Yoga and Meditation has introduced most of us to the concept of Chakras present in our body. Mindfulness attained through such healing sessions has brought about the relevance of 7 major Chakras that are symbolic of the flow of energy for optimal biological functioning and spiritual healing. As a part of early Hinduism and Buddhism culture, their balance and imbalance have a pivotal role to play in our emotional, mental and physical wellbeing. But What do Chakras mean? Why is it important to unblock them? Where are Chakras located?
What does Chakras mean?
In Sanskrit, the word Chakras implies “Disk” or “Wheel,” and it refers to the energy centres of our body. Chakras are located along the spinal cord of our body. Their presence corresponds to certain nerve bundles and organs, running along the spine, starting from the base till the top of our head. Each Chakra coincides with a specific gland, therefore diffusing varied energies throughout the body.
What is the Significance of Chakras in our Body?
The shifting nature of Chakras is highly critical of the fact that meditation, nutritional diet and healthy relationships are necessary. When Chakras are in balance, one experiences abundant peace, health, and tranquility. On the other hand, when in imbalance, anxiety, depression, diseases, and other kinds of ailments are frequent. Thus, locating and analyzing Chakras aids in the healing of mind, body, and spirit.
Where are the 7 main Chakras located?
1- Root Chakra (Muladhara Chakra)
The word Muladhara comprises two Sanskrit words, Mula meaning “root” and Adhara which means “base” or “support.” It is the primary Chakra of our body and is located at the base of the spine between the anus and genitals. It is based on the earth element and is known to radiate the color red. It is accountable for creating a firm foundation for all other Chakras. It attributes to the emotions of survival, stability, ambition, and self-sufficiency. When in imbalance, one might feel unstable and ungrounded. While in balance, one might feel confident, energetic, and independent.
2- Sacral Chakra (Svadhishthana Chakra)
Svadhishthana is the second Chakra and it means one’s own abode. It represents personal expansion, exploration of sexuality, deepest desires, and creativity. It is located at the lower belly and inner pelvis, associated with kidneys, bladder, and reproductive organs. It is based on the water element and is known to radiate the color orange. When imbalanced, one might feel emotional irritability or emotionally drowned, lacking energy to be creative, and experiencing frequent sexual desire. When in balance, one might feel positive, vital, satisfied, compassionate, and intuitive.
3- Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipura Chakra)
Manipura means a lustrous or resplendent gem. It is located four fingerbreadths above the navel. It represents power and self-confidence. It is based on the fire element and is known to radiate the color yellow. When in imbalance, one might suffer from problems regarding digestion, liver, and on an emotional level, one might face depression, anger, etc. One feels energetic, confident, and productive when in balance.
4- Heart Chakra (Anahata Chakra)
Anahata in Sanskrit means unbeaten or unstruck. It is located in the center of our chest, in the heart. It is significant of the unbiased and purest form of love, affection, and care for ourselves and others. It is based on the element air and is represented by the color green. When out of balance, one might feel emotional imbalance such as anger, grief, anxiety, jealousy, and moodiness. When in balance, one feels compassionate, encouraged, energized, and optimistic.
5- Throat Chakra (Vishuddha Chakra)
Vishuddha in Sanskrit means detoxification of the body. It is located at the base of the throat, at the center of the larynx. It is represented by the element space and is associated with the bright blue color. It is significant in inspiration, expression, faith, and communication. When in imbalance, one might feel quiet, weak, timid, and unable to express thoughts. When in balance, one feels creative, constructive, and satisfied.
6- Third Eye Chakra (Ajna Chakra)
It is pronounced as agya chakra and in Sanskrit, it means authority or command. It is located between the eyebrows at the center of the head and is considered to be the pivotal point of concentration, consciousness, and intuition. It is free of element and is represented by the color indigo blue. When in imbalance, it promotes egoism, fear of success, and indecisiveness. However, in balance, it promotes harmony, self-control, and utmost consciousness.
7- Crown Chakra (Sahasrara Chakra)
The word Sahasrara in Sanskrit means infinite. It is located at the top of our head. It is free of any element and is represented by the color white or violet. It is the epicenter of spirituality and enlightenment. When in imbalance, it promotes dullness, lethargy, and destructive feelings. On the other hand, in balance, it promotes a deeper sense of self-immersion, wisdom, and awakening.
In entirety, awareness and consideration of these chakras is crucial to attain harmony, peace, and a self-immersive state of being. This not only helps us in appreciating our surroundings but ourselves as well.
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