In coming to know the chakras, let us first understand the origins of this system. The concept comes to us from India as it is strongly associated with the practice of Yoga. The word “chakra” itself is Sanskrit for “wheel”, describing the appearance of the chakras as rotating disks.
The function of a chakra, according to modern understanding is to convert energy from the subtle (spiritual) plane to the physical. These centers work in both directions, both sending and receiving energy throughout the body as well as the cosmos. In this action, the energy forms into a vortex which would appear as a rotating wheel to one viewing a body directly from front or behind.
Chakras are points of concentration and high activity within the energetic body, or aura. They are the points in the body at which prana, or life force, is regulated and transformed to perform particular tasks within the physical body. There are many chakras throughout the physical and subtle bodies. Between seven and thirteen of these, depending on tradition, are the major chakras, each associated with a different area of the body. In addition to the major chakras are the minor chakras — one in each hand and foot, and several others throughout the physical body.
Diagram of the chakras with Western labels.
The major chakras are activated from the base of the spine upward. The first is the root chakra, Muladhara, connecting us to earth energy and primal nature. This chakra is most healthy when one feels confident and secure in life.
Next is the sacral chakra, Svadhisthana, associated with sexual desire, virility, and creativity. When this chakra is balanced, personal expression comes more easily. Sexual relationships will generally be healthier, as well.
The solar plexus chakra, Manipura, governs our confidence and personal power. A healthy solar plexus chakra helps with the appropriate expression of respect for oneself and others. One should be self-confident without being controlling towards others.
At the center of the chakra system is the heart chakra, Anahata. This chakra governs our interpersonal connections as well as acting as a bridge between the upper and lower chakras. Healthy heart energy allows one to feel unconditional love, as well as true empathy.
Vishuddha, the throat chakra, acts as our source of verbal expression. This chakra is most healthy, and likewise maintained, through true speech. It also allows effective communication.
The third eye chakra, Ajna, governs intuition and foresight. One with a healthy third eye chakra will be highly intuitive, and perhaps charismatic. All of this is the result of a clearer perception of the truth.
Finally, the crown chakra, Sahaswara, is the seat of enlightenment; it is our connection to higher realms and the source of our souls. A healthy crown chakra conveys ultimate peace with oneself. This sense of peace may be felt by those nearby, creating an atmosphere of comfort to which others are naturally drawn.
18th Century painting from Punjab Hills, India.
Ideally, the chakras perform in a beautiful harmony, drawing energy from the earth to maintain the body, as well as from the universe to balance the spirit. In this task, the chakras feed from, and harmonize with, each other. Due to this interconnection, if one chakra becomes slowed or blocked, it can bring others out of synchrony as well.
Meditation is an important tool in preventing such issues, but awareness of the state of one’s chakras is the first step. Simply meditate on each in turn, fill it with energy, or concentrate on the sensation of it within your body.
For further reading:
