Chakras are a part of the Indian tradition and date back to at least 2500 BC. The earliest mention of them can be found in the Vedas, an ancient Indian collection of sacred texts. In subsequent years, various other Eastern traditions—including Buddhism, Taoism, and yoga—also began to discuss and describe the subtle body through chakras.

The number of chakras in the human body is a topic of debate among spiritualists and energy healers. Most say there are seven main chakras in the body, while others claim there are more or less depending on the person's needs. They are located along the spine, from the base of the spine to the top of the head. They can be considered the mediators of life force energy.

Many traditions and cultures believe in an unexplained force which gives life to all living things. Some names for this life force energy are known as chi, mana, or the holy spirit, among many other names. Sometimes this energy is simply called the universe, or a higher power. Vedic literature refers to this as prana. The chakras can be thought of as a bridge between this unseen force and the world of matter and physical existence.

Learning about each chakra helps us examine how activities and states of mind can either support or hinder a healthy and harmonious life. We harness and regain our energy through activities such as eating, breathing, relaxing, and activities such as meditation and spending time in nature. We lose our energy through basic everyday living, but all the more so through conditions such as anger, stress, and other negative emotions.

The word “chakra” comes from the Sanskrit word meaning “wheel” or “disk.” We can think of them as a nexus between physical, spiritual, mental and emotional energy. They are seen as swirling vortexes where spiritual energy is harnessed and dispersed throughout our body. This is our connection to the divine and our life force energy.

The spinning wheels of the chakras gather and transform prana into physical energy. Each chakra is associated with a specific part of the body or mind. Once prana is harnessed, it flows through the body and is assimilated into the physical organs through channels or pathways called nadis.

It is said that things such as fear or grief can cause what we call a blockage in the nadis, causing an imbalance in the flow of energy. This can be imagined as similar to a blood clot in the bloodstream. While a blockage doesn't necessarily shut down complete flow through the body, it can still impede our health. The same goes for the chakras. When the energy can flow freely, it helps us to feel healthy and empowered.

Chakras are the energy centers in our bodies through which we receive, process and transmit prana. When they are balanced and open, we feel healthy, happy and connected to our Higher Selves and the Universe.

They are connected with our emotional and physical well-being. They give us a basic understanding of how emotions can affect our physical health, and vice versa. Each chakra is associated with specific body organs and functions. The first three lower chakras relate to our basic survival needs; the next three relate to our emotional needs; and the seventh relates to our spiritual development.

Learning about the chakras can help us to understand our own energy systems better and how to keep them balanced. Here is a brief guide to understanding the chakra points, colors and their corresponding chakra:

Muladhara is the root chakra, located at the base of the spine. As its name implies, it is our root and our foundation. It is associated with the color red and is responsible for grounding us in our physical body and providing a sense of security.

Maslow's hierarchy of needs reveals and identifies five levels of basic needs that motivate people. It can be helpful in identifying pain points associated within the root chakra. With this information, we can work consciously towards creating a safe and stable foundation for ourselves to build from.

Imbalance of this chakra can cause anxiety, fear and an inability to feel safe in the world. The root chakra is our connection to the earth, through which we are able to survive. If we are not able to feel safe on this earth and in our bodies, we cannot build a strong sense of self and develop in love and relationships. We will not reach our full potential as human beings.

When this chakra is balanced, we feel stable and secure, both physically and emotionally. We are able to connect with our physical surroundings and experience life fully in the present moment.

The sacral chakra is located in the lower abdomen, just below the navel. This chakra is associated with creativity, pleasure, and sexuality. The color associated with the sacral chakra is orange.

In a world where we are constantly inundated with images and messages telling us to give in to our every desire, it's easy to forget the difference between pleasure and joy. Pleasure is fleeting and dependent on external factors, while joy is more enduring and internal. It is important to enjoy the things we like, but also to be aware of the dangers of overindulgence.

Balancing pleasure and restraint is a key component to a healthy and joyful life.

Have you ever felt a sense of stagnation? Or maybe you’ve been putting off beginning that project you’re passionate about. A blocked or unbalanced sacral chakra could be the root cause. You may also have difficulty taking care of yourself and your needs.

When the sacral chakra is open, you will feel creative and passionate about life. We are more likely to be productive and resilient, finding that joy is possible even in the midst of challenge and adversity.

The solar plexus chakra is located just above the navel. It is associated with personal power, self-esteem and confidence. The color associated with the solar plexus is the color yellow.

