An Introduction to Chakras

Do you sometimes feel out of touch with reality, out of focus or lacking in energy for no apparent reason? Well you are not alone. Many people have some type of life imbalance whether it is emotional insecurities and worries, physical ailments, relationship problems, difficulties balancing work with play. When our Chakras (or any part of our energy system) are out of balance, our bodies, our life and our emotions are likely to be out of balance as well. If you have recurring anxieties, aches and pains or your energy is up and down, it could be that a Chakra is blocked. Balancing your Chakras can help you deal with life in a more balanced manner.

You may have heard people talk about Chakras but may not have thought about the word or its meaning. Chakras are the energy centres of our body that play an essential role on how the body, heart, mind and spirit function. These focal points impact each body function and all work together so when one Chakra is out of balance this can throw the whole system out of alignment.

The seven main Chakras are the Root, Sacral, Solar Plexus, Heart, Throat, Brow (Third Eye), and Crown.

Root Chakra: Location of this Chakra is at the base of the spine. This Chakra's colour is red and its gems are the Ruby and Garnet. This Chakra is closely linked with instinct, security and the body including the body’s connection with the material world.

Sacral Chakra: Location of this Chakra is just below the navel. This is the chakra for base emotions, sexuality and creativity. It is also associated with the womb, spine and kidneys. We might focus on this Chakra to dispel inhibitions. It can help increase energy when it is balanced. Orange is the Sacral Chakra’s colour and crystal choices include Tiger’s Eye and Carnelian. The Sacral Chakra focuses on the giving and receiving aspect of passion and feelings of physicality such as love, sexuality and pleasure. People might be more connected with this Chakra when they are feeling creative or feeling a sense of goodwill and harmony.

Solar Plexus Charka: Based just above the navel and below the chest area. This Chakra’s colour is yellow and its gems include Amber and Gold. This Chakra is the seat of our power and focuses on self-confidence, mental focus, willpower, authority and self-control.

Heart Chakra: Location is at the centre of the chest. With the Heart Chakra, forgiveness, compassion, and a sense of balance are connected. This Chakra is also based on love and understanding. In addition to these elements, it gives love that is unconditional that goes deeper than the physical perspective. Green is this Chakra's colour and its gems are Emerald and Malachite.

Throat Chakra: Location is at the throat. Communication is the focal point of this Chakra. Its colour is blue. Turquoise and Blue Topaz are gems that help keep this Chakra balanced. The Throat Chakra allows us to gain knowledge and truth. It also promotes wisdom, and how to be honest.

Third Eye Chakra: Location is above the eye area on the forehead. This Chakra is connected to the way that we perceive the world outside of the physical aspect. It also includes perceptions such as our imagination and intuition. Its colour is indigo and the gems Lapiz Lazuli and Sapphire represent this Chakra.

Crown Chakra: Location is just above the top of the head. This Chakra has a connection with inspiration and everything that is encountered with the Higher Self. This Chakra’s colour is white or violet. Crystal choices include: Amethyst, Diamond, and Quartz Crystal are all associated with Crown Chakra. A balanced Crown Chakra can help increase a general sense of well-being and increased self-esteem. This is also the Chakra to focus on for fighting depression.

Chakras can be cleansed and balanced in many ways including meditation, changing your lifestyle, colour therapy or crystal healing therapy.