Overview

Chakra is a Sanskrit word which means a spinning wheel or vortex. At the central core of our body, along the spinal cord, there are seven main wheel-like energy centres called chakras. These chakras have the ability to receive, assimilate and transmit energy. They are the energetic gateway that provide an outlet for the dispersal of transmitted energy. Although the life force called ‘chi’ or ‘prana’ is released by these seven main chakras, there are many other minor chakras that exist at the joints of our body. As long as energy inside the body flows freely, our health is maintained. Whenever some blockage occurs in one or more of our chakras, the life force energy is not able to flow in and out freely. This causes the body to suffer, which results in illness and poor health. Chakras are also associated with our physical, mental and emotional states. When energy does not flow freely from the chakras, it becomes important to re-establish it. It is interesting to know that all seven chakras are associated with a specific sound and colour. This is why different colours and sound vibrations are used to balance chakras in order to restore health. As we expose our body to different colours and sound vibrations, it absorbs vibration which in turn brings about the change in body energy. There are some other tools that are commonly used to balance chakras like crystals, gems, light, aromatherapy, sacred geometrical devices and touch therapies. Reiki is also used to balance chakras where the therapist places his hands over chakras. Factors such as stress, inability to express emotions, being overtly emotional, unhealthy diet, lack of exercise and exposure to toxicity can also cause blockage in chakra system.

THE SEVEN CHAKRAS
• The Chakra Seven or Crown Chakra is located at top of the head. This Chakra is associated with divine wisdom, our oneness with universe and enlightenment.
• The Chakra Six or Third Eye Chakra is located in the centre of the head and it is related to our ability to perceive clearly, intuition, insight and imagination.
• The Chakra Five or the Throat Chakra is located in the centre of throat and it is linked to our creative aspect and ability to communicate.
• The Chakra Four or the Heart Chakra is located at the centre of the chest and is associated with love and understanding.
• The Chakra Three or the Solar Plexus Chakra is located an inch or two above the navel. It focuses on our willpower, self-control and discipline.
• The Chakra Two or the Sexual Chakra is located in the lower abdomen and it is associated with emotions, feelings, states of desires and imagination.
• The Chakra One or the Root Chakra is located at the base of spine and it is related to survival, our body and identity as an individual.