Chakras are described as energy centres along the spine, located at major branchings of the human nervous system, beginning at the base of the spinal column and moving upward to the top of the skull.
Chakra is a Sanskrit word that denotes circle and movement. They can be thought of as wheels or vortices that assimilate and express our vital life energy. When our chakras are out of alignment, severely blocked, or even completely closed off, physical illness or mental health issues may occur.
What can cause our chakras to become blocked? Fear, anger, resentment or guilt can add to the barriers that block the flow of energy to and from the chakra pathway. Chakra closures most likely happen from the top down.
When chakras are balanced, they become clear and open conduits for receiving, assimilating and circulating energy throughout our entire bodies.
The result is vibrant physical health and mental and spiritual well being.
First Chakra – Also called Root Chakra, is located at the base of the spine. It relates to our most basic survival needs and our sense of belonging.
When this chakra is clear and energy flows through it freely, we feel secure and confident that we can easily fulfil our needs. Blockage in this area can cause us to feel anxious and worried.
Second Chakra – This chakra resides in the reproductive area and is associated with creativity and birth-both literally to a new baby and metaphorically to new aspects of ourselves.
When this chakra is healthy, we are able to tap into the more creative sides of ourselves. When this chakra becomes congested, we may experience a block in our creative powers and a sense of dryness or emptiness.
Third Chakra – Located in the solar plexus, governs our will, self-esteem and sense of personal power.
When energy flows freely through this center, we’re confident about our ability to manifest our intentions and desires. When the third chakra is blocked, we feel powerless and frustrated.
Fourth Chakra – Sometimes referred to as the ‘Heart Chakra” because it resonates in the heart and relates to compassion and love.
When the fourth chakra is flowing and open, we feel deeply connected to everyone in our life. When it’s obstructed, we experience loneliness and a sense of alienation.
Fifth Chakra – Localized in the throat area and relates to communication and self-expression.
When our center of communication is clear, we’re able to express our truth without worrying about what others may think. If our fifth chakra is congested, we feel anxious about how other people will react to our views and are likely to censor ourselves.
Sixth Chakra – Also known as the ‘Brow Chakra’, or the ‘Third Eye’, is located between the eyes.
It’s the center of insight, where we integrate all the information and intuition in our life.
When energy isn’t flowing easily through this chakra, we have a sense of self-doubt and distrust. When open and clear, we feel deeply connected to our inner wisdom and trust that it guides us in our choices.
Seventh Chakra – Resides at the crown of the head and is sometimes called the ‘Crown Chakra’.
It connects us to higher consciousness and pure awareness.
The seventh chakra is known as the ‘Thousand Petaled Lotus’, which bursts open when we remember our true nature and experience enlightenment.