ॐ Hindu Of Universe ॐ
“God’s light is within you, It never leaves you.”
Chakra Gods and Goddesses
In the Hindu tradition, there are gods and goddesses associated with each of the chakras.
The chakras are major energy centers in the body. Chakra deities in Hinduism embody the characteristics of their respective chakras.
This relates to the psychological and emotional patterns for that particular chakra.
In addition, the stories and adventures of the gods and goddesses of Hinduism remind us of the role of each chakra.
Understanding the Gods and Goddesses
The gods and goddesses of Hinduism can be viewed as religious parables.
They can also be seen as mythology or as legends based on the lives of ancient historical persons. Perhaps the most significant aspect of relating to a god or goddess is the sense of a personal relationship.
They exist at some level whether that be psychological, spiritual, or factual.
Characteristics of the Chakra Deities
Every tradition has heroes and heroines that are examples which others can emulate.
Root Chakra Gods and Goddesses
The Hindu gods Brahma, Indra and Ganesha are associated with the root chakra. Shakti or Kundalini are names for the feminine energy or goddess of the root chakra. Extensive information about the root chakra can be found in the article Root Chakra Meaning.
Role of Root Chakra Deities
Root chakra deities help to establish a foundation: Brahma is the creative aspect of God, Indra is the god of the heaven above, and the elephant-headed god Ganesha helps to overcome obstacles here on earth.
Shakti is the energy that enlivens all of life, the unformed energy of the universal.
The goddess Kundalini is specifically the energy coiled at the root chakra that is drawn upwards to the crown.
Root Chakra Gods and Goddesses
The Hindu gods Brahma, Indra and Ganesha are associated with the root chakra. Shakti or Kundalini are names for the feminine energy or goddess of the root chakra. Extensive information about the root chakra can be found in the article Root Chakra Meaning.
Role of Root Chakra Deities
Root chakra deities help to establish a foundation: Brahma is the creative aspect of God, Indra is the god of the heaven above, and the elephant-headed god Ganesha helps to overcome obstacles here on earth.
Shakti is the energy that enlivens all of life, the unformed energy of the universal.
The goddess Kundalini is specifically the energy coiled at the root chakra that is drawn upwards to the crown.
Brahma: Master of the Root Chakra
Brahma is the Hindu creator god also known as the Self-Born, the Lord of Speech, and the creator of the four Vedas.
Brahma is the consort of Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge and wisdom. Brahma is traditionally depicted with four faces and four arms.
Symbolism of Brahma
Each face points to a cardinal direction.
His hands hold symbols of knowledge and creation: sacred texts, mala beads symbolizing time, a ladle used to feed a sacrificial fire, and a lotus.
Brahma is often depicted with a white beard and a sage-like expression.
He sits on a lotus flower, dressed in white, red or pink, often with a swan or goose nearby upon which he can ride.
Ganesha: Beloved Hindu God of the Root Chakra
Ganesha, a beloved elephant-headed Hindu god, is another prominent figure connected to the root or base chakra.
Ganesha is often invoked at the beginning of an undertaking or an event.
This makes sense: the root chakra must be aligned and purified for the energy to rise to the other chakras.
Thus, the root chakra is the beginning on the spiritual path.
Role of Ganesha
Ganesha is the patron of writers and learning.
He is also known as Ganapati, Vinayaka, and Pillaiyar.
In Hindu mythology, Ganesha is said to be the son of the goddess Parvati and Shiva, a member of the Hindu trinity somewhat akin to the Holy Spirit in Christianity. Ganesha became a popular deity in the 2nd to 5th centuries AD.
He is found in various traditions including Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism.
Symbolism of Ganesha
Ganesha symbolism gives a glimpse into the stories and spiritual meaning of this well-known Hindu god.
Accordingly, many of the symbols associated with Ganesha relate to his role as the remover of obstacles and the patron of new beginnings.
These symbols include his large belly (to hold the universe), his large ears (to create success through listening), his powerful trunk (mastery and strength), etc.
Goddess Kundalini: Feminine Energy of the Root Chakra
The Sanskrit word “kundalini” means “coiled like a snake.” The snake is a common symbol of the kundalini, the energy curled at the base of the spine.
As the kundalini moves upward, the energy flows through the seven major energy centers called chakras.
The Many Faces of the Goddess
The kundalini energy has been personified as a goddess in many different forms. The Goddess Kundalini is sometimes called Adi Parashakti.
This literally means the “first and highest feminine energy.”
Another goddess associated strongly with the kundalini energy is Durga..
Awakening the Kundalini
The awakening of the kundalini is viewed as one of the first steps on the spiritual path.
Preliminary practices such as service, prayer, forgiveness, and purification are necessary to avoid becoming imbalanced as the kundalini energy surges.
Goddess mantras are also effective in raising the Goddess Kundalini from her resting place.
The goal of this goddess energy is to merge with the masculine energy in the upper chakras: throat, third eye and head.
Sacral Chakra Gods and Goddesses
The sacral chakra is associated with gods and goddesses including Vishnu, the goddess Rakini and the goddess Parvati.
There are others, but these are three of the main sacral chakra deities.
Vishnu is an incarnation of Krishna.
In this incarnation, he is the consort of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth.
Parvati: Sacral Chakra Goddess of Love
Parvati, also known as Uma, is the Hindu goddess of fertility, love and devotion as well as divine strength and power.
She is the gentle and nurturing aspect of the goddess energy and the consort of Shiva.
Parvati is part of a trinity of Hindu goddesses that also includes Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge and learning.
Hear a mantra to Parvati
Vishnu the Preserver: Sacral Chakra God
Vishnu is an incarnation of Krishna.
In this incarnation, he is the consort of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. Vishnu is known as the preserver or the one who maintains the cosmos.
He is one of the three persons of the Hindu trinity: Brahma (creator), Vishnu or Krishna (preserver) and Shiva (destroyer).
Goddess Rakini: Sacral Chakra Hindu Goddess
Rakini is a goddess with two heads representing the duality between the external and internal worlds.
This duality is also symbolized in light and dark, male and female, yin and yang, night and day, expansion and contraction and so forth.
Solar Plexus Chakra Gods and Goddesses
The solar plexus chakra is associated with the god Rudra, his consort Lakini, and the goddess Lakshmi.
The solar plexus is the fire center, often symbolized by the color yellow or a sun-like image
Rudra: Solar Plexus God in Hinduism
Rudra is a form of Shiva, usually depicted with a scarlet hue and three eyes.
In this personification, Rudra is represented as an old man with a powerful bull as his vehicle.
This is a form of Shiva that annihilates desire and wrong action.
Rudra helps to dissolve worldly desires.
He is covered with ashes, representing the final stage of matter when incinerated.
This makes Rudra a symbol of immortality, dispelling all fear.
Rudra appears in the Vedas, ancient sacred scriptures.
He has both destructive and beneficial aspects.
Rudra is the divine archer, shooting arrows of disease and death. He is also a healer and source of remedies for ailments.
This powerful Hindu god is associated with the solar plexus and the heart chakras.
Lakshmi: Solar Plexus Goddess of Wealth
Lakshmi is the goddess of wealth, fortune and prosperity.
Her name is derived from a Sanskrit word meaning goal, aim or sign.
In addition, Lakshmi is usually shown seated or standing on a lotus.
The lotus symbolizes creation, beauty, harmony, diversity, stability, and support.
The benefit of maintaining equilibrium and peace in the solar plexus is the ability to acquire and retain great wealth.
