(Detail descriptions of each Chakra follow this overview)
Chakras
Introduction and Overview
What is a chakra?
A chakra is a spinning wheel of energy, and in Hindu the word means a “circle of light.” There are 7 main chakras and several minors ones in the body. Each chakra spins at the speed of light with its own vibrational frequency, corresponding to the 7 colours of the spectrum; red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet.
Charkas collect, transform, and distribute energy acting as junctions between the physical body and the energetic or magnetic body (formless).
Energy is channeled to regions of the body by the nadis. There is one central nadi, which travels the same path as our spinal cord called the sushumna. The two other significant nadis are the ida & pingala (see below), which travel along side the sushumna in a criss-crossed fashion. Where these two nadis intersect, a chakra is created. Estimates on the amount of nadi channels that exist in body range from 75,000 upwards to 300,000.
“From the great spiral galaxies, thousands of light years across, to the billions of atoms swirling in a grain of sand, the universe is composed of spinning wheels of energy. Flowers, tree trunks, planets, and people — each made of tiny wheels turning inside, riding upon the great wheel of the Earth spinning in its orbit through space. A fundamental building block of nature, the wheel is the circle of life flowing through aspects of existence. At the inner core of each of us spin seven wheel-like energy centers called chakras.” From “Wheels of Life” by Anodea Judith
Chakras and the Physical Body (Anatomy)
The 7 main chakras correspond with many of the main plexus, where our nerves collect at the spinal column, and they correlate with many of the glands of the endocrine system, (a system which secretes hormones directly into the bloodstream to regulate the body).
The energy flowing in the nadis act similarly to the electrical and chemical signals that travel to and from our brain via our nervous system. However, they are not the same system. Nadis are subtle energy channels of prana, life force, and can be thought of as conduit for consciousness. The main nadi associated with the right side of our body, and our left brain is called the Pingala. Pingala means orange or tawny coloured. It represents the masculine, and in Chinese philosophy it would be called the Yang element. The Pingala has a positive charge. The Ida nadi generates on the left side of our body, it is associated with our right brain and our feminine or Yin qualities. Ida means moon and it holds a negative charge.
“Paramhans Swami Maheshwarananda describes a chakra as:
…[a] powerhouse in the way it generates and stores energy, with the energy from cosmos pulled in more strongly at these points. The main nadis, Ida, Pingala and Shushumna (sympathetic, parasympathetic, and central nervous system) run along the spinal column in a curved path and cross one another several times. At the points of intersection they form strong energy centers known as chakras. “ Wikipedia
Imagine the two channels climbing up the spine, crossing and then looping back towards each other as a representation of the Shakti or Kundalini (serpent) energy. This imagery is not only familiar in Hindu and Indian texts but we’ve come to associate it with health in Western medicine, think of the “rod of Asclepius,” (pictured here) used by health organizations as their symbol.
History
The wheel or chakra is a sacred symbol. Vishnu, one of the most important Hindu gods, known as the ‘Preserver of the universe,’ has 4 arms, one holding a chakra (disc), and the others a lotus, a club, and a conch shell.
The idea of the chakras first appeared in written form in the Vedas, which are the oldest written tradition of India and the root of Hinduism. The Vedas were largely composed between 2000-600 BC. Many believed they are the creation of Indo-European invaders known as the Aryans, who arrived in the Indus valley on chariots. The original meaning of the word chakra (cakra) is wheel.
The chakras and their significance were later developed in the Upanishads around 600 AD and again explored in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (approx. 200BC).
The chakra system has become an integral part of the Tantric teachings. The Tantrics believe that the chakras receive, assimilate, and transmit Shakti (the creative energy of the universe) on various levels of experience and consciousness. The Tantric philosophy rose as a challenge to the previous Yogic traditions of the Vedas and Patanjali. While it is difficult to place exact timing, historians date the beginnings of Tantra between 500-1000 AD. The Tantrics developed the idea that being human is a divine gift, to be embraced and celebrated. Earlier traditions saw spirit and the body as two separate states, always attempting to rise above this world which only produced suffering to enlightenment in the spirit realm. The non-dualistic thinking of the Tantrics has revolutionized Yogic philosophy. Tantric philosophy in the West is often only associated with a sexual tradition and while it does put sexuality in a sacred context, the Tantric teachings are very extensive and deal with all aspects of life.
How can our awareness of the chakras help us in everyday life?
