What are Chakras?- Chakras are a 7 equal centers of energy that lie on our bodies mid-line. They govern our psychological properties, the lower chakras are more instinctive while the higher chakras are more our mental side.
First Chakra- The Muladhara or Root chakra is located at the base of our spine at the coccyx and associated with the color red.This chakra, that connects to the Earth, gives us vital information about whether actions we are considering will nourish us or pose a threat, as well as our basic survival needs and our sense of belonging. When flowing freely we feel secure and confident. If this chakra is blocked or under-active you may be subject to anemia, depression, lower back pain, sciatica, anxiety, frequent colds as well as cold hands and cold feet. There are many ways to stimulate this chakra such as physical exercise, restful sleep, gardening, Red gems, red food & drink, and using red oils like ylang ylang and sandalwood.
Second Chakra- Svadhisthana or Spleen chakra is found below the navel in the lower abdomen and is represented by the color orange. Creativity, feelings, and birth (not just as in newborns but as ourselves, ideas, and aspects) When this chakra is healthy we are tapped into a higher power that boosts creative energy. A blocked or under-active Shadhisthana can bring depression, lower back pain, high susceptibility to alcohol and drug abuse, eating disorders, impotency, asthma, and urinary problems. Engagement in water aerobics, embracing sensations, use of hot aromatic bath salts, orange food & drink, or wearing the color orange, or the use of orange oils like melissa all work as excellent stimulates the cure a congested Shadhisthana chakra.
Third Chakra- The Manipura or Solar Plexus chakra is located above the navel in the stomach area and is linked to the color yellow. Self esteem, sense of personal power, self control, and humor stem from this chakra. When active and healthy we are confident in ourselves, intentions, and our desires. However when blocked poor memory , frustration, feeling powerless, ulcers, constipation, nervousness, hypoglycemia, and toxicity are sure to ensue. To cleanse this chakra reading infromative books, taking classes, doing mind puzzles, detoxification programs, eating or drinking yellow foods and liquids, wearing the color yellow, and the use of yellow oils like lemon or rosemary are advised.
Fourth Chakra- Anahata or Heart chakra is symbolized by the color green and is located in the center of the chest. Love, compassion, forgiveness, and acceptance flow from the Anahata. When open and free we will feel connected and close to everyone in our lives. When blocked we will feel lonely and isolated, as well as several imbalances like heart and breathing disorders, chest pain, high blood pressure, muscular tension, and immune system problems. To cure a sick Anahata you should go on nature walks, spend time with family and loved ones, consume green food & drink, green gemstones, wearing the color green, and using green oils like eucalyptus or pine.
Fifth Chakra- Vishuddha or Throat chakra, is located in the throat and is represented by the color blue. This is the center for communication as well as self expression. When unblocked and flowing we will be able to express and tell the truth without worrying what others may think, as well being able to express ones faith and thought fluently. When sick and blocked we may become anxious and censor our speech around others because of what their reactions may be. The implications of a blocked Vishuddha are mood swings, mouth, jaw neck and shoulder problems, as well as thyroid imbalances, Stamp or art collecting, singing, meaningful conversations, blue food & drinks, wearing the color blue, and the use of blue oils such as chamomile and geranium are recommended for healing this chakra.
Sixth Chakra- Anja, Brow, or The Third Eye chakra is found in the forehead in between the eyes and is symbolized by the color indigo. This is where we gather all of our intuition and information in our life. This chakra is responsible for realization and when free and flowing we are connected to our inner wisdom and feel guided in our choices, on the other hand when blocked we develop sleep disorder, distrust, lack of coordination, and self doubt. Stimulants for this chakra are Meditation, star gazing, indigo food & drink, wearing indigo clothing, using violet oils such as frankincense and patchouli.
Seventh Chakra- Sahaswara or Crown chakra is the seventh and final chakra and is colored purple. This chakra accounts for a higher consciousness and pure awareness. Known as the Thousand Petal Louts that bursts open when we remember our true nature and enlightenment. When blocked you are more prone to headaches and skin rashes. To enrich this chakra focus on dreams, write down visions, drink and eat purple food and drinks, as well as using violet oils like lavender.