Lakini: Solar Plexus Chakra Benefactor Goddess
Lakini is a benefactor goddess and the consort of Rudra. Lakini has four arms.
Three of her hands hold symbolic items (a thunderbolt, an arrow, and fire).
Her fourth hand is held in the gesture or mudra of granting wishes and dispelling fears.
Lakini is associated with the solar plexus, seat of the sun and the power of the emotions, intuition, and gut feelings.
Heart Chakra Gods and Goddesses
Mantras for the heart chakra emphasize the heart as the seat of love and devotion. The heart expresses charity, compassion, and kindness. The heart is a focus for beauty and culture.
The heart brings the awareness of community and compassion for others. Learn more about the heart chakra in Heart Chakra Meaning.
One of the main deities associated with the heart in Hinduism is Hanuman, the monkey-faced god who features prominently in the Hindu epic the Ramayana.
Hanuman: Heart Chakra God of Hinduism
Hanuman is a key deity in the Hindu tradition associated with the heart chakra. Hanuman is the monkey god, hero of epics and stories in Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism.
Hanuman is the ardent devotee of Lord Rama, and he plays a central role in the epic poem Ramayana.
Hanuman is sometimes depicted as the patron of martial arts, wrestling, and acrobatics. I think of Hanuman as an Eastern superhero, somewhat akin to Superman or Spiderman or Batman.
He is also the patron of meditation and scholarship.
Kuan Yin: Heart Chakra Goddess
The goddess Kuan Yin appears in Indian sutras (scriptures) as well as in Chinese or Tibetan Buddhism.
She is associated with compassion, the primary quality of the heart. Kuan Yin symbolizes mercy and compassion.
She is a bodhisattva.
This means she has taken a vow to save all beings from suffering, foregoing full Buddhahood until all sentient beings are free.
Kuan Yin comes as a Divine Mother to dispel all illusion.
A beautiful legend is that Kuan Yin was on the threshold of heaven when she paused and heard the anguished cries of the world. She then returned to earth to help all who are suffering.
Kuan Yin’s full name is Kuan-shih-yin.
This means “one who regards, looks on and hears the sounds of the world.”
Kuan Yin originally had the name and form of Avalokitesvara, a male name and masculine being. Avalokitesvara means “the lord who sees or hears the sounds of the world.”
Avalokitesvara was a Buddhist deity who evolved in Tibet into the female buddha Kuan Yin.
Throat Chakra Gods and Goddesses
The throat chakra is connected to creativity and self-expression as well as the actions of speaking, chanting and singing. Mantras are an ideal tool for supporting the thyroid and related organs.
One of the central Hindu gods associated with the throat chakra is Sadashiva.
Other deities for the throat chakra are Ishvara and the goddess Saraswati.
Sadashiva: Throat Chakra God
Sadashiva is the highest form of Shiva, the Hindu god of dissolution, somewhat akin to the Holy Spirit in the Western tradition.
Sometimes Sadashiva is depicted with five faces representing five emanations of God or the four directions plus upward movement. Other sources view Sadashiva’s five faces as symbolizing the forces of the universe: creation, preservation, destruction, obscuration and grace.
Sadashiva wears a tiger skin indicating his victory over animal instincts.
The snake around his neck represents the endless cycle of birth and death.
The trishula held in one hand is a three-in-one symbol representing the divine as a trinity.
Ishvara: Hindu Lord of the Throat Chakra
Ishvara is sometimes viewed as the embodiment of the Higher Self rather than a particular deity.
In other schools of Hinduism, Ishvara is equivalent to Shiva.
In other movements, Ishvara is synonymous with Brahma.
The name “Ishvara” means “ruler of blessings” or “chief suitor.”
In Buddhism, Ishvara is associated with Avalokitesvara, a bodhisattva that originated in a male form but is sometimes referred to as female (Isvari).
This is a variation of Kuan Yin, also associated with the heart chakra.
Saraswati: Throat Chakra Goddess
Saraswati is the Hindu goddess of wisdom, music and the arts.
Her name means “the flowing one.”
Her mantras often contain the seed syllable AIM, a feminine counterpart to OM.
The bija syllable AIM is purported to strengthen the voice, clear the senses and open the lungs.
In ancient times, the ability to recite poetry and memorize Vedic scriptures was a highly honored skill. Saraswati is credited with granting this gift to her devotees.
She is appropriately the goddess for the throat chakra since she governs speech, singing, and music.
Goddesses often have multiple names reflecting all of their qualities and powers.
Many have a thousand names! Saraswati is known by several lovely names including the following: Saraswati Mata: Mother of Water and Lakes; Bharadi Mata: Mother of Wisdom and Science; and Bilvani Mata: Mother of the Woods.
Third Eye Chakra Gods and Goddesses
The third eye is associated with several deities and combined forms of deities.
For example, Shiva is often depicted as having three eyes because of his powerful development of this chakra.
Other deities associated with the third eye include Vishnu and his incarnations as Krishna and Rama.
The goddess Shakti is also associated with the third eye as the consort of Shiva.
Krishna: Third Eye Chakra Hindu God
Krishna, one of the Hindu gods most closely associated with the third eye chakra, is the son of Devaki and her consort Vasudeva, king of the Chandravanshi clan.
Devaki’s brother was Kansa, an evil tyrant.
He was told that a child of Devaki would kill him, so he set out to murder the young Krishna.
For his own protection, Krishna was sent to live in the country with Nanda and his wife Yasoda.
Krishna’s childhood was spent among their cow herds.
This is the origin of Krishna’s childhood names, Gopala and Govinda.
Shiva the Destroyer: Power of the Third Eye Chakra
Shiva is one of the three persons of the Hindu trinity.
There are many forms of Shiva, including the one (Sadashiva) associated with the throat chakra and Nataraja (associated with the crown chakra).
Shiva is the aspect of God that strips the devotee of all illusions.
Thus, he is the god of the third eye or spiritual vision. Shiva is said to possess enough power in his third eye to send out a deadly beam at will.
Rama the Healer: Third Eye Chakra God
Rama is a god of protection, one of the nine incarnations of Vishnu.
Rama is the most popular avatar of Vishnu, a paragon of virtue and chivalry.
Rama is the central character in the Hindu epic the Ramayana.
He is the consort of Sita.
Rama, also known as Ram, and Sita have many adventures and trials together in this ancient story.
Ram and Sita are sometimes viewed as symbolizing the unmanifest and the manifest minds or the pineal and pituitary glands.
Sita and Ram are the ideal spouses.
While Sita represents courage, dedication and purity, Ram (or Rama) represents truth, the soul and virtue.
Shakti: Third Eye Chakra Goddess
The third eye chakra is symbolized by a central circle and a right and left lotus petal. The two petals of the 3rd eye symbol represent the ida and pingala (mystical spiritual channels).
The petals also represent Shiva (a masculine deity) and Shakti (feminine form of God) on the left and right, respectively.
In addition, the ida and pingala are sometimes viewed as the unconscious and conscious minds.
Finally, the two petals also represent the pineal and pituitary glands.
Shakti is the unformed energy of the universe much like the kundalini in the root chakra. However, the Goddess Shakti is uncontained and unbound where the Goddess Kundalini remains coiled at the base of the spine until awakened.
It is Shiva or the masculine energy which provides a container or sets parameters for the expression of the Shakti energy.
This is why the Goddess Shakti must be balanced by the intensity of Shiva.
Crown Chakra Hindu Gods and Goddesses
One of the presiding deities for the crown chakra is Shiva— often depicted in a dancing form known as Nataraja—Lord of the Dance.