“Butterflies in our stomach, frogs in our throat, pounding in our heart, or the experience of orgasm — these are all manifestations of the presence of chakras in our body.”From “Wheels of Life” by Anodea Judith
Free flowing energy creates health & vitality. Yogis believe that our basic physical and mental health depends on the functionality of the chakras as they “manage” our energy.
When they lack full vibrancy and are impaired our physical and mental health will suffer.
The chakras allow energy to flow but they can become blocked by life events. Each of the 7 chakras are related to particular functions on the physical and psychological level. For example, people who feel confused, or perhaps very fearful may have a depleted Root (Muladhara) chakra. On the other hand if they are overly possessive, and controlling it may mean that energy from the Root chakra needs to be released as it might be blocked. Physical aliments like chronic lower back pain or sciatica can also benefit from balancing the Root chakra energy.
Therefore, learning to become aware of the chakras and unlocking a “blocked” chakra or balancing a chakra, could be the key creating a healthier life for body, mind, & spirit.
“The study of the chakras is a part of many philosophical and spiritual traditions, as well as many therapies and disciplines. In eastern traditions, the theory of chakras is a central part of the Hindu and Buddhist tantra, and they play an important role in attaining deep levels of realization. Yoga, Pranayama, Acupuncture, Shiatsu, Tai Chi and Chi Kung focus on balancing the energetic nadis or energy meridians which are an integral part of the chakra system.
In the West, the subtle energy of the chakras is explored through practices such as aromatherapy, mantras, Reiki, hands-on healing, flower essences, radionics, sound therapy, colour/light therapy, and crystal/gem therapy.” Wikipedia
How can we cultivate a greater awareness of the chakras?
A full awaking and unblocking of the kundalini energy and the chakras needs the guidance of a trained teacher. However, we can turn our awareness towards theses energy centres by concentrating on them, using visualization, and breathing techniques to safely improve their function. The physical practice of Hatha Yoga is one of the most empowering ways to access the chakras. Along with the asanas, (poses) which help draw energy to and from them, certain pranayama (breathe work) practices and mediation can assist in developing a greater awareness, leading to a healthier flow of energy.
Muladhara / Root Chakra
It is the seat of our security and supplies us with our most basic and instinctual survival skills. It also resides over our earthy desires to possess, acquire, hoard and compete. Thus all our basic fears and insecurities stem from this chakra. When it is balanced we feel calm, secure, and connected to the earth We also feel grounded with ourselves, and have no dependence on external objects for our sense of security. We feel confident when energy flows freely in this chakra and we feel anxious and worried when it is blocked. Energy flowing freely through the Muladhara is key to our physical and emotional abundance. One of its greatest messages is to listen to the wisdom of our bodies.
Location: Base of the spine, place where the sushumna originates and the kundalini resides around the root chakra.
Colour – Red
Element – Earth
Purpose – Foundational / stabilizing
Mantra – Lam
Related to sense of smell
When in balance, a person has good health, is well grounded, comfortable in their body, trusting and relaxed.
If chakra is overly stimulated a person can be too possessive / grasping.
If chakra is depleted a person can be fearful, ungrounded.
How to bring the chakra back into balance?
Reconnect with your body, yoga especially hip openers, exercise, restful sleep, gardening, pottery or clay work, foot massage.
Symbols – 4 petals, square with triangle facing down. Bija (seed) & the elephant for strength and stability.
Deities – Brahma & Goddess Dakini
Yin – Chinese traditions associated with Kidney Bladder & Small Intestines (and their meridians)
Svadhisthana – sacral chakra
Svadhisthana means “one’s own abode.” This chakra is connected to our need for social, emotional, and sexual expression and gratification. It relates to your right to feel and is a source of creative and sexual energy. When energy is flowing in this charka we feel unlimited. We are able to problem solve and creative expression comes effortlessly. When this chakra is balanced we have a healthy sense of I, with the desire to follow our own unique path, “You are totally unique, just like everyone else.” The element associated with this centre is water signifying the need to learn to go with the flow. When the chakra is healthy we value our own opinion and make decisions without fearing what others think. When the chakra is blocked, we can give way to uncertainty and indecision, even feelings of jealousy, anger, or guilt. The second chakra connects us to others through feeling, desire, sensation and movement and it enriches our lives with a sense of fluidity, grace, depth of feeling, sexual fulfillment, and the ability to accept change.
