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A Down-to-Earth Introduction to the Chakra System
- Rianna Banana
- May 12
- 3 min read
Updated: May 19
Ever wondered about the chakra system but felt unsure? You're not alone. I have put together an easy introduction into this fascinating system. In this blog post, we will break down the essentials of chakras and provide a simple exercise to help you connect with these energy centers in just two minutes.
Understanding Chakras
The term "chakra" comes from Sanskrit, meaning "wheel." In many spiritual traditions, chakras are viewed as energy centers in our bodies. There are seven main chakras, each linked to different aspects of our physical, emotional, and spiritual selves.
Many people first learn about the chakra system through yoga. You might have heard your teacher say something like: 'today we will focus on opening the Heart chakra'. Yoga poses indeed can help to activate or balance the chakras.
According to Anodea Judith, author of the bestelling book Wheels of Life the goal of the Chakra System is not some otherworldly or disembodied enlightenment but rather wholeness and integration, spanning the full spectrum of human possibility.
The Seven Main Chakras
Root Chakra (Muladhara): Positioned at the base of the spine, this chakra represents our sense of safety and security. It is tied to our survival instincts. An imbalance may manifest as feelings of fear or insecurity.
Sacral Chakra (Svadhisthana): Located just below the navel, the sacral chakra governs creativity, sexuality, and emotional expression. When blocked, you might feel dull or disconnected from your passion.
Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipura): Found in the upper abdomen, this chakra relates to personal power and self-confidence. A healthy solar plexus chakra often leads to assertiveness and ambition.
Heart Chakra (Anahata): Centered at the chest, the heart chakra embodies love and connection. People with a balanced heart chakra are typically warm, compassionate, and open to giving and receiving love.
Throat Chakra (Vishuddha): Located at the throat, this chakra governs communication. A blocked throat chakra can lead to difficulties in expressing oneself.
Third Eye Chakra (Ajna): Positioned between the eyebrows, the third eye chakra is linked to intuition and insight. When active, it enhances mental clarity and foresight.
Crown Chakra (Sahasrara): Found at the top of the head, this chakra signifies spiritual connection. A balanced crown chakra may give you a sense of purpose and connection to the universe.
Each chakra is linked to specific areas of the body, emotions, behaviors, and even thought patterns. When a chakra is balanced, energy flows freely and we feel more aligned. When it’s blocked or excessive, we may feel off, emotionally, physically, or energetically.
Why Explore the Chakra System?
Exploring the chakra system offers a way to understand your emotions and reactions. Many people find it useful for personal growth and empowerment. For instance, by learning to recognize which chakras feel blocked or overactive, you can take actionable steps to restore balance.
Whether you want to enhance your yoga and medidation practice or feel a stronger connection to yourself, taking time to learn about and connect with your chakras can be a transformative experience.
If you're eager for a deeper exploration of your chakras and the potential they hold, consider attending a Yoga and Meditation Retreat in Portugal, where you can immerse yourself in practices designed to nurture these energy centers more profoundly.
This is just what we have in store for you at Just Flow – Chakra Series: Root Chakra Edition retreat this November at the beautiful Quinta Carvalhas 1-hour from Lisbon. It’s a chance to slow down, reconnect with your body, and restore a sense of stability.
A Simple Exercise to Feel the Energy of Your Chakras
After covering the basics, let's try a simple exercise that can help you feel the energy of your chakras in just two minutes. (Exercise from Anodea Judith's book: Chakra Yoga)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Extend both arms out in front of you with elbows straight, preferable with one hand up and one hand down.
Open and close your palms rapidly moving many times from fully open to fully closed. Make sure you really stretch your fingers all the way open and then make a complete fist. Do this until your hands start to feel tired
Separate your hands as wide as your shoulders and with relaxed palms, very slowly bring your open palms towards each other
As your palms come within a few inches of each other, you may experience a subtle field of energy between your hands, almost like a magnetic field. If you tune in very closely you might even feel it as a spinning vortex of energy.
This is what opening the chakras of the hands feels like. An easy way to start to experience the subtle energy. Think of it as energetic anatomy — just like muscles and bones, but subtler.
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