Let’s talk about chakras.  What even are they? 

Let’s talk about chakras.  What are they?  Where can they be located in the body and how many are there? 

Chakras are wheels of spinning energy that for many thousands of years, mystics have worked with and studied, incorporating them into their spiritual practices.  The literal meaning of the word chakra means “wheel” or “disk” and references a spiritual energy centre within the human body.  These energy centres are concentrations of vital life force within the body formed when lines of energy running through the body overlap.    

Each chakra corresponds and relates to specific organs as well as physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual states of being and influence all areas of your life.  

Studies have shown that the chakra system evolved and originated in the oldest text called the Vedas.  This was in India between 1500 and 500 BC and it is in these earliest Sanskrit literary records (the most ancient scriptures of Hinduism) that we can learn about these energy centres.   

Other than the obvious benefit of an overall state of wellbeing ~ the added perks of working with chakra energy in a positive way has been linked to an increased lifespan as well as physical, mental and emotional health.  Within each chakras is ‘prana,’ or the ultimate pure healing energy, that’s all around us and within us, to keep us healthy, happy and vibrant.    

Western science may not have been able to prove how spiritual energy translates into physical manifestations but the study of the seven chakras and the benefits of chakra alignment ~ which can be achieved through various practices such as meditation, yoga or reiki  ~ stems from the belief that when each chakra is open and aligned, our energy is invariably free-flowing, allowing this pure healing energy (prana) to flow through them.  Chakras are also part of a much bigger human auric field.  The aura is a dynamic field of energy that surrounds and permeates the human body.  It is in constant motion ~ a bit like a pulsating, living cloud and the quality, colour and vibration of this cloud can change from one moment to the next.  Psychics and mystics believe we spiritually connect to the entire universe through this energy body and that the physical body is simply the densest aspect of our being.  Our aura therefore, is a more true representation of who we truly are and our chakras connect our dense physical body and our lighter auric fields together.  As discussed chakras are concentrated points of energy and when they are healthy, vital life energy is allowed to flow through them without interference.  When this happens their colours are clear and bright.  Energetic imbalances in the chakras however result in them being more dull, dark and dense in appearance.

With the use of muscle testing Kinesiologists can help a person to rebalance their chakras by establishing which chakras are out of alignment and understanding where in their lives they are out of balance in relation to that chakra.  This insight in relation to the overall goal the person is working with can help an individual regain physical, mental, emotional and spiritual clarity.  

There are according to Theosophical Society (which has had a great influence on the Western worlds understanding of chakras) 7 recognised chakras.  Namely the root chakra, the sacral chakra, the solar plexus chakra, the heart chakra, the throat chakra, the third eye chakra and the crown chakra.  Chakras have many conflicting descriptions and this trend continues to this day.  The location, colour, size, quality and purpose of chakras vary from philosophy to philosophy and mystic to mystic.        

The root chakra or MULADHARA means “ROOT support” and is located at the base of the spine.  The root chakra is associated with a deep red colour and can be likened to the foundation of a house ~ sturdy, stabilising and supportive.  Physically it is associated with the base of the spine, the pelvic floor and the first three vertebrae.  It is responsible for a person’s sense of security and their survival instinct.    

When it’s blocked:  A variety of conditions can occur and may include anxiety disorders, fears and/or nightmares.  Physically, the first chakra is associated with problems in the colon, with the bladder, issues with elimination and possibly the lower back, leg or feet issues.

The sacral chakra or SVADHISHTHANA means “sweetness”.  Responsible for our sexual and creative energies the sacral chakra is located above the pubic bone and below the navel.  Associated with the colour orange and the element of water, when your sacral chakra is aligned, you will more than likely feel great!  Friendly, passionate and successfully fulfilled whilst also eliciting feelings of wellness, abundance, pleasure, and joy.  By honouring your body and expressing yourself creatively, you’re keeping the energy wheels turning!  