Location: Just above the genitals in the lower abs, inline with the sacral plexus
Colour – Orange
Element – Water
Purpose – Movement & Connection
Mantra – Vam
Related to sense of taste
When in balance, a person has the ability to experience pleasure, is nurturing to others and themselves, possess emotional intelligence (not too moody) and is graceful.
If chakra is overly stimulated a person can be manipulating & controlling.
If chakra is depleted a person can be too co-dependent.
How to bring the chakra back into balance?Hot aromatic baths, massage, pedicures, embracing sensations like different foods, explore new experiences with your senses, ie fresh flowers in the house, aromatherapy, taking the time to watch a sunrise or sunset, visiting an art gallery.
Symbols – 6 petals, symbol of fertility: an aquatic being, looking like a crocodile and the crescent moon representing water
Deities – Vishnu & Goddess Rakini
Yin – Chinese traditions associated with Kidney, Bladder & Small Intestines (and their meridians)
Manipura – solar plexus chakra
Manipura means “bright shiny gem” or “city of shining jewels.”
This chakra is associated with the element of fire! It rules our individual power, self esteem and vitality. The message or lessons learned surrounding this centre come from the right to be ourselves, and to honour oneself. It also rules our metabolism. When healthy this chakra brings us energy, effectiveness, spontaneity and non-dominating power. When energy in this centre is blocked people can seem self absorbed, have an angry disposition and overly ambitious. If depleted people display subservient behaviour and low self esteem. The manipura is the seat of our will power and can be a place of transformation; breaking the bonds of the ego to experience a deeper connection with our true selves.
Location: The naval, inline with the solar plexus.
Colour – Yellow
Element – Fire
Purpose – Transformative
Mantra – Ram
Related to our vision / sight
When in balance, a person is responsible, reliable, confident and has a warm personality.
If chakra is overly stimulated a person can be self-absorbed.
If chakra is depleted a person feel disliked with poor self worth.
How to bring the chakra back into balance?
Taking classes, reading informative books, mind puzzles, risk taking, ab exercises, deep relaxation and sunshine
Symbols – 10 petals, symbol of Ram, fiery energy
Deities – Rudra & Goddess Lakini
Yin – Chinese traditions associated with Stomach, spleen, gall bladder & liver
Anahata / Heart chakra
Anahata means “unhurt” or “not struck.“ This chakra relates to our right to be loved and is connected to the element of air symbolizing equilibrium. One who has energy freely flowing in the Anahata is compassionate, loving, peaceful, and balanced. This chakra is associated with our circulatory systems, our blood, oxygen and heart. It is said to be the integrating chakra as it lies in the middle drawing the opposites of mind/body, male/female, ego/unity together. If blocked a person can display poor emotional boundaries and if depleted one can seem ruthless and cold. It is related to our feelings of self acceptance and when healthy allows us to love deeply and have a sense of peace and centredness.
Location: centre of the chest, base of the heart
Colour – Green
Element – Air
Purpose – Love & balance
Mantra – Yum
Related to sense of touch
When in balance, a person is loving, compassionate and peaceful.
If chakra is overly stimulated a person can be inappropriately emotionally expressive.
If chakra is depleted a person can be cold and have difficulty feeling emotion.
How to bring the chakra back into balance?
Taking walks in nature, time with family and friends, journaling and breathing exercises.
Symbols – 12 petals, black antelope a symbol of swiftness
Deities – Isha & Goddess Kakini
Yin – Chinese traditions associated with the heart & pericardium meridians.
Vishuddha – Throat chakra
Vishuddha means “pure” or “purified.” The throat chakra is connected to our ability to communicate and express ourselves. It relates to our right to be heard and to speak. When in balance a person is a good listener and can clearly 
communicate his or her ideas. This chakra is also associated with our ability to surrender our will to the divine. It is the first of the 3 “higher” chakras deeply connected to our spirituality and faith. Therefore, if depleted a person can lack faith and be unable to express themselves. In the extreme, when over stimulated a person can be prone to hurtful speech and a poor listener. This chakra is related to our respiratory system and our auditory sense, therefore one of the most helpful ways to keep it in balance is to sing! Practicing awareness of our words, choosing them wisely is another way to help maintain free flowing energy in this centre. When strong and well balanced we can express our truths without concern of criticism. We experience our world from this centre through the vibrations of sound such as music and language.