Shiva is one of the principal gods of Hinduism, part of the trinity composed of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva.
The goddess for the crown chakra is Chamunda, often interchanged with the goddesses Kali or Durga.
Nataraja: Crown Chakra Cosmic Dancer
Nataraja is the dancing form of Shiva, a joyful being spinning and dancing through creation.
Shiva is often shown with a serpent around his neck, a crescent moon as an adornment, the river Ganges flowing from his hair or flowing nearby, the trishula as his weapon, and a damaru (drum) nearby.
Shiva: Crown Chakra God
Shiva is the destroyer of evil, akin to the Holy Spirit in the Christian trinity. Shiva is alternately depicted both as benevolent and fearsome.
Shiva is often shown with a serpent around his neck, a crescent moon as an adornment, the river Ganges flowing from his hair or flowing nearby, the trishula as his weapon, and a damaru (drum) nearby.
Chamunda: Crown Chakra Goddess
The Goddess Chamunda is a fearsome form of the goddess Chandi. She is the goddess of war, time, death and disasters.
Chamunda may have originated as a tribal goddess and been assimilated into mainstream Hinduism at a later date.
Chamunda is often viewed as interchangeable with the goddesses Kali and Durga.
Kali is a more well-known version of this fierce goddess.
She is an intimidating figure, brandishing multiple weapons with her many arms.
Kali wears a skirt of severed arms and a gruesome garland of heads.
These grisly body parts are symbolic of the demonic forces that she slays to protect her devotees.
Durga is a principal form of the Divine Mother in Hinduism.
She personifies the vibration of the fierce mother, moving into battle to protect her own and never simply for the sake of violence.
The name Durga means a fort or a place that is difficult to overrun.
This is appropriate for a goddess representing the crown chakra.
Once the goddess energy has reached this level, the chances of being overcome with worldly desires or ambitions is relatively low.
Understanding the Chakra Gods and Goddesses
There are several ways to develop a deeper understanding of the Hindu deities.
You can strengthen your own chakras through developing this connection.
The following are some ideas and spiritual practices that can assist in this process:
- Study the stories of the chakra deities in Hinduism to understand the qualities that they possess. These could be yogic siddhis (powers) or admirable personal characteristics such as fearlessness, compassion or loyalty.
- Investigate the iconography or symbolism in depictions of one or more of the gods or goddesses for a chakra. Many gods and goddesses hold symbolic objects in their hands or use their hands in mudras or symbolic gestures.
- Meditate on an image or statue of the chakra deity. Deepen your connection to your own qualities and virtues embodied by that deity.
- Use mantras or chants related to the chosen chakra deity. Mantras help to activate the qualities of the deity within yourself.
More Chakra Resources
Chakras and Musical Notes: Chakras and musical notes have been paired in a number of ways. Learn about both Western and Eastern systems.
Chakra Names: Chakra names reveal the roles of the chakras in the body on psychological, spiritual and emotional levels. Includes explanations of English and Sanskrit chakra names.
Chakra Flowers: Chakra flowers offer unique symbolic meaning for each of the seven major chakras. Flowers are among the oldest spiritual symbols, revealing the meaning of each chakra.
Which are the Gods/ Goddesses and Colors associated with the 7 Chakras in our body?
To gain spiritual knowledge and experience in discovering the sources of your energy feels enlightening and awakening.
There are secrets of the universe and the 7 chakra are one of them.
They have control over your unconscious mind till one is unknown to them, so to study and learn about them might help one to achieve their desired life
Chakras in human body
There are 114 chakras in human body among which 2 are outside physical body only 108 can be worked upon .
Among these 108 chakras there are 7 Chakras that are predominant or fundamental known as muladhara .
Though chakras are considered to be circular in shape they are actually triangular a closer examination of pictures of chakras can help us recognize their triangular shape.
Almost every piece of information on chakras emphasis on its color and texture whereas there is no proof on Upanishads or Vedas stating about its color.
How do these chakras open?
The chakra actually belongs to tantric or yogic science of Hindu mythology.
The Hindu mythology mostly relies on concept of vibration. According to Hinduism , each chakra has what is called a “seed sound”.
These seed sounds are the symbolic representations of the energy pattern of each chakra and hold its essence. Seed sounds are also referred to as Baja mantras.
By chanting these mantras, the individual resonates with the particular chakra. Crystal bowls or tuning forks are often used to aid those wishing to resonate with these chakras.
By sitting certain composure and chanting the respective mantra one can indeed open the chakras.
Why should I open these chakras?
If you feel you are all alone in this crowded world, in despair, deserted or lacks confidence, if you feel like you don’t belong in this world, can’t control your fear, rage enthusiasm, if you feel you are very outspoken and you feel sad for hurting your friends out of your love turned obsession, if you have any physical illness and if you belong to any of this criteria this clearly shows that that either your chakras are closed or they are over active.
It’s important to understand the significance and effects of the Seven Chakras on our life to bring balance to our energy flow.
If any of your Chakras are overactive, you need not necessarily close them .
If all chakras are open the energy flow will be balanced.
The 7 Chakras
The Root Chakra
It is located below sacrum bone.
The endocrine system is adrenal gland.
The colour of this chakra is red.
It is basis or root of all chakras .
The Karmas of our past lives rest in the root chakra, and from these arise the happiness or unhappiness experienced in this current life.
We are not supposed to open the other chakras without opening root chakra.
This chakra is based on physical awareness and feeling comfortable in diverse situations.
If it is opened; one will feel well-balanced and sensible, stable and secure. You won’t distrust people around you for no reason.
You will be very much connected to your physical body.
If it is under- active; One tends to be fearful or nervous, and might feel easily unwelcome.
If it’s over-active: you may be materialistic and greedy.
The Sacral Chakra
The svadhisthana Chakra lies about three centimeters above the root Chakra between the coccyx and the sacrum.
The colour of this chakra is orange.
The activation of these Karmas now occurs in the sacral Chakra, and it is here that we have the opportunity to purify them.
Even though our weaknesses and mistakes are located in this Chakra, it is here that a valuable opportunity to develop our human consciousness to a higher level is offered.
If it is open; one will feel liberal , and without being over-emotional.
You would be open to affinity and passionate .
You also have no problems based on sexuality.
If it’s under-active: you tend to be impassive.
If it’s over-active: you tend to be sensitive and emotional all the time.
You may also be very sexual.
The Solar Plexus Chakra
The position of the Manipura Chakra is in the middle of the abdomen behind the navel so it is also known as the Navel chakra.
At the Manipura Chakra more than of half the journey towards realization has already been completed.
This chakra encircles self confidence and dignity.
If it’s under-active: you tend to be confused and reluctant.
If it’s over-active: you tend to be imperious and aggressive.
The Heart Chakra
It is located in the region of the heart, in the centre of the chest.
When our heart opens to divine love, our love becomes infinite.
This chakra encircles love.
When open; one seems to be compassionate and friendly.
If it’s under-active: you tend to be cold and unfriendly.
If it’s over-active: you tend to be excessively loving it might turn out to be obsession.
The Throat Chakra
The Vishuddhi Chakra is located in the vicinity of the Larynx. It is a chakra of spiritual purification.
This chakra encircles speaking and expressing views.
When the chakra is open, one will express himself easily.
If it is under-active: you tend to be shy.
If you lie often, this chakra can be blocked.
And if it’s over-active: you tend to be talkative. You could turn out be a pretty bad listener.
The Ajna Chakra
It is located at the upper end of the spinal column, at the point of transition from the spine to the brain.
It is considered as third eye or chakra of wisdom.
