Where are the Chakras?
The 7 chakras are energy centers in the body located along the spine and each has a unique purpose. When these chakras are open, they allow chi or life-force energy to flow freely through the body, allowing for physical and emotional wellbeing. On the other hand, if any of the chakras become blocked it can cause physical and emotional illness.
The Root chakra, located at the base of the spine, is associated with grounding, security and our connection to our bodies and environment. When this chakra is open we feel secure, connected and present in the physical world. To open this chakra we can practice yoga poses such as Mountain Pose or Child’s Pose, as well as mediation and journaling. Blocks to this chakra can include feelings of insecurity or lack of support.
The Sacral chakra is located in the lower abdomen and is associated with creativity, emotions and sexuality. When this chakra is open we feel inspired, creative and connected to our passions. We can open this chakra by engaging in activities that spark creativity, such as painting, dancing or writing. Blocks to this chakra can manifest as difficulty expressing emotions or feeling disconnected from our passions.
The Solar Plexus is located above the navel and is related to the expression of our personal power and identity. An open solar plexus allows us to trust our own power and express ourselves authentically. To open this chakra we can practice yoga sequences such as Warrior Pose or Cat/Cow, or engage in activities that build self-confidence, such as martial arts. Blocks to this chakra can include feelings of insecurity, low self-worth, or difficulty expressing one’s true self.
The Heart chakra is located at the center of the chest and is associated with love, compassion and connection to others. When this chakra is open we feel connected to ourselves and others, experience unconditional love, and foster meaningful relationships. To open this chakra we can practice yoga poses such as Cobra Pose or Bow Pose, as well as meditation and journaling. Blocks to this chakra can include difficulty expressing love or forming meaningful connections with others.
The Throat chakra is located in the throat area and is associated with expression, communication and truth. When this chakra is open we are able to express ourselves authentically without fear of judgment or criticism. To open this chakra we can practice yoga poses such as Plow Pose or Fish Pose, as well as mindful speaking and self-inquiry. Blocks to this chakra can include difficulty expressing ourselves or feeling like our voice is not heard.
The Third Eye chakra is located between the eyebrows and is associated with intuition, insight and imagination. When this chakra is open we use our intuition to make decisions and access higher states of consciousness. To open this chakra we can practice yoga poses such as Headstand or Shoulder Stand, as well as meditation and dream exploration. Blocks to this chakra can manifest as difficulty trusting our gut instincts or feeling disconnected from the spiritual world.
The Crown chakra is located at the top of the head and is associated with spiritual connection, wisdom and understanding. When this chakra is open we are able to access a higher level of consciousness and experience true enlightenment. To open this chakra we can practice yoga poses such as Halasana or Savasana, as well as deep meditation and spiritual practices. Blocks to this chakra can include feeling disconnected from the divine or difficulty understanding our higher purpose.
By cultivating an open, balanced and healthy flow of energy through all seven of the chakras, we can experience physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing. To create a balanced energetic system it is important to practice activities that nourish each individual chakra and to work through any blocks that may be present. With dedication and consistency, we can create a vibrant energetic system that will serve us for years to come.
_This article was written for informational purposes only._
**_Please consult a healthcare professional before engaging in any yoga or meditation practice
Martyn Williams
Coach Martyn is a world record holding extreme expedition leader, and the first person to lead expeditions to Everest and the North and South Poles. As an entrepreneur, Martyn started the first airline in Antarctica, and also created several adventure travel and health food companies. In 2000 he created a 35,000km, human powered, 9-month journey from the North Magnetic Pole to the South Pole with young people from around the world. Martyn then went on to teach enlightenment to monks in India for 7 years. He loves exploring how to discover our ultimate human potential.