What are Chakras?
The Sanskrit word “chakra” translates to wheel or disk. In yoga, meditation and ayurveda, this refers to the spinning energy points found within each of the chakras. There are seven main chakras that run from the base of the spine to the crown of the head. Each chakra has its own colour, element and symbol.
There is a kind of feedback loop happening between the chakras and the physical body. An imbalance in a chakra can manifest as a physical and emotional issue. Similarly, balancing the chakras can often heal imbalances in the physical body.
We can activate and balance our chakras through a variety of methods including sound therapy, crystals, yoga, aromatherapy and meditation. When you discover which area you want to focus on, take some time to adjust, clear and restore that chakra. With this introduction to chakras, you’ll learn important information to help you get started.
Sounds
Sound therapy is a central element to working with the chakra systems. Each chakra vibrates at its own frequency, which specific sounds can stimulate and balance. These sounds are often chanted as a mantra. When we chant the chakra sounds, we not only receive the benefits of singing and deep breathing, we also synchronise and attune the chakras to their optimal frequency.
Crystals
Different crystals, or healing stones relate to specific chakras. Due to their vibrational energy, crystals help balance and open the corresponding chakra. Healing crystals work best when placed close to the chakra in need of healing. Try wearing the crystals as jewellery, keep them in your pockets or under your pillow at night.
Chakras
Here’s an introduction to the seven main chakras and their meanings.
1. The Root Chakra (Muladhara)
Balanced
I am confident. I am full of energy.
Imbalanced
Low self-esteem. Low energy.
The word Muladhara breaks down into two Sanskrit words: Mula meaning "root" and Adhara, which means "support" or "base". Muladhara is located at the base of the spine, the pelvic floor, and the first three vertebrae. When this chakra is activated you feel safe, grounded and in control on this earthly journey. All other chakras depend on this one, as all good things come from a solid foundation.
- Action: "I am"
- Colour: Red
- Mantra chant: "Lam"
- Element: Earth
- Energy: Grounding
- Yoga Pose: Warrior I
- Crystals: Hematite, Tiger’s Eye, Black Obsidian, Garnet, Ruby
2. Sacral Chakra (Svadisthana)
Balanced
I am creative. I constantly have new ideas.
Imbalanced
Lack of creativity. Unable to find solutions.
The sacral chakra is located below the naval in the hips. This chakra is the center for our emotions, feelings and pleasure. Some corresponding body areas and organs are the genitals, lower back, and abdominal. The sacral chakra plays an active role in our sexuality, expression of sexual needs and desires. When this chakra is activated, you become in touch with your emotions and trusting of others.
- Action: "I feel"
- Colour: Orange
- Mantra chant: "Vam"
- Element: Water
- Energy: In the flow
- Yoga Pose: Bound Angle Pose
- Crystals: Orange Calcite, Carnelian, Red Jasper, Moonstone
3. The Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipura)
Balanced
I am organised. I accept all parts of myself.
Imbalanced
I can’t finish tasks. I feel angry and helpless.
The position of the solar plexus chakra is best described as four fingerbreadths above the navel. This chakra is where your power and self-confidence manifests. When activated you feel energetic, outgoing and relaxed. "Manipura" means a lustrous gem. The jewel or qualities associated with this chakra strengthen the digestive system and diaphragm. The solar plexus focuses on the power and autonomy of metabolism.
- Action: "I do"
- Colour: Yellow
- Mantra chant: "Ram"
- Element: Fire
- Energy: Self-mastery, Power
- Yoga Pose: Boat Pose
- Crystals: Citrine, Tiger’s Eye, Golden Calcite, Amber
4. The Heart Chakra (Anahata)
Balanced: Loving others comes easy when I love myself.
Imbalanced: I feel heart broken and unloved.
The heart chakra, or Anahata in Sanskrit, is located at the center of the spine at the heart level. Anahata roughly translates to "unhurt". The heart chakra acts as the center of compassion, empathy, love, and forgiveness. This chakra governs one’s sense of trust, fearlessness, peace, generosity, gratitude and connectedness. When the heart chakra is activated, transformation and love for oneself is possible.
- Action: "I love"
- Colour: Green
- Mantra chant: "Yam"
- Element: Air
- Energy: Love, Compassion
- Yoga Pose: Camel Pose
- Crystals: Aventurine, Jade, Malachite, Rose Quartz
5. The Throat Chakra (Vishuddha)
Balanced
I express myself freely.
Imbalanced
I can not express or explain myself.
The throat chakra, or Vishuddha is located at the center of the neck. Responsible for communication, it governs expression and individual truth, both internally and externally. A balanced throat chakra helps to set us free from the fear of judgment or the need for approval from others. This chakra helps us to embrace our originality and unique individual experiences in the world.
- Action: "I speak"
- Colour: Light Blue/Turquoise
- Mantra chant: "Ham"
- Element: Ether
- Energy: Expression, Purification, Communication
- Yoga Pose: Fish Pose
- Crystals: Aquamarine, Turquoise, Lapis Lazuli, Celestite
6. The Third Eye Chakra (Ajna)
Balanced
I am calm, I am clear. I’m on the right path.
Imbalanced
Confused, poor insight, I can’t make decisions.
The third eye is located in the centre of the forehead at the brow. The Sanskrit name "Ajna" translates to "perceiving". This chakra is the center of insight, imagination, self-reflection and clarity of thoughts. When you open the third eye chakra, connecting with the present becomes easier. You feel focused, steady, intuitive, and able to see things from a higher perspective.
- Action: "I see"
- Colour: Dark Blue/Purple
- Mantra chant: "Aum"
- Element: Light
- Energy: Intuition, Wisdom, Insight
- Yoga Pose: Child’s Pose
- Crystals: Amethyst, Azurite, Lepidolite, Lapis Lazuli
7. The Crown Chakra (Sahasrara)
Balanced
I am at peace. I am enlightened. I know my own voice.
Imbalanced
Loneliness, depression, anxiety, confusion, apathy.
The crown chakra, or Sahasrara in Sanskrit, is known as "the bridge to the cosmos". Located above the crown of the head, it is the most spiritual in nature of all seven chakras. In a sense, the crown chakra is our highest potential. It is the center of spirit, enlightenment, wisdom, universal consciousness, and connection to higher guidance. This chakra governs interaction and communication with the universe, one's sense of inspiration and devotion, and is responsible for a healthy spiritual life. When balancing chakras, it is important to work on the other six first as the energy here is supplied by the others.
- Action: "I understand"
- Colour: Violet/White
- Mantra chant: "Om"
- Element: Cosmos, Divine Consciousness
- Energy: Transcendence
- Yoga Pose: Headstand
- Crystals: Clear Quartz, Selenite, Clear Calcite, Selenite
We hope this introduction inspires you to bring natural harmonic balance to your chakras. Enjoy trying different activation methods, starting with the chakra you feel needs the most attention.
These seven chakras inspired our high-quality cork Chakra Yoga Mat. Made with 100% renewable and recyclable materials and printed with environmentally friendly ink. You can learn more about our cork yoga mats here.