Location: throat
Colour – blue
Element – ether
Purpose – Communication
Mantra – Hum
Related to our auditory sense
When in balance, a person is a good listener and can clearly communicate.
If chakra energy is in excess a person will be speak using hurtful words and will be a poor listener.
If chakra is depleted a person can lack faith and be unable to express themselves.
How to bring the chakra back into balance?
Sing! Seek out meaningful conversations.
Symbols – 16 petals, with white elephant symbolizing pure strength
Deities – Ardhanarishvara ( Shiva and his consort Parvati) & Goddess Shakini
Yin – Chinese traditions associated with the lung meridian.
Ajna – Third Eye Chakra
Ajna means to “command.” This chakra is related to our ability to perceive and connect to our intuition. One whose third eye chakra is in balance has a desire to seek the truth and yearns to recognize unity in diversity. This energy centre is related to our insight, psychic abilities and quest for self-reflection. When healthy this chakra allows us to “see the big picture.” It is associated with a sense of individuality that knows it is part of something greater. Meditation is one of the strongest tools to keep this energy centre in balance as is star gazing! 
Location: between the eyes, middle of forehead
Colour – indigo
Element – light
Purpose – Intuition
Mantra – Aum
Related to our ability to perceive light, recognize pattern and seek the truth.
When in balance, a person is perceptive and has the ability to visualize.
If chakra energy is in excess a person will be overly intellectual and analytical.
If chakra is depleted a person can find it difficult to be clear in thought.
How to bring the chakra back into balance?
Mediation and star gazing!
Symbols – two white petals, said to represent the psychic channels, Ida and Pingala, which meet here with the central Sushumna nadi (channel) before rising to the crown chakra, Sahasrara. Written upon them in white are the letters ‘Ham’ on the left petal, and ‘ksham’ on the right petal, representing Shiva and Shakti, respectively
Deities – Parama, Shiva & Goddess Hakini
Yin – Chinese traditions associated with the governor vessels & the urinary bladder.
Sahasrara – Crown Chakra
Sahasrara means “ thousand fold lotus petaled flower.” This chakra is located at the top of the head and is our connection to pure Consciousness. It is related to our desire to know the essence of ourselves . One who has balance in this energy centre is spiritually connected and has an open mind. This chakra is related to living in the present moment with trust that the universe is unfolding in the most evolutionary way. Connection to this chakra allows one to be aware of oneness, remembering that one is spirit in disguise. This chakra brings us knowledge, wisdom, understanding, spiritual connection and bliss.
Location: crown of the head
Colour – violet
Element – thought
Purpose – Understanding
Mantra – Aum
Related to our ability to connect to Consciousness
When in balance, a person is open minded and connected to spirit.
If chakra energy is in excess a person will be an egomaniac, like an cult leader
If chakra is depleted a person will have no spiritual connection or inspiration
How to bring the chakra back into balance?
Focus on dreams, writing down visions, insights, ideas and intentions.
Symbols – thousand fold lotus petaled flower
Sources:
Anodea Judith, “Wheels of Life” (Highly recommend for a deeper study)
Anodea Judith, “Eastern Body Western Mind” (Amazing insights especially if you are interested in Western psychology)
Beryl Bender Birch, “Power Yoga” (Short overview, with great emphasis on anatomy)
Carolyn Myss, “Anatomy of Spirit” (Amazing read, linking the Eastern Chakras with Christian and Jewish philosophies, powerful book pertaining to healing)
Chris Chavez, Notes from Teacher Training (My own notes – good luck trying to read them)
Deepak Chopra, “The 7 Spiritual Laws of Yoga” (Beautiful overview of Yoga in general)
Georg Feuerstein, “The Yoga Tradition” (For the academic!)
John Friend, “Anusara Teacher’s Training Manual” (I have both of these if you are interested in exploring the Anusara teachings, which are grounded in Tantric philosophy more deeply)
John Friend, “Anusara Master Immersion Manual” (For the academic)
Mahan Kirn Kaur Khalsa, “Bound Lotus, An Instructional Manual” (Based on Kundalini Yoga – very inspiring)
Ray Long, MD, FRCSC, “The Key Muscles of Yoga” (For the fellow anatomy geeks, great graphics too)
Sarah Powers, “Insight Yoga” (Beautiful introduction to Yin Yoga, Sarah weaves Chinese & Indian traditions together in a magical way)
Wikipedia (Always verify!)