This chakra deals with insight. When open, one tends to dream a lot.
If it’s under-active: you tend to look up to other people to think for you.
You also tend to be confused and superstitious most of the time.
If it’s over-active: you tend to live in a world imagination all day long.
In the extremes, you could suffer from frequent daydreams or even hallucinations.
The Crown Chakra
It is the seventh chakra.
The crown Chakra is located on the crown of the head beneath the Fontanelle, which is easily visible in a new-born child.
The one who opens this chakra attains unbound peace and tends to be spiritual .
It encircles one’s wisdom and being one with the universe.
When this chakra is open, prejudice disappears from your life, and you will be more aware of the world and it’s connection to yourself.
If it’s under-active: you might not be very spiritual.
If it’s over-active: Spirituality seems to come first in your mind, and if you are really over-active, you may even ignore your basic needs like food and water.
What are chakras and how do they affect health?
In Hinduism and Buddhism, chakras are focal points of energy, or prana, in the body.
The exact number and location depends on the tradition a person follows. Chakra-based therapies may help boost wellbeing.
In Buddhism, there are four primary chakras. In many forms of Hinduism, there are seven.
These seven chakras are believed to be connected via nadi, or energy channels.
The concept of chakras has influenced many holistic medical practices worldwide, including yoga, Ayurveda, and some modern therapies, such as sound baths.
This article reviews more about what chakras are, where they come from, the seven-chakra system, and how they relate to health.
What are chakras?
In Hinduism and Buddhism, chakras are thought of as energy centers in the body.
They mark places where spiritual energies intersect.
The Sanskrit word “chakra” translates to the English word “wheel” In between these wheels are energy channels, which allow the energy to flow from one place to another.
The concept of chakras ties into the early Hindu concepts of a physical body and a subtle body.
While the physical body consists of mass and is visible, the subtle body — which includes the mind and emotions — consists of energy and is invisible.
In this system, spiritual or psychic energy from the subtle body influences the physical body and vice versa.
This means that the status of a person’s chakras can shape their overall health and well-being.
Where are the chakras?
Typically, people believe that the chakras exist along the spinal column, from the head to the base of the spine.
The number of chakras varies depending on the tradition a person follows.
In Buddhism, there are four primary chakras.
There are usually seven in Hinduism.
Other traditions hold that there are thousands of energy centers but a few are the most important.
In the West, the most well-known model is the seven-chakra system.
What is the origin of chakras?
The earliest written record of chakras comes from the Vedas, which are ancient Indian texts that describe the philosophy of yoga.
The precise age of the Vedas is unknown, but they are thousands of years old.
Over time, the concept of chakras evolved, influencing various Hindu and Buddhist traditions and healing therapies.
They belong to a set of beliefs known collectively as Tantra.
In the early 20th century, European spiritualists and occultists began publishing books about aspects of Tantra, including chakras.
Today, these books are the basis of the Western understanding of chakras.
The association between chakras and the colors of the rainbow appears to have come from Western thinkers of the 20th century.
Since then, chakras have also become associated with different:
- metals
- astrological signs
- foods or herbs
- crystals or minerals
- tarot cards
Some refer to this relatively new way of thinking about chakras as the Western chakra system.
It has gone on to influence various New Age alternative health practices, such as crystal healing and homeopathy.
The seven chakras
Hindu philosophy identifies seven primary chakras and many more minor chakras. The major ones include:
- Muladhara (root chakra): This chakra is at the bottom of the spine, between the anus and genitals. It purportedly influences the basic urges of sex, food, sleep, and self-preservation.
- Svadhisthana (sacral chakra): Located at the pelvis, this chakra influences the regulation of emotions and desires.
- Manipura (navel chakra): This chakra is just below the navel. Strength in this chakra aids digestion and the ability to process life’s experiences.
- Anahata (heart chakra): This chakra is located at the heart, and its purpose is to help a person connect with unconditional love.
- Vishuddha (throat chakra): Positioned at the pit of the throat, this chakra’s function is authenticity and personal expression.
- Ajna (third eye chakra): Located between the eyebrows, this chakra is a seat of inner knowledge and consciousness.
- Sahasrara (crown chakra): Located just above the top of the head, this chakra’s role is to promote a more enlightened approach to the world.
Chakras and health
People who believe in chakras argue that imbalances in an individual’s chakras may undermine their health.
For example, an imbalance in the navel chakra may affect digestion or a person’s ability to manage emotions.
Depending on the philosophical and spiritual orientation of the practitioner, a person may promote healthier chakra energy with a range of chakra-based therapies, such as:
- Ayurvedic medicine, which may make dietary and other lifestyle recommendations
- yoga, including the use of specific yoga positions to promote energy flow
- meditation to visualize unblocking the chakras
- Reiki, which is a form of energy healing
CHAKRAS, COLORS & HINDU GODS: A CLOSER LOOK AT THE HINDU SYSTEM
The word chakra is derived from Sanskrit, meaning “wheel”, or “circle of life”.
They consist of seven main energy centers found in the body and is associated with a variety of colors, symbols and Hindu gods. In Hinduism, the continuous flow of energy throughout the chakras is referred to as “Shakti”.
The concept of chakra was first mentioned in the ancient sacred Hindu text, The Vedas, but also plays an important role in Tibetan Buddhism.
Chakras are located along the spine and influence different nerve systems, organs and glands with their energy.
These vortexes of energy are originated from Brahman, according to Hindu beliefs.
It is presumed that as Shakti flows from one chakra point to another it exhausts the body and soul.
The energy that becomes coiled in the base of the spine (root chakra) is called Kundalini.
The spiritual goal is to awaken and release the Kundalini in order to attain a greater consciousness and merge it with the Infinite consciousness of Brahman.
Through meditation and Kundalini yoga, the energy can pass back up the spine until it reaches the top of the head (crown chakra), producing a mystical experience.
“Kundalini yoga consists of active and passive asana-based kriyas, pranayama, and meditations which target the whole body system (nervous system, glands, mental faculties, and chakras) to develop awareness, consciousness and spiritual strength.” –Yogi Bhajan
Chakras & Colors:
1. Muladhara: The Root Chakra – located at base of the spine. Associated with red. It affects your confidence, trust in life and self-esteem. It is from here that our base instincts arise; the need to survive or the fight or flight reflex. Hindu God –Lord Ganesh and Brahman.
2. Swadhisthana: The Sacral Chakra – located below the navel. Associated with orange. It affects sexual desires, attractions and the need to procreate. Other emotions, such as, anger, fear and hatred stem from this chakra. Hindu God –Lord Vishnu
3. Manipura: The Solar Plexus Chakra – located at the bottom of the breast bone. Associated with bright yellow. It affects the lower back, digestive system, liver and gall bladder. Feelings that are associated with this chakra, include, determination, self-acceptance and will power. It is here that instinctual emotion translates to more complex emotions. Hindu God –Maharudra Shiva
4. Anahata: The Heart Chakra – located at the center of the chest. Associated with green. Feelings associated with this location are love, compassion, emotional security, forgiveness and loving kindness. Hindu God –Ishvara
5. Vishuddha: The Throat Chakra – located at the throat, over the larynx. Associated with blue. It is the source of our ability to communicate, and express creativity and individuality. Hindu God – Sadashiva
6. Ajna: The Third Eye Chakra – located at front of the head in between eye brows. Associated with indigo. The mind, as the sense organ and action organ are associated with this chakra. Feelings associated with this chakra are spirituality, awareness, and sense of time. Hindu God -Ardhanarishvara –an androgynous form of Hindu god Lord Shiva and Parvati, also known as Devi and Shakti
7. Sahasrara: The Crown Chakra – located at the top of the head. Associated with purple, or gold. It is from this chakra that all others emanate. It relates to pure consciousness. In Hindu literature, it is known as “the supreme center of contact with God.” Here liberated ones abide in communion with the Self. Hindu God – Lord Shiva
A Beginner’s Guide To The 7 Chakras + How To Unblock Them
Ever wondered what the seven chakras of the body are and what they mean?