When this channel is blocked, you may feel insecure or powerless. There's a strong relationship between the level of our personal power, and our ability to manifest the desires and joys of the sacral chakra.

It is related to the digestive system, and it governs feelings of self-worth and personal power. When this chakra is balanced, you will feel confident and in control of your life. You will be able to take action and make decisions to fulfil your needs and desires.

Located in the center of the chest, the heart chakra is associated with love, compassion, and peace. The heart chakra is represented by the color green.

When this chakra is out of balance, we may become hypersensitive to the feelings and needs of others. We may become so focused on taking care of others that we forget to take care of ourselves, or we may become more preoccupied with our own well-being to create a healthy sense of connectivity with others. This can lead us to experience feelings of loneliness or isolation.

Narcissists and empaths are two personality types that may find it beneficial to learn more about the heart chakra. Narcissists tend to focus excessively on their own needs, while empaths often focus on others before themselves, depriving themselves of the love they deserve.

When the heart is open and balanced, we feel connected to others and ourselves. We are able to give and receive love freely, and we feel compassion for ourselves and others.

The throat chakra is located in the throat and is responsible for communication, self-expression, and authentic voice. It is associated with the color blue.

Verbal and nonverbal expression are fundamental in regards to the throat chakra. Verbal communication includes spoken words, while nonverbal communication includes art, music, dance, and other creative outlets. In order to have successful communication and a healthy throat chakra, it is helpful to understand the difference between introvert and extrovert characteristics.

If your throat chakra is imbalanced, it may be difficult to distinguish when it's better to speak and when it's better to listen. Some may err on the side of speaking more than they listen, missing the opportunity to gain valuable insights and perspectives. Others may feel unheard or disconnected from their authentic voice. One may even find it hard to express the needs and desires of the root or sacral chakra.

When this chakra is balanced, we are free to express ourselves clearly and freely. We can also express ourselves authentically, without judgement or inhibition. A balanced Throat Chakra allows us to connect with others through communication, creating meaningful relationships.

This chakra is the sixth chakra, associated with intuition, clarity of thought, and spiritual insight. The Ajna chakra is located between the eyebrows and is represented by the color indigo.

When it comes to having a well-balanced life, it is important to have both intellect and intuition. Intellect helps us understand the world around us and make logical decisions, while intuition allows us to tap into our inner wisdom and guidance. Both are necessary for a happy and successful life.

When this chakra is blocked, it can lead to confusion, indecision, and anxiety. Another aspect can be rigid or dogmatic thinking which can inhibit us from being receptive to new ideas and solutions.

When the third eye chakra flows freely, we are able to see clearly and make wise decisions. We trust our intuition and have a strong connection to our inner knowing. We are open to new ideas and are able to think creatively. We are confident in our abilities and feel a sense of purpose in our lives.

Located at the top of the head, the crown chakra is associated with the color violet. It is linked to spirituality, enlightenment and connection to the divine.

In our fast-paced, constantly connected world, it's easy to remain focused on our own lives and problems that we forget there is a bigger picture. But what if there was a way to connect with the universe and tap into a greater consciousness? Our true selves are not our ego-selves, but our cosmic selves. Our cosmic selves are one with the universe. When we connect with our cosmic selves, we connect with the source of all life.

When it is out of balance, we may feel disconnected from our spiritual side or lost in our own thoughts and emotions. We may feel confused or uncertain about our life purpose. We may find it difficult to meditate or connect with our higher selves.

When the crown chakra is in balance, we experience a sense of connection to something larger than ourselves. There is a sense of oneness and unity with all that is. There is a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of all things. We feel inspired and motivated to live our lives in accordance with our highest values. There is peace, bliss, and joy.

It is important to remember that the seven chakras are each connected to different areas of our lives. When one chakra is not free-flowing, it can have a ripple effect on the others. By taking the time to meditate and focus on each chakra, we can help keep our energy in alignment and support our general well-being.

Now that you know a little more about the seven chakras, take some time to get acquainted with them. You might want to start by tuning into your own. Pay attention to how you feel each day, paying close attention to when you're feeling peaceful and at ease versus stressed and anxious. This will help you better understand which of the seven might need your attention and healing.

The chakras are said to be the seat of our emotions and spiritual power. They become extremely active, and conduct considerably more prana when a person becomes highly spiritual. This is why many spiritual traditions encourage practices and activities which increase the flow of prana into and throughout the body.

The spiritual journey can get a little bumpy when the body and mind can not freely connect with the divine. The purpose of yoga and other practices that focus on the chakra system is to help us access this energy, access our potential, and live a more fulfilling life.

