7 Major Chakras

The Chakra system has developed into a rich, valuable explanation of the holistic nature of humankind. It outlines how in order to maintain a healthy and balanced life, we must attend to not only physical dysfunctions that may occur, but to our emotional, intellectual and spiritual needs as well. Each of the 7 Chakras deals with different parts of this bigger picture and directs us to those areas where we might be functioning out of balance. 

The word "Chakra" comes from the Sanskrit, meaning "spinning wheel". These moderators of subtle energy are often depicted as Lotus flowers, each resonating at different frequencies, corresponding to the colors of the rainbow. Although the human energy system is said to have many Chakras throughout our body and new ones being discovered all the time, the traditional Hindu system names 7 Major Chakras.

Chakra Balancing

A way to demonstrate the inter-connectedness of the Chakras is to think of them as individual gears in an interconnecting structure of cogged wheels. Imagine what would happen if one of these wheels moved too fast or too slowly compared with the rest: the entire system would become unbalanced and would have to be re-aligned before it could work properly again. Similarly, our Chakras can become dysfunctional, being too open or possibly blocked and "spinning" sluggishly due to emotionally-based blockage. 

Once you have identified which dysfunctions relate to your particular life challenges it will be easier to home in on those Chakras you need to pay particular attention to, and the methods you can use to bring them back into equilibrium. Always think of the Chakras system in its entirety and how each one works in harmony with the others to bring you a complete sense of well being.

Location

• The root chakra (Muladhara) is located just below the tailbone and relates to our connection with the physical and material aspects of life (think grounding, home, work, and your body).
• The sacral chakra (Swadisthana) is located around the sacrum/tailbone and is our emotional centre (think likes, dislikes, desires, and attachments).
• The solar plexus chakra (Manipura) is located in the spine behind the navel and is our fire centre (think willpower, determination, confidence, and self-esteem).
• The heart chakra (Anahata) is unsurprisingly located in the spine behind the heart centre, and is all about relationships with others (think unconditional love and compassion).
• The throat chakra (Vishuddhi) is located in the spine behind the pit of the throat and relates to all aspects of communication (listening and speaking).
• The third eye chakra (Ajna) sits at the very top of the spine, and is our centre of intuition (think inner wisdom).
• The seventh is the crown chakra, it sits just above the head and it has an energetic effect on our entire system as well as our connection to the cosmos.