We have the answers! “Chakra” is a Hindu word to describe an energy center in the body.
If you’ve ever felt mentally tired but physically well, encountered newfound energy through rage, or just wanted to give someone the biggest hug in the world, then you have experienced chakras in you.
While these abstract concepts are hard to pin down in English-speaking Western culture, these centers have a name and a home in the Indian world.
Chakras are located at key physical points in the body, forming an undulating chain of spaces that link together right down our spine.
According to Hindu thought, the energy generated at these chakra points moves around the body.
Unbalanced chakras prevent energy from moving around in equilibrium.
This wisdom is not just limited to India though.
We express it in English idioms sometimes.
For example, when something makes you feel disgust and impotence, you say “it made me sick to my stomach.” Guess where the chakra that has to do with personal power is: the solar plexus, that is, around where your stomach and viscera are.
Chakras aren’t good or bad, they just are.
They are part of you. Each one can be expressed positively or negatively, the result of either too much (bottled up) energy or too little (a chakra you don’t connect with).
The goal is to bring them all into balance so that energy flows through you as a whole, coordinated being.
Exploring the Seven Chakras of the body
You don’t have to be Hindu to tap into this wisdom. You too can connect your physical self to your emotional, mental and spiritual sides.
Let’s take a look:
The Root Chakra (Hindu name: Muladhara)
The locus of your vital energy is found at the perianal area at the base of your spine. When you sit down, that spot between your “sit” bones is your foundation; it keeps you stable.
This bright red, raw energy moves down through your legs and feet to root you to the fundamentals of life itself: security, stability, survival, will, trust and vibrancy.
The Sacral Chakra (Hindu name: Svadhishthana)
This vivid orange center is your hub for creativity, sensuality, pleasure and union.
The Western world would associate this open space with a woman’s uterus, but this center doesn’t only exist for women.
All humans share this space, which can be activated by moving your hips in a fluid, circular motion.
In other words: dance!
The Solar Plexus Chakra (Hindu name: Manipura)
This energy center is found at the nexus of your diaphragm where your esophagus meets your stomach. Bright yellow symbolizes personal power, responsibility, self-discipline and self-esteem.
Manifestations of an imbalanced third chakra are manipulation, judgment and control issues.
The Heart Chakra (Hindu name: Anahata)
Present, direct and pulsing green, the heart chakra is self-explanatory: no hiding, no games, just genuine acceptance.
This pure energy center extends out from the heart and reaches through your arms and fingertips to express love, empathy, joy and compassion, with anxiety and jealousy on the flip side.
A healthy heart is a big open space and there can never be too little room for one more person.
The Throat Chakra (Hindu name: Vishuddha)
Bright blue, this narrow passageway between the heart and the mind is the perfect link between feeling and thinking.
The throat is where expression thrives.
It is the home of communication. Signs of an unhealthy fifth energy center are withdrawal or arrogance.
The Third Eye Chakra (Hindu name: Ajna)
The marketing world has tapped into Hindu wisdom by acknowledging that the color of trust and calm is a deep blue: indigo.
This energy center is the key spot where your intuition, knowledge, foresight, imagination and clarity reside, as well as assumption.
This chakra connects to the energy center that links you to the rest of the universe:
The Crown Chakra (Hindu name: Sahasrara)
Royal purple is the color associated with this chakra, which should come as no surprise, since this is the center for spiritual connection.
When you connect with this center, you access the divine understanding that we are actually part of something much bigger than ourselves.
Indian thought closely links the physical body that you can see and feel to the non-physical body of energy and chakras.
One way to work on balancing physical and spiritual energy is through practicing yoga.
The next time you’re striking a pose, think about what centers you might be activating.
Listen to your body as it asks you to move or to stop. See what you can learn from your spiritual and emotional body as you open up to a new source of wisdom in your life.
If you´ve enjoyed this article, do not hesitate to read our articles about yoga benefits and meditation benefits.
A Beginner’s Guide To The 7 Chakras + How To Unblock Them
The seven chakras are the main energy centers of the body.
You’ve probably heard people talk about “unblocking” their chakras, which refers to the idea that when all of our chakras are open, energy can run through them freely, and harmony exists between the physical body, mind, and spirit.
Chakra translates to “wheel” in Sanskrit, and you can imagine them like wheels of free-flowing positive energy.
What are chakras?
The name “chakra” is the Sanskrit word for “wheel.”
In yoga, chakras are used to describe the way energy “moves” throughout the body.
Each of the seven chakras (described below) are said to correlate with different abilities, expressions, and types of health.
Root Chakra (Muladhara)
The Muladhara, or root chakra, represents our foundation.
On the human body, it sits at the base of the spine and gives us the feeling of being grounded.
When the root chakra is open, we feel confident in our ability to withstand challenges and stand on our own two feet.
When it’s blocked, we feel threatened, as if we’re standing on unstable ground.
Location: Base of spine, in tailbone area
What it controls: Survival issues such as financial independence, money, and food
Mantra: “I can’t grow from an unsteady foundation.”
Color: Red
Element: Earth
Stone: Hematite
Yoga pose: Warrior I
When it develops: 1-7 years old
Sacral Chakra (Swadhisthana)
The Swadhisthana, or sacral chakra, helps inform how we relate to our emotions and the emotions of others.
It also governs creativity and sexual energy.
Those with a blocked sacral chakra could feel a lack of control in their lives.
Location: Lower abdomen, about 2 inches below the navel
What it controls: Your sense of abundance, well-being, pleasure, and sexuality
Mantra: “I always honor others but not before myself.”
Color: Orange
Element: Water
Stone: Tiger’s Eye
Yoga pose: Bound Angle Pose
When it develops: 8-14 years old
Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipura)
The third chakra, the solar plexus chakra, speaks to your ability to be confident and in control of your life.
Think back to the last time you had butterflies or felt a pit in the stomach:
That’s the Manipura chakra at work.
If your solar plexus chakra is blocked, you might feel overwhelming amounts of shame and self-doubt.
Those with open sacral chakras are free to express their true selves.
Location: Upper abdomen in the stomach area
What it controls: Self-worth, self-confidence, and self-esteem
Mantra: “Self-love starts when I accept all parts of myself.”
Color: Yellow
Element: Fire
Stone: Amber
Yoga pose: Boat Pose
When it develops: 15-21 years old
Heart Chakra (Anahata)
The Anahata, or heart chakra, is the bridge between the lower chakras (associated with materiality) and the upper chakras (associated with spirituality).
As the name suggests, this chakra can influence our ability to give and receive love—from others and ourselves.
Someone with a blocked heart chakra will have difficulty fully opening up to the people in their life.
If someone’s heart is open, they can experience deep compassion and empathy.
Location: Center of chest, just above the heart
What it controls: Love, joy, and inner peace
Mantra: “When I love myself, loving others comes easily.”
Color: Green
Element: Air
Stone: Rose Quartz
Yoga pose: Camel Pose
When it develops: 21-28 years old
Throat Chakra (Vishuddha)
The Vishuddha, or throat chakra, gives voice to the heart chakra and controls our ability to communicate our personal power.