There are many benefits to aligning and balancing your chakras. When your chakras are open, you may experience improved physical, mental, and emotional health. They can also help you to connect with your higher self, and to live a more balanced and fulfilling life. If you are looking to improve your health and well-being, consider fitting in time for some activities which increase your overall energy.

Chakra healing is an alternative medicine practice that involves working with the body's energy centers, or chakras. The goal of this therapy is to correct any imbalance to the chakras and promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. There are many different techniques that can be used in chakra healing, including reiki, aromatherapy, and sound therapy.

It can include any type of therapy that aims to open the chakras. There are many different techniques that can be used for chakra healing, including meditation, nutritious foods, and yoga. This helps to clear any blockages in the chakra system, and allows for a free flow of energy.

There are many things you can do to balance your chakras. You can meditate, do yoga, reiki or other exercises, eat a balanced diet, and get plenty of rest. You can also try using crystals or essential oils to help unblock your energy system.

As you can see, there are many ways to clear a chakra blockage. Some more ways include dancing, spending time in nature, color therapy, or using mudras and mantras. You can choose one activity that suits you the best. By taking the time to balance your chakras, you will feel more aligned and connected to yourself and the world around you.

When it comes to clearing your chakras, there is no one correct way to do it. Some like to start from the Crown to the Root. Others prefer to start from the Root and clear them in an ascending fashion. It is up to you how you want to proceed.

However, there are certain ways that are more effective than others. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

1. Start with the lower chakras first. As you may remember, this is our foundation. We want to build our house on a strong foundation, and plant our roots in fertile soil. They are responsible for our basic needs and survival instincts. Clearing them will help to release any fears or anxieties that may be holding us back.

2. Work your way up the chakras. Once you have cleared the lower chakras, move on to the higher ones. The higher chakras are responsible for our spiritual development and growth. Clearing them will help you to connect with your higher self and reach your full potential.

3. Feel free to use any focusing tools you have on hand.

Guided meditations are a great way to focus and balance your chakra energy. By following the guidance of a narrator, you can clear blockages and allow your energy to flow freely. This can lead to a sense of well-being and increased vitality.

A large resource to find guided meditations is on YouTube. There are many different types and styles, so it's important to find one that is right for you. If you are new to meditation, it may be helpful to start with a simple guided meditation. Once you have found a style that you like, you can explore more advanced options.

You may be able to find other sources online, in magazines, or even in some books. There are also many CDs and DVDs available that can guide you through a meditation.

If you're ready to get to know your spiritual power, first tune into your chakras. To get started, try this simple exercise:

One way to balance your chakras is through meditation. This can help you to focus and connect with each of your chakras individually. To start meditating on your chakras, find a comfortable place to sit or lie down. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. Starting at the base of your spine, visualize a spinning wheel of color.

The colors might be vivid and bright, or they could be more subtle shades. See if you can detect a pattern in the colors. Can you see a certain color associated with an emotion? Do certain chakras seem to need more cleansing and clearing than others?

You can download a free PDF of this section here for reference.

Sit or lie down in a comfortable position.

Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths.

As you breathe in, imagine red light opening up and spinning clockwise at the base of your spine.

Visualize the light moving up through your body, cleansing and purifying each of your chakras.

As you exhale, imagine any negativity or tension being released from your body.

Continue breathing deeply and focus on each chakra in turn.

If you're just getting started on your journey to understanding the chakras, here's a quick summary of each. They are arranged in ascending order from root to crown, what it is responsible for, and their color.

• The Root chakra anchors us to the physical world and gives us a sense of security. Red
• The Sacral chakra is associated with our creativity and joy. Orange
• The Solar Plexus chakra gives us power and strength. Yellow
• The Heart chakra is the center of love, compassion, and forgiveness. Green
• The Throat chakra governs our communication and self-expression. Blue
• The Third Eye chakra is linked to our intuition, intellect and our ability to see the world clearly. Indigo
• The Crown chakra is connected to our spirituality and our ability to be one with the universe. White or Violet

If you're interested in learning more, I recommend checking out this book on the 7 main chakras or taking one of our online classes.

While it's important to keep all of them balanced, some people find they need a little extra help with one or two in particular. If you're not sure which chakras need balancing, you can take our free chakra assessment here.

Find out whether any of your chakras requires a little extra attention! In addition, I'll provide you with some transformational practices and exercises to boost your sensitivity and unblock your energy flow.