or try chanting the mantra “Yam” to promote love and harmony.

Chakra 3 – The Solar Plexus (Manipura Chakra)

Its colour is yellow and it is located a few inches above the navel in the solar plexus area. This chakra is concerned with your digestive system, muscles, pancreas and adrenals. It is the seat of your emotional life and is responsible for our sense of personal power, self-esteem, and confidence. Your sensitivity, ambition and ability to achieve are stored here. Feelings like laughter, joy and anger are associated with this centre.

But, what happens when it’s blocked? Blockage may manifest as anger, frustration, lack of direction, blaming others or a sense of powerlessness and victimisation.

Here are some symptoms to look out for:

1. Physical symptoms may include digestive issues, stomach ulcers, and weight gain.
2. Emotional symptoms may include low self-esteem, lack of confidence, and feeling powerless.
3. Mental symptoms may include feeling indecisive, inability to take action, and fears related to success.
4. Spiritual symptoms may include feeling disconnected from your personal power, lack of motivation and ambition.

So, how can we balance and strengthen the Solar Plexus Chakra?

Yoga poses are a great way to alleviate blockages in the Solar Plexus Chakra. Boat Pose and Warrior I can help increase our sense of power, strength, and assertiveness.

Essential oils such as ginger and lemon can promote inner strength and personal empowerment.

Meditation can also be a powerful tool in balancing the Solar Plexus Chakra. Visualize a golden yellow light emanating from your solar plexus, filling your entire body, and radiating outwards.

Sound therapy is another way to balance the Solar Plexus Chakra. Listen to uplifting music or try chanting the mantra “Ram,” which is associated with personal power.

Chakra 2 – The Sacral (Svadhishthana Chakra)

Its colour is orange and it is located between the base of your spine and your navel. It is associated with your lower abdomen, kidneys, bladder, circulatory system and your reproductive organs and glands. It is concerned with creativity, sexuality, and emotional balance. This chakra represents desire, pleasure, sexuality, procreation and creativity.

A balanced Sacral Chakra allows us to express ourselves creatively, have healthy sexual relationships, and experience emotional fulfillment. But, what happens when it’s blocked? Blockage may show up as emotional problems, compulsive or obsessive behaviour and sexual guilt.

Here’s what to look out for:

1. Physical symptoms may include lower back pain, urinary tract infections, and reproductive health issues.
2. Emotional symptoms may include guilt or shame surrounding your sexuality, lack of creativity, and difficulty expressing emotions.
3. Mental symptoms may include feeling uninspired, lack of passion, and difficulty moving forward with projects or ideas.
4. Spiritual symptoms may include feeling disconnected from the creative source, feeling like you have to suppress your true self, and feeling unable to access your intuition.

So, how can we balance and strengthen the Sacral Chakra?

Yoga poses such as Pigeon Pose and Cobra Pose can help open up the hips and lower back, promoting energy flow.

Essential oils such as ylang-ylang and jasmine can be used in aromatherapy to promote a sense of sensuality and creativity.

Meditation is another tool that can help balance the Sacral Chakra. Place your hands on your lower abdomen as you breathe deeply and focus on the color orange.

Crystals and gemstones associated with healing the Sacral Chakra include carnelian, orange calcite, and moonstone. These stones can help relieve blockages and stimulate creative energy.

Chakra 1. The Root or Base (Muladhara Chakra)

Its colour is red and it is located at the perineum. It is the Chakra closest to the earth. It is responsible for our sense of stability. Its function is concerned with earthly grounding and physical survival. This Chakra is associated with your legs, feet, bones, large intestine and adrenal glands. It controls your fight or flight response.

A healthy root chakra allows for feelings of safety and security, and a strong connection to the earth. Someone with a healthy root chakra would feel confident in their ability to provide for themselves and their basic needs.

But what happens when the root chakra is blocked? Blockage may manifest as paranoia, fear, procrastination and defensiveness. Look out for these symptoms:

1. Physical symptoms: lower back pain, constipation, and problems with the hips, legs, and feet.
2. Emotional symptoms: feeling anxious or fearful, and having trouble trusting others.
3. Mental symptoms: feeling scattered or unfocused, and difficulty making decisions.
4. Spiritual symptoms: feeling disconnected from the earth and lacking a sense of purpose.

So, how can we balance and strengthen the root chakra?

One way is through yoga poses such as the Tree Pose and the Warrior Pose. These poses help to ground and stabilize the body.

In terms of essential oils, patchouli and cedarwood are good choices for healing and balancing the root chakra.

Crystals and gemstones associated with healing the Root Chakra include red jasper, haematite and garnet.

I find that meditation or visualization is particularly helpful. Here’s an example you could practice;

Imagine a bright red light at the base of your spine, growing brighter and stronger with each breath. Visualize this light going deep into the ground like tree roots, grounding you to the earth and bringing a sense of stability and strength. AS you inhale, breath into the earth and into the red roots. As you exhale, imagine  earth energy coming up into your base chakra. Repeat this for 5 to 10 minutes 2 or 3 times a day.

To sum up:

Chakras are energy centers in our body that regulate the flow of energy throughout our physical and spiritual bodies. Each chakra is important for our physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual wellbeing. A healthy chakra system is essential for maintaining overall health and wellness as it ensures that our body’s energy flows freely, preventing physical and emotional imbalances.

When our chakras are balanced and flowing freely, we feel grounded, centered, and connected to ourselves and others. However, when our chakras are blocked or out of balance, we may experience physical symptoms, emotional issues, and spiritual disconnect.

There are many different practices and techniques that can help cleanse, balance, and heal our chakras. These include yoga, meditation, essential oils, crystals, and sound therapy. By tuning into our bodies and paying attention to any signs of imbalance, we can begin to explore what works best for us and create a more balanced and harmonious life.

We would love to get your feedback and  to hear what you think?

Are you new  to the concepts of chakras and auras?  Are you familiar with the idea of human energy centres and wanted to know a little more? Has this article been useful to you? Do you have any questions about chakras for us? We are happy to answer. Please put your  comments in the section below.

Have you participated in a Chakra Healing journey? If your Chakra has been blocked what has helped you get the energy flowing again? We would love to hear your tips and stories so please join the conversation. As always, your interaction with our posts creates a reservoir of wisdom for all our readers to benefit from so please share your thoughts, stories and questions in the comments box below and remember to tweet, like and share this post with your friends  ~ thanks, its appreciated.

 

Additional Resources

• Chakra Balancing- How To Charge Up Your Energy Body Batteries
• Chakra Clearing – An Essential Guide to Awakening, Balancing, and Healing
• ChakrasEverything You’ve Ever Wanted To Know About Distant Energy Healing And Your Chakras