When it’s functioning at full capacity, it allows us to express ourselves truly and clearly.
Someone with a blocked throat chakra will feel like they have trouble finding the words to say how they truly feel.
Location: Throat
What it controls: Communication, self-expression, and truth
Mantra: “I speak my truth, always.”
Color: Light Blue/Turquoise
Element: Sound/Music
Stone: Aquamarine
Yoga pose: Fish Pose
When it develops: 29-35 years old
Third-Eye Chakra (Ajna)
As we move up the body, we’re getting closer to communion with the divine.
The Anja, or third-eye chakra, controls our ability to see the big picture and connect to intuition.
Think of it as the eye of the soul: It registers information beyond the surface level.
Visions and intuitive hits are not uncommon for someone with an open third-eye chakra.
Location: Forehead between the eyes (also called the Brow Chakra)
What it controls: Intuition, imagination, and wisdom
Mantra: “I am open to exploring what cannot be seen.”
Color: Dark Blue/Purple
Element: Light
Stone: Amethyst
Yoga pose: Child’s Pose
When it develops: 36-42 years old
SPIRITUALITY
The 7 Chakras How To Unblock Them
What are chakras?
The name “chakra” is the Sanskrit word for “wheel.”
In yoga, chakras are used to describe the way energy “moves” throughout the body.
Each of the seven chakras (described below) are said to correlate with different abilities, expressions, and types of health.
- Root Chakra (Muladhara)
The Muladhara, or root chakra, represents our foundation.
On the human body, it sits at the base of the spine and gives us the feeling of being grounded.
When the root chakra is open, we feel confident in our ability to withstand challenges and stand on our own two feet.
When it’s blocked, we feel threatened, as if we’re standing on unstable ground.
Location: Base of spine, in tailbone area
What it controls: Survival issues such as financial independence, money, and food
Mantra: “I can’t grow from an unsteady foundation.”
Color: Red
Element: Earth
Stone: Hematite
Yoga pose: Warrior I
When it develops: 1-7 years old
2. Sacral Chakra (Swadhisthana)
The Swadhisthana, or sacral chakra, helps inform how we relate to our emotions and the emotions of others.
It also governs creativity and sexual energy.
Those with a blocked sacral chakra could feel a lack of control in their lives.
Location: Lower abdomen, about 2 inches below the navel
What it controls: Your sense of abundance, well-being, pleasure, and sexuality
Mantra: “I always honor others but not before myself.”
Color: Orange
Element: Water
Stone: Tiger’s Eye
Yoga pose: Bound Angle Pose
When it develops: 8-14 years old
3. Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipura)
The third chakra, the solar plexus chakra, speaks to your ability to be confident and in control of your life.
Think back to the last time you had butterflies or felt a pit in the stomach: That’s the Manipura chakra at work.
If your solar plexus chakra is blocked, you might feel overwhelming amounts of shame and self-doubt.
Those with open sacral chakras are free to express their true selves.
Location: Upper abdomen in the stomach area
What it controls: Self-worth, self-confidence, and self-esteem
Mantra: “Self-love starts when I accept all parts of myself.”
Color: Yellow
Element: Fire
Stone: Amber
Yoga pose: Boat Pose
When it develops: 15-21 years old
4. Heart Chakra (Anahata)
The Anahata, or heart chakra, is the bridge between the lower chakras(associated with materiality) and the upper chakras (associated with spirituality).
As the name suggests, this chakra can influence our ability to give and receive love—from others and ourselves.
Someone with a blocked heart chakra will have difficulty fully opening up to the people in their life.
If someone’s heart is open, they can experience deep compassion and empathy.
Location: Center of chest, just above the heart
What it controls: Love, joy, and inner peace
Mantra: “When I love myself, loving others comes easily.”
Color: Green
Element: Air
Stone: Rose Quartz
Yoga pose: Camel Pose
When it develops: 21-28 years old
5. Throat Chakra (Vishuddha)
The Vishuddha, or throat chakra, gives voice to the heart chakra and controls our ability to communicate our personal power.
When it’s functioning at full capacity, it allows us to express ourselves truly and clearly.
Someone with a blocked throat chakra will feel like they have trouble finding the words to say how they truly feel.
Location: Throat
What it controls: Communication, self-expression, and truth
Mantra: “I speak my truth, always.”
Color: Light Blue/Turquoise
Element: Sound/Music
Stone: Aquamarine
Yoga pose: Fish Pose
When it develops: 29-35 years old
6. Third-Eye Chakra (Ajna)
As we move up the body, we’re getting closer to communion with the divine.
The Anja, or third-eye chakra, controls our ability to see the big picture and connect to intuition.
Think of it as the eye of the soul: It registers information beyond the surface level.
Visions and intuitive hits are not uncommon for someone with an open third-eye chakra.
Location: Forehead between the eyes (also called the Brow Chakra)
What it controls: Intuition, imagination, and wisdom
Mantra: “I am open to exploring what cannot be seen.”
Color: Dark Blue/Purple
Element: Light
Stone: Amethyst
Yoga pose: Child’s Pose
When it develops: 36-42 years old
7. Crown Chakra (Sahasrara)
The Sahasrara, or crown chakra, the highest chakra, sits at the crown of the head and represents our ability to be fully connected spiritually.
When you fully open your crown chakra—something very few people ever do!—you’re able to access a higher consciousness.
Location: The very top of the head
What it controls: Inner and outer beauty, spiritual connection
Lesson: “I am a vessel for love and light.”
Color: Violet/White
Element: Divine Consciousness
Stone: Clear quartz
Yoga pose: Headstand
When it develops: 43-49 years old
The 7 Chakras: Symbols, Symptoms and Effects
1. Muladhara Chakra – Root Chakra
Symbol: The Root Chakra symbol consists of a 4-petalled lotus flower, a square, and a downward-facing triangle. Each element is said to represent the 4 aspects of the human mind, uniting to form the birth of the human consciousness.
Color: Red
Element: Earth
Location: The Root Chakra also known as the Muladhara Chakra is located at the base of the spine, between the anus and the genitals. It is characterized by the emotions of survival, stability, ambition, and self-sufficiency.
Symptoms of a blocked Root Chakra: When this chakra is out of balance, a person starts feeling unstable, ungrounded, lack of ambition, lack of purpose, fearful, insecure and frustrated.
Signs of a balanced/imbalanced Root Chakra: However, when the Root Chakra is balanced, these are replaced by more positive emotions, and you feel stable, confident, balanced, energetic, independent, and strong.
Mantra: The seed mantra (beej mantra) of Muladhara Chakra is ‘Lam’.
2. Svadhishthana Chakra – Sacral Chakra
Symbol: The symbol for the Svadhishthana Chakra or Sacral Chakra is made up of multiple circles, a crescent moon, and six lotus flower petals. The circles and crescent moon represent the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth, while the 6 petals portray the 6 negative aspects of our nature that we need to overcome to open this chakra.
Color: Orange
Element: Water
Location: The Svadhishthana Chakra, more commonly known as the Sacral Chakra, is located in the lower abdomen, about four fingers below the navel. Its attributes include the basic need for sexuality, as well as creativity and self-worth.
Symptoms of a blocked/imbalanced Sacral Chakra: When the Sacral Chakra is imbalanced, a person may feel emotionally explosive and irritable, sense a lack of energy and creativity, feel manipulative, or obsessed with sexual thoughts.
Signs of a balanced Sacral Chakra: When balanced, it makes one feel more vibrant, happy, positive, satisfied, compassionate, and intuitive.
