Introduction to Chakras

Have you ever stepped into a Yoga class and come across the intriguing term "Chakra"? You might have found yourself curious about its significance in relation to various poses and practices. Well, you're in for a treat! In this post, I’ll take you on an enlightening journey through the fascinating world of Chakras, unraveling their mysteries and revealing their profound impact on your well-being. Get ready to discover the energy centers that can elevate your practice and transform your life!

What are Chakras?

The term Chakra comes from Sanskrit (an ancient Indo-Aryan language) and means wheel or disc. It refers to the subtle energy centers in the body often used as focal points during meditation. These centers can be visualized as energy structures similar to discs or flowers located at specific points in the body where multiple Nadis (energetic pathways) intersect. 

In the 1970s, with the advent of Nuclear Evolution, the concept of chakras being in balance or out of balance was introduced. When balanced, life energy can flow through the body's energetic pathways, aiding in our connection to our inner selves and the surrounding world. Imbalances in the chakras can occur due to blockages in the Nadis, leading to various physical, emotional, and mental problems. 

Brief History

Chakras originated from the Vedas, Hindu philosophical texts composed between 1500 and 500 B.C.E. If you're acquainted with the Chakras, you might know the 7 chakra system from Hinduism. However, the original tradition includes various chakra systems. In Buddhism, there are 5 chakras, while other systems have 6, 9, 10, 12, 21, and 108 chakras, depending on the specific text and lineage. Only three chakras are common to all systems: Sacral, Heart, and Crown. 

Given the multitude of systems, we must acknowledge that there isn't a single 'correct' system. Chakras cannot be examined like physical organs as they are not fixed entities. The energy body is a dynamic reality, capable of manifesting various energy centers based on an individual and their selected yogic practice. 

How do they work?

The chakras were originally introduced to humanity to incorporate mantras and deities. The concept involves visualizing a particular Sanskrit syllable within a specific chakra and silently intoning its sound. This practice can lead to spiritual liberation or worldly gains through mystical methods. 

Historically, chakras were utilized in a prescriptive manner. One would imagine subtle energy, composed of colored light and shaped like a spinning wheel, at a specific point in the body, then activate the mantric syllables for a particular purpose. Today, chakras are described more descriptively. The psychological states linked to chakras are modern and Western, initiated by Carl Jung, and are not found in any Sanskrit sources. Most English sources provide the location, color, and characteristics of each chakra as facts, whereas the original Sanskrit texts present them as a specific yogic practice. This explains the numerous Chakra systems available.

7 Chakra System

The 7 Chakra system, which is frequently taught in the West, originates from a treatise written by Pūrnānanda Yati in 1577. It was translated into English by John Woodroffe in 1918. 

In this system, the 7 Chakras extend from the base of the spine to the top of the head. The lower three chakras ground us in the physical world and relate to our basic needs. The upper four chakras foster a stronger connection to our inner self and guide us towards authenticity. 

As stated earlier, in Western traditions, each chakra is linked to a particular body location, a color, and various attributes such as purpose, governed body areas, elements, seed mantras, shapes, energy, and the lesson it imparts. 

7 Chakra System

Chakra Healing

In Ayurveda, Yoga, Buddhism, and Western ‘New Age’ spirituality, engaging with the chakras is believed to enhance mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Numerous healing practices emphasize this health aspect, such as meditation, breathwork, yoga asana, Reiki, Ayurveda, color therapy, and crystal healing, among others. 

Yoga Asana