What are the 7 Chakras and how do they affect your health?

Eastern philosophy, particularly Yoga and Buddhism, incorporate Chakras into their understanding of the human body. The word Chakra means “wheel” and represents life force energy centres where energy flows through and leaves the body. The Chakras help make up our astral bodies which are like our own magnetic field that affects our physical body and surrounds us in a field of protective energy. There are 7 Chakras in the human body; each one is associated with specific organs and glands that they affect depending on the quality and health of our energetic field in that area and as a whole. Each Chakra is also associated with a colour and runs along your spinal column. The following is a brief description of each Chakra and how each affects your body, mind and spirit:

Root Chakra – situated at the base of your spine, specifically in the area known as the perineum; the root Chakra’s essence is material manifestation, grounding and connection to the earth. Colour: red.

Sacral Plexus Chakra – situated an inch and half below your belly button, this chakra corresponds with your emotions, sexuality, the cultivation and storing of your life force energy. Colour: orange.

Solar Plexus Chakra – this chakra is usually situated midway between your belly button and physical solar plexus. It is interesting to note that with some people this Chakra is positioned higher; it has been said that the location of your solar plexus chakra relates to how spiritually developed you are. Associated with the will, ego and central nervous system, this Chakra is very important for self-identity. Colour: yellow.

Heart Chakra – situated in the middle of the chest, and could be the most important chakra due to the fact that it is the middle energy centre and balances your whole body. It also balances love/hate, material and spiritual and also, once cultivated, leads to the achievement of a high level of peace. Colour: green.

Throat Chakra – positioned behind your throat and representing communication, the glands in that area and the functioning of your teeth, mouth and ears. The throat chakra is activated by the colour blue.

Third Eye Chakra – positioned mid-way between your eyes or sometimes a little higher. Your third eye activates your intuitive psychic abilities, connection to the divine and controls your mental concentration. Colour: Violet or purple.

Crown Chakra – situated at the top of your head, the crown Chakra activates your connection to the universe. The crown chakra can also be a balancing agent, and it is usually perceived as white or transparent.

The ancients have long been aware of these energy centres and the benefits of understanding them for meditation and healing. There are many complementary Chakra and energy healing practices available to help you improve your wellbeing. You should consider further study into this subject for your own wellness and spiritual development. Simply ask your local healer or search the internet for more information.