Mantra: The seed mantra (beej mantra) of Svadhishthana Chakra is ‘Vam’.
3. Manipura Chakra – Solar Plexus Chakra
Symbol: The Solar Plexus Chakra symbol consists of a downward-pointing triangle within a ten-petalled lotus flower. The ten petals symbolize ten negative character traits that we have to conquer, while the triangle is the Agni tattva or fire of kundalini energy which signifies our inner strength.
Color: Yellow
Element: Fire
Location: The Manipura Chakra is located at the solar plexus, between the navel and the bottom of the rib cage. It is characterized by emotions like ego, anger, and aggression.
Symptoms of a blocked/imbalanced Solar Plexus Chakra: An imbalance of the Solar Plexus Chakra can manifest physically as digestive problems, liver problems, or diabetes. On an emotional level, one might struggle with depression, lack of self-esteem, anger, and perfectionism.
Signs of a balanced Solar Plexus Chakra: By balancing this chakra, we feel more energetic, confident, productive, and focused.
Mantra: The seed mantra (beej mantra) of Manipura Chakra is ‘Ram’.
4. Anahata Chakra – Heart Chakra
Symbol: In the Heart Chakra symbol, two triangles intersect to form a yantra which represents the balance of yin and yang, or upward and downward forces. Outside, there is a lotus flower with 12 petals symbolizing the twelve divine qualities associated with the heart.
Color: Green
Element: Air
Location: As the name implies, the Anahata Chakra is located in the heart region. This chakra is the seat of balance, and it is characterized by emotions of love, attachment, compassion, trust, and passion.
Symptoms of a blocked/imbalanced Heart Chakra: When the heart chakra is imbalanced, a person may deal with emotional issues like anger, lack of trust, anxiety, jealousy, fear, and moodiness.
Signs of a balanced Heart Chakra: By harmonizing this energy center, a person begins to feel more compassionate, caring, optimistic, friendly, and motivated.
Mantra: The seed mantra (beej mantra) of Anahata Chakra is ‘Yam’.
5. Vishuddha Chakra – Throat Chakra
Symbol: The symbol of the Throat Chakra consists of a 16-petalled lotus flower surrounding an inverted triangle which holds a circle within. This represents spiritual growth and the purification of the body, mind, and spirit.
Color: Blue
Element: Space
Location: The Visuddha Chakra is located at the base of the throat, coinciding with the thyroid gland. It is associated with inspiration, healthy expression, faith, and the ability to communicate well.
Symptoms of a blocked/imbalanced Throat Chakra: A blockage in the throat chakra may be experienced as timidity, quietness, a feeling of weakness, or the inability to express our thoughts.
Signs of a balanced Throat Chakra: When this chakra is balanced, it enables creativity, positive self-expression, constructive communication, and a sense of satisfaction.
Mantra: The seed mantra (beej mantra) of Vishuddha Chakra is ‘Ham’.
6. Ajna Chakra – Third Eye Chakra
Symbol: The Third Eye Chakra symbol consists of an inverted triangle resting in a circle between two lotus petals. The two petals and downward-facing pyramid both signify wisdom, emphasizing the Third Eye Chakra’s role in our journey to spiritual awareness.
Color: Indigo
Element: None
Location: The Ajna Chakra (pronounced as ‘Agya Chakra’) is located between the eyebrows. Also known as the Third Eye Chakra, it is often used as a focal point during asana practice to develop more concentration and awareness. It is said that meditating upon this chakra destroys the karma of past lives and brings liberation and intuitive knowledge. Its attributes are intelligence, intuition, insight, and self-knowledge.
Symptoms of a blocked/imbalanced Third Eye Chakra: When imbalanced, it may make you feel non-assertive and afraid of success, or on the contrary, it can make you more egotistical. An imbalance can manifest as physical problems like headaches, blurry vision, and eye strain.
Signs of a balanced Third Eye Chakra: When this chakra is active and balanced, a person feels more vibrant and confident, both spiritually and emotionally. In the absence of the fear of death, one becomes his own master and remains free of all attachment to material things.
Mantra: The seed mantra (beej mantra) of Ajna Chakra is ‘Om’.
7. Sahastrara Chakra – Crown Chakra
Symbol: The Crown Chakra symbol is depicted as a ring of a thousand lotus petals surrounding an inverted triangle. This symbolizes the rising of divine energy into the Crown Chakra, bringing spiritual liberation and enlightenment.
Color: Violet White
Element: None
Location: The Sahastrara or Crown Chakra is located at the crown of the head. The seventh chakra is the center of spirituality, enlightenment, and dynamic thought and energy. It allows for the inward flow of wisdom and brings the gift of cosmic consciousness.
Symptoms of a blocked/imbalanced Crown Chakra: When it gets imbalanced, one might suffer from a constant sense of frustration, melancholy and destructive feelings.
Signs of a balanced Crown Chakra: A balanced Crown Chakra promotes spiritual understanding, inner peace and a clear perspective on the world.
Mantra: The seed mantra (beej mantra) of Sahastrara Chakra is ‘Aum’.
Yoga poses to align the Crown Chakra: Balancing Sahasrara Chakra can be done by practicing Headstand (Shirshasana).
Can Chakras influence health?
Chakras are associated with the organs and glands of the particular region where they are located. As such, they have a strong bearing on our health, our mental state, and our relation with others. Based on various factors such as our lifestyle, environment and surroundings, past experiences, etc, the chakras can either be balanced or imbalanced. If a chakra is imbalanced, it goes into either a hypoactive or a hyperactive mode. A hypoactive or blocked chakra’s functioning is either insufficient or reduced. Likewise, a hyperactive chakra means there is too much energy flowing into that particular region, and as such, there is an imbalance in the overall flow of energy throughout the body.
How do I know if my Chakras are blocked?
Since chakras are interrelated, when one of them is imbalanced, it causes a disturbance in the functionality of the other chakras as well. This makes people feel disconnected, anxious, fearful, and it also manifests as health problems in one or more areas of the body.
To function at their best, your chakras need to be balanced. And for this, you need to know what the chakras actually do and what are some of the things you can do to take care of them.
How do Chakras work and why are they important?
The chakras act as distribution centers. They distribute the five pranas to their associated local regions. For example, the root chakra will distribute the ‘apana prana’ to the pelvic region and provide energy for the organs in this region. When a chakra is blocked or not functioning properly, this distribution pattern gets disturbed, and physical or psycho-emotional/energy issues arise.
How to balance your Chakras
Every chakra rotates at a specific frequency and speed. This frequency and speed can change due to various factors like diet, lifestyle, thought patterns, etc. An imbalance starts creating problems with the distribution of the pranas. Imagine what will happen if a 50 watt light bulb starts getting a 500 watt or 10-watt electricity supply! When we speak about balancing or awakening the chakras, we mean bringing them back to their regular speed.
There is no one single method to unblock your chakras, but rather several. The best way to unblock your chakras will be different for everyone, and it’s a matter of trial and error to find out which method works for you. Here are a few popular tools and techniques for chakra cleansing and balancing:
1. Diet
One of the main reasons for an imbalance in the chakras is an imbalance of the five elements in the body. A balanced diet helps to bring balance to the elements of the body.
2. Asanas
Asanas help to stimulate the chakras, and improve their functioning. They also clear the way for the chakras to heal themselves.
3. Breathing
Breathing helps to increase the flow of prana in the body, and removes the stale prana.
4. Meditation
Many practitioners perform meditation to unblock chakras. Chakra meditation calms the mind and helps the practitioner focus energy towards a problematic point in the chakra system.