When it’s blocked:  When you happen to feel feel uninspired creatively your sacral chakra may be misaligned. Likewise, this can also be associated with sexual disfunction, depression, fear or change or addiction.  

The solar plexus chakra or MANIPURA with it’s name meaning “lustrous gem” in Sanskrit is said to be your source of individual power.  Think will power, action and commitment.  A bright and clear solar plexus chakra helps you wield your personal power in the world.  It is the flame of metamorphosis, powering you up and fuelling your action in the world.  Located from the navel to the ribcage, it governs all things metabolic, digestive, and stomach-related.

When it’s blocked: You can suffer from low self-esteem, become indecisive, and may experience anger or control issues.  Issues with procrastination can arise and you may easily be taken advantage of.  Physically you may also be experiencing a tummy ache of some kind caused by digestive issues.  

The heart chakra or ANAHATA meaning “unstruck” – meaning a sound that is made without any two things striking. It is thought to be a bright emerald green.  As the central chakra, the fourth chakra, found at the center of your chest, represents where the physical and the spiritual meet. Physically, it’s said to encapsulate the heart, the thymus gland (which plays a vital role in your endocrine and lymphatic system), the lungs, and the breasts.  Anahata is the ruler of love, breath, balance, relationships and unity.  It governs matters of love and connection ~ romance, friendship and heart connection.  When your heart chakra’s needs are met, you feel loved and you love yourself.  The universal urge that we all have to love and be loved originates in the heart chakra.  

When it’s blocked: A closed heart chakra can cause grief, anger, jealousy and hatred toward yourself and others—especially in the form of holding a grudge against something or someone.  

The throat chakra or VISHUDDHA which means “purification”.  This chakra is located in the throat and is blue in the Western chakra system.  The major association of the throat chakra is with speech, communication and creative expression.  When the throat chakra is clear and open, we are able to let things go, especially with our own past choices or express our views in a healthy way.  Anatomically, the throat chakra is associated with the thyroid, parathyroid, jaw, neck, mouth, tongue, and larynx.  

When it’s blocked: In addition to having trouble speaking your truth, you may find it hard to pay attention and stay focused and often fear judgment from others.  Physically, this blockage can manifest itself as a sore throat, thyroid issues, neck and shoulder stiffness, or tension headaches.

The third-eye chakra or AJNA means “command”.  The third-eye chakra is your sixth chakra, and is physically located between your eyebrows. Organs include the pituitary gland, eyes, head, and lower part of the brain are said to be ruled by the third eye.  Traditionally AJNA is white in colour but in the Western system is an Indigo blue.  This chakra reportedly governs your intuition—plus the ability to recognise and tap into it.  The AJNA governs spiritual awakening.  

When it’s blocked: You may have trouble accessing your intuition and trusting your inner voice.  Recalling important facts and learning new skills may be a problem for you and if your lower chakras— i.e. the root, sacral, solar plexus, and heart chakras ~ are unbalanced, your third eye will likely be as well, which may cause you to act more judgmental, dismissive, and introverted. A third-eye blockage is associated with a broad range of issues, including depression, anxiety and other brain health issues.  

The crown chakra or SAHASRARA, meaning “thousand petalled”, in reference to the infinite petals visualised with this chakra in the traditional system.  

The Sahasrara is the centre of enlightenment and our spiritual connection to our higher selves, others, and ultimately, the divine.  Located at the crown of your head it is seen as violet or white.  The consciousness of the crown chakra is beyond all duality, all grasping.  

When it’s blocked: A crown-chakra blockage may create feelings of isolation or emotional distress—basically feeling disconnected from everyone and everything.  You may be able to get a taste of it, though, through daily practices such as meditation, prayer and  moments of silence and gratitude to have those moments of spiritual connection.

For some soul shaking stuff get in touch with Kim on 0459 308 029 or 02 8406 0679 or book online at www.nbip.com.au 

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