Introduction to The Chakra System

Chakras are energy vortexes described in detail in the Ayurvedic System. These are subtle energy centers, located at different places within the body. Though ayurveda has described many different chakras, there are 7 important ones, which run from the base of the spinal cord to the top of the crown. They are:

Muladhara: Base or Root Chakra (last bone in spinal cord *coccyx*

Swadhishthan: Sacral Chakra (ovaries/prostate)

Manipura: Solar Plexus Chakra (navel area)

Anahata: Heart Chakra (heart area)

Vishuddha: Throat Chakra (throat and neck area)

Ajna: Brow or Third Eye Chakra (pineal gland or third eye)

Sahasrara: Crown Chakra (Top of the head; 'Soft spot' of a newborn)

Chakra is a Sanskrit word meaning a wheel. These centers are thought to be spinning wheels of activity that receives, assimilates and expresses life force energy (prana) Each of the chakras is associated with a particular element, color frequency, gemstone and mantra (sound frequencies). Blocked energy in our Chakras can often lead to illness. Removing blockages and achieving balance within these energy centers has been central to ayur-yog healing therapies.

The colours of each chakra are especially symbolic to their function in the body. When we visualize the colour of each chakra we aid in nourishing and balancing the energy that resides there.

Muladhara is symbolized by a red colour of earthly power; Swadhishtan is orange, depicting creativity and exploration; Manipura is symbolized with a yellow colour, like the sun shining light on our individual path, giving us focus and direction; Anahata is associated with a green colour, a representation of new growth, hope, love and higher awareness; Vishuddha chakra is blue- connected to expression, communication and the power to manifest; Ajna chakra is indigo- associated with intuition, clear-sight and integrity, and lastly, Sahasrara chakra is violet in colour and represents spiritual union, connection to the higher-self, and consciousness of divinity.

By learning to tune into the energy of the chakras, one can begin to embrace the fullness of who you truly are.

In the coming months we would be learning more about each of the 7 chakras – their location, functions, characteristics, associated elements and ways of removing blockages.