5. Mudras
Chakra Mudras are hand gestures typically performed in yoga and meditation to focus energy where it’s needed most. To balance the chakras, we balance the element in the body by performing the corresponding mudra.
The 7 Chakras Demystified -Align Mind, Body & Spirit
“Chakra” is a Sanskrit word (discussed in the Vedas – ancient Indian texts dating 1500-1000 BC) meaning wheel, circle, or disc. Our body has 114 chakras yet only 7 Chakras of the body that are advancing alongside the spine, are considered as the foundational chakras. The 7 Chakras symbolize energy centres and correspond to a bundle of nerves, major organs, and areas of our spiritual body that impact our physical and emotional well-being.
The seven chakras of the body are understood to be spinning discs of energy that should be open, aligned, and balanced for they have the vital task of absorbing our vital energy (prana) and redistributing it. For a balanced individual, these 7 chakras deliver an adequate amount of energy to the mind, body, and soul. However, an accident, emotional trauma, stress, or loss can lead to chakra blockage, creating an imbalance in the mind and body.
These seven Chakras of the human body, each have distinct and specific names, meanings, colours, areas on the spine, meditations, stones, elements, health focus, yoga postures to balance etc and they are all explored below:
1. Muladhara Chakra (Root Chakra)
Muladhara chakra represents our foundation. When outbalanced, an individual feels ungrounded, unstable, insecure, fearful, and frustrated with a lack of ambition & purpose. When the root chakra is balanced, these negative emotions are replaced by positive emotions, making you feel stable, confident, balanced, energetic, independent, and strong.
- Location: Base of spine, in tailbone area (between the anus & the genitals)
- Function: Survival, Financial Independence, Stability, Security, Self-confidence
- Beej Mantra: ‘Lam’
- Color: Red
- Element: Earth
- Stone: Hematite
- Yoga posture for Balancing: Virabhadrasana (Warrior Pose), Vrkshasana (Tree Pose), Tadasana (Mountain Pose), Ardha Setu Bandhasana (Half Bridge Pose), Shavasana (Corpse Pose)
- Age it develops: 1-7 years
2. Swadishthana Chakra (Sacral Chakra)
This Chakra helps us understand the way we relate to our & others’ emotions. The sacral chakra also controls sexual energy and creativity.
An individual with a blocked Sacral chakra feels angry, discontented, and emotionally explosive. There’s a sense of lack of energy and creativity, feels manipulative, or obsessed with sexual thoughts. When this chakra is balanced, it makes you more positive, happy, vibrant, compassionate, intuitive, and satisfied.
- Location: Lower abdomen (2-4 fingers below the navel)
- Function: Desire and procreation, sexuality, emotions, pleasure, creativity
- Beej Mantra: ‘Vam’
- Color: Orange
- Element: Water
- Stone: Tiger’s Eye, amber, topaz, opal
- Yoga posture: Kakasana (Crow Pose), Trikonasana (Triangle Pose), Baddha Konasana (Bound Angle Pose)
- Age it develops: 8-14 years old
3. Manipura Chakra (Solar Plexus Chakra)
his Chakra relates to an individual’s ability to be confident, in control of life, have a sense of belonging, and define self-esteem. Imagine a situation when you had butterflies in the stomach, that was your Manipura Chakra at work. When the Solar Plexus chakra is blocked, one feels extreme self-doubt and shame. By balancing this chakra, we feel free to express our true selves, we are more energetic, confident, productive, and focussed.
- Location: Upper abdomen at the solar plexus, between the bottom of the rib cage and navel
- Function: Self-esteem, self-confidence, life awareness, action, power, strength, will, and pleasure
- Beej Mantra: ‘Ram’
- Color: Yellow
- Element: Fire
- Stones: Yellow stones (Amber, Calcite, Citrine, Quartz, and Topaz)
- Yoga posture: Paschimottanasana (Classical Forward Bend), Bhujangasana (Classical Cobra Pose), and Dhanurasana (Bow Pose).
- Age it develops: 15-21 years old
4. Anahata Chakra (Heart Chakra)
This chakra is the bridge between the lower chakras (accredited with materialism) and the upper chakras (associated with spirituality). Anahata Chakra is the seat of balance and if unbalanced an individual may feel emotional issues like anger, lack of trust, anxiety, jealousy, moodiness, and fear. When balanced a person begins to feel more compassionate, caring, optimistic, friendly, and motivated.
- Location: On the cardiac plexus (Heart)
- Function: Love, compassion, wisdom, trust, forgiveness, generosity, openness to others
- Beej Mantra: ‘Yam’
- Color: Green or pink
- Element: Air
- Stone: Rose Quartz
- Yoga pose: Ardha Setubandhasana (Half Bridge Pose), Ushtrasana (Camel Pose), and Matsyasana (Fish Pose).
- Age it develops: 21-28 years old
5. Vishuddha Chakra (Throat Chakra)
The Vishuddha Chakra provides a voice to the Anahata chakra and maintains our ability to communicate our power. Blocking of the throat chakra is experienced as timidity, quietness, and the inability to express our thoughts. When the balance is restored in Throat Chakra, it allows us to express ourselves clearly; it enables positive self-expression, constructive communication, creativity, and a sense of satisfaction.
- Location: Base of the throat, coinciding with the thyroid gland
- Function: Communication, self-expression, and truth
- Beej Mantra: ‘Ham’
- Color: Light Blue and Turquoise
- Element: Sound and Music
- Stone: All blue stones Aquamarine, chalcedon, sodalite, lapis lazuli
- Yoga posture: Sarvangasana (Shoulderstand), Halasana (Plough Pose), and Matsyasana (Fish Pose)
- Age it develops: 29-35 years old
6. Ajna Chakra (Third Eye Chakra)
Ajna chakra aka Third Eye Chakra, is also used as a focal point to develop more concentration and awareness during asana practice. Moving up the body, we’re moving closer to togetherness with the divine. They say meditating upon Ajna chakra destroys the past lives karmas and ushers liberation and intuitive knowledge.
Its attributes are intelligence, insight, self-knowledge, and intuition. If imbalanced, it makes you feel non-assertive and afraid of success; also, it can make you more egoistical and can cause physical problems like headaches, eye strain, seizures, and spinal dysfunctions.
When Ajna chakra is balanced and active, an individual feels more confident and vibrant (spiritually and emotionally).
- Location: Between the eyebrows (third eye) in the middle of the forehead
- Function: Intuition, imagination, foresight, liberation, intellect, clairvoyance,
- Beej Mantra: ‘Om’, ‘Aum’
- Color: purple or indigo
- Element: Light
- Stones: Amethyst, sapphire, fluorite, labradorite, opal, moldavite, zircon
- Yoga pose: Shirshasana (Headstand). Balasana (Child’s Pose)
- Age it develops: 36-42 years old
7. Sahastrara Chakra (Crown Chakra)
The Sahastrara Chakra is the highest Chakra in the human body and it is located at the crown of the head. The seventh chakra is the center of spirituality, dynamic thought, energy, wisdom, and cosmic consciousness.
One undergoes destructive feelings and experiences constant frustration and melancholy if the Sahastrara chakra gets blocked or is imbalanced.
- Location: Above the head
- Function: Spirituality, enlightenment, universal or pure awareness
- Beej Mantra: ‘Om’
- Color: Deep purple, White
- Element: Divine Consciousness
- Stones: Hyaline quartz, diamond
- Yoga Posture: Shirshasana (Headstand)
- Age it develops: 43-49 years old