Throughout the trials and tribulations of daily life, it is important to maintain internal balance in order to be our best selves. Although there are many ways to go about this maintenance, I am a firm believer in the power of the chakra system. In ancient eastern religions, these seven chakras have been referred to as the "basis of human existence". More practically, they are seven key centers of the human body that manifest our psychological, physical, energetic and spiritual conditions. Using these energy centers can be a very useful tool in identifying the cause of internal troubles, and there are many exercises that correspond to each center in order to correct them when they stray from equilibrium. This crash course on the chakra system will provide you with the basic information you need to revitalize your energy flow and optimize your inner harmony.
1. The Root Chakra (Red)
The root chakra is associated with the perineum area of the body at the base of the spine. When in balance, you feel healthy and have a sense of overall security. You are grounded. However, negative feelings involving your basic survival needs, such as family, shelter, and finances, can disrupt this. Additionally, physical ailments residing in this area, along with illnesses such as arthritis and eating disorders, can cause the root chakra to fall into disarray. In order to restore balance, physical exercises such as stomping or squatting can reconnect your body with its innate grounding force. Coloring exercises using the color red are also a good cleansing and soothing remedy for psychological ailments.
2. The Sacral Chakra (Orange)
The sacral chakra is associated with the area about two inches below your navel. When this chakra is in balance, you are successful in relationships of all kinds, actively creative, passionate and ambitious. Physical disruptions affecting the sacral chakra include sexual dysfunctions, urinary infections, and kidney problems. Emotional disruptions consist of trouble expressing emotions and maintaining relationships. To restore harmony, you must honor others as you honor yourself. Pelvic movements like hula-hooping and pelvic thrusts are also worthwhile exercises.
3. The Solar Plexus Chakra (Yellow)
The solar plexus chakra is associated with the stomach area. When in balance, the solar plexus energy promotes strong intuition and positive self-esteem. As self-esteem fades, and we tend to lean towards fear and doubt, the energy becomes disrupted. Physically speaking, an imbalance can be characterized by liver, gallbladder, digestive, pancreatic and colon problems, as well as diabetes. Exercises to restore balance include practicing self-acceptance and implementing healthy lifestyle changes. Belly-dancing and deep breathing into your stomach can also help.
4. The Heart Chakra (Green)
The heart chakra is associated with the heart, chest, breasts, and lungs. When balanced, the heart chakra energy leads to lots of love and happiness in one's life. Disruption of this energy flow can occur as a result of heart disease, lung disease, asthma, respiratory problems and lymphatic system issues. Additionally, loneliness, bitterness, jealousy, and "over-loving" can contribute to energy flow restriction. To restore balance, try swimming, push-ups and hugging yourself. Make a conscious effort to love yourself, love others, trust, show gratitude, and exude compassion.
5. The Throat Chakra (Blue)
The throat chakra, which is obviously located in the throat and neck, is in harmony when one is able to openly, honestly and freely express themselves. Physical ailments such as laryngitis, sore throat, neck pain, ulcers and speech impediments. Emotionally, blockage of the throat chakra can be caused by lying, and by preventing oneself from full expression. Singing, screaming, and gargling with salt water can rectify problems in the throat chakra, as can speaking up and being true to yourself through various modes of communication!
6. The Third Eye Chakra (Indigo)
The third eye chakra is associated with both the forehead region and mental energy that extends beyond us to the "big picture". When operating effectively, the third eye energy should allow one to be focused and have clarity in life. They should be actively receiving information and knowledge. Physical implications inhibiting the third eye's energy include seizures, sinus infections, and headings, while emotional implications consist of poor distinction of reality, paranoia, and bad judgment. Extra, focused mental calculations surrounding daily tasks and activating your aptitude for learning can be useful in restoring energy flow, as well as maintaining overall healthfulness, such as increasing water intake.
7. The Crown Chakra (Violet)
The crown chakra is associated with the top of the head, and the energy emitted from this center allows for intuition and spiritual, natural energy to flow into the body and be distributed among each of the chakras beneath it. When balanced, the entire body feels more at peace and is spiritually awakened, allowing us to trust in ourselves more and the guidance we receive from within. Imbalances include depression, sensitivity to light and the environment, close-mindedness and prejudice. Living mindfully of the world and others, as well and practicing prayer and meditation, can remedy these issues with energy flow.
The chakra system is a very complex one, but it is easy to identify the problems and effectively manage them using simple, accessible tools. Preserving and attending to your internal flow of energy can make conquering external life much easier. The key to balance in all things is achieving balance within oneself first!