UNDERSTANDING THE 7 CHAKRAS
Understanding the chakras is essential for anyone on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth. Chakras are energy centers in the body that help to regulate our physical and emotional well-being. In this blog post, I’ll provide an overview of the 7 chakras, what they mean, and how they can be balanced (one of my favorite tools to work with).
Understanding the Chakra in the tradition of Shaivism
The word “chakra” has Sanskrit origins and literally translates to “wheel” or “disk.” In the tradition of Shaivism, the chakras are the energy centers in the body that can help regulate our physical and emotional well-being. In Shaivism, the body is seen as a temple of the divine and the chakras help to keep it in balance. They are connected to the body’s subtle energy system. When they are balanced, we experience harmony and wellbeing. When they are imbalanced, however, we can experience physical, mental, and emotional distress. Introduction to the 7 Chakras
There are 7 major chakras located throughout the body. These are the root chakra, sacral chakra, solar plexus chakra, heart chakra, throat chakra, third eye chakra, and crown chakra.
Each chakra resonates with a certain energy and is associated with certain physical and emotional qualities. The root chakra, for example, is associated with the Earth element and is related to our sense of security, stability, and survival. The sacral chakra is associated with the Water element and is related to our sensuality, creativity, and joy. The solar plexus chakra is associated with the Fire element and is related to our power, confidence, and ambition…
Here’s a breakdown of each chakra:
Root Chakra (Muladhara): This chakra is associated with the Earth element and is related to our sense of security, stability, and survival. It is located at the base of the spine and is associated with our connection to the physical world and to our physical body.
Sacral Chakra (Svadhishthana): This chakra is associated with the Water element and is related to our sensuality, creativity, and joy. It is located in the lower abdomen and is associated with our connection to our emotions and to our sexuality.
Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipura): This chakra is associated with the Fire element and is related to our power, confidence, and ambition. It is located in the upper abdomen and is associated with our connection to our personal power and to our ability to manifest our goals.
Heart Chakra (Anahata): This chakra is associated with the Air element and is related to our love, compassion, and connection. It is located in the center of the chest and is associated with our connection to our inner self and to other people.
Throat Chakra (Vishuddha): This chakra is associated with the Ether element and is related to our communication and expression. It is located in the throat and is associated with our connection to our inner voice and to our spiritual self.
Third Eye Chakra (Ajna): This chakra is associated with the Light element and is related to our intuition and insight. It is located between the eyebrows and is associated with our connection to our inner wisdom and to our spiritual guidance.
Crown Chakra (Sahasrara): This chakra is associated with the Divine element and is related to our spiritual connection and enlightenment. It is located at the top of the head and is associated with our connection to higher consciousness and to our spiritual path.
Identifying Unbalanced Chakras
When our chakras are out of balance, we can experience physical, mental, and emotional distress. Identifying an unbalanced chakra is the first step to restoring balance and harmony. Here are some common signs that a chakra might be out of balance:
Root Chakra: feeling disconnected from the physical world, feeling unsafe, difficulty concentrating
Sacral Chakra: feeling blocked creatively, difficulty trusting others, feeling uninspired
Solar Plexus Chakra: feeling powerless, experiencing low self-esteem, lacking motivation
Heart Chakra: feeling disconnected from others, feeling isolated, difficulty expressing emotions
Throat Chakra: difficulty communicating, feeling unheard, feeling blocked spiritually
Third Eye Chakra: difficulty making decisions, feeling confused, difficulty trusting your intuition
Crown Chakra: feeling disconnected from your spiritual self, feeling overwhelmed, difficulty finding meaning
Tips to Open and Balance each Chakra
Root Chakra: Grounding activities such as yoga, walking in nature, and meditation.
Sacral Chakra: Creative activities such as dancing, painting, and writing.
Solar Plexus Chakra: Self-care activities such as journaling, affirmations, and positive self-talk.
Heart Chakra: Compassionate activities such as volunteering, helping others, and expressing gratitude.
Throat Chakra: Connective activities such as singing, chanting, and speaking your truth.
Third Eye Chakra: Intuitive activities such as dream journaling, crystal healing, and connecting to your inner wisdom.
Crown Chakra: Spiritual activities such as yoga, meditation, and visualization.
Crystals for each Chakra
Root Chakra: red jasper & ruby
Sacral Chakra: carnelian & citrine
Solar Plexus Chakra: tiger’s eye & topaz
Heart Chakra: aventurine & emerald
Throat Chakra: lapis lazuli & sapphire
Third Eye Chakra: amethyst & fluorite
Crown Chakra: quartz & selenit
I hope this was helpful to understand on how your own system works explained within the system of chakras.
