Chakra Basics

What are Chakras?

Chakras are the concentrated energy centers of the body. Chakra is a Sanskrit term and it means “wheel” or “disk” and is derived from the root word “cakra”. Chakras are spinning wheels of energy/light. Chakras have the loving responsibility of taking in, incorporating, and emanating energy to keep us functioning at optimal levels.

We have Major and Minor Chakras

We have major and minor chakras in our energetic body systems. When a chakra is not functioning properly or if it is blocked, illness is more prone to occur. Our wellbeing on all levels can affect and is affected by the chakras. If we are feeling depressed, then we may not be taking in the maximum amount of energy for our needs. If we do not nourish our bodies with the proper food and nutrients, then we may take in less energy than more. If we “block” feelings such as anger, etc., or do not speak our truth, we may be unconsciously impeding our healthy energy flow.

How to Strengthen and Enhance the Flow of Your Chakra Systems

Chakra Basics

On the other hand, if we endeavor to work on our physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health, we can promote with ease the flow of energy through our chakras. Yoga is one way, for example, that we can work to strengthen and enhance the flow of our chakra systems. Clearing out clutter in our lives, physically and emotionally, helps to strengthen the flow of our energy. Forgiveness greatly enhances our energetic health. Of course, Reiki helps to strengthen the body’s energetic flow to bring back balance and promotes wellbeing on all levels.

Below is a list of the major chakras and their basic properties.

Base or Root Chakra – Muladhara.

Bija mantra (seed sound) is lam. It is related to survival, security, and is the closest to the earth, resting at the base of the spine. The color associated with it is red. It is naturally associated with the element earth. To keep this chakra healthy, exercises such as dancing, jogging, or jumping are beneficial. We should see if our security needs are being met, and take our power to create our own security in our lives so that our world is a safe and enjoyable place for us. Its message is, “I exist”. Live your life proudly.

Sacral Chakra – Svadhistana.

Bija Mantra is vam. This chakra is related to sensuality, sexuality, and desire for pleasure. It is in the lower abdomen and its color is orange. Svadhistana is associated with the element water. Bellydancing, loving partnerships, and yoga can enhance the function of this chakra. This chakra says, “I desire”. Live your passion, whatever that may be. What are your dreams? How do you desire to live? Claim your dreams and go out and make them a reality – give birth to your dreams.

Solar Plexus Chakra – Manipura.

Bija mantra is ram. Its color is yellow, and it is related to our power in this world. Its natural element is fire, and this is where the “fire in your belly” term derives from. An overbearing solar plexus chakra (one not in balance with the other chakras in your system or one where your energy is solely focused) can result in obsessive-compulsive control. A third chakra, or solar plexus chakra, with a healthy flow, allows you to control your destiny, feel your power and accomplish your dreams. The message of the third chakra is “I control”. Go forth and control your own destiny and happiness – you deserve it!

Heart Chakra – Anahata.

Bija mantra is yam. Green is the color of this chakra and it relates naturally to love and compassion, being at our heart center. This fourth chakra is associated with air. Healthy relationships, pets, family, even appreciation of beauty and nature enhance the health of this chakra. Anahata says, “I love”. Let your heart energy flow freely in and out. Be open to receiving the love that is available to you now, the free-flowing love that is your birthright. Sense your Reiki family around the world – feel the great love that you all share and that you selflessly emanate into this world. Shine the love that you are.

Throat Chakra – Vishuddha.

Bija mantra is ham. The throat center or communication center is where you speak your truth in this world. Its color is blue. When this chakra is flowing at optimum levels, you have the ability to ask for what you need. You also reflect your truth in the world through this chakra though your communication. Singing, chanting, and breathing exercises can enhance the health of this chakra. The message of the throat chakra is “I express”. Do not suppress your own beautiful voice. Speak your truth, sing your joy, emanate your love through the vibration of your words.

Third Eye Chakra – Ajna.

Some associated Bija mantras are Sham or Aum or Om. The natural color of this chakra is indigo. Insight, intuition, awareness, and guidance are the properties of this sixth chakra. This chakra, located between the eyebrows, says, “I am the witness”. Meditation and visualization exercises can assist the healthy flow of this chakra. Be open to your inner guidance. Listen to your thoughts, they will assist you on the right path.

Crown Chakra – Sahasrara.

Some associated Bija mantras are Om or Ah or Soham. It is the silence between the space and represents spiritual connection. It is associated with violet or violet-white light, a color many Reiki practitioners are drawn to and use in their work and meditations. Located a little above the top of the head, it represents union, bliss, the knowledge of being at one with all. Cosmic consciousness and peace are the frequency at this chakra. “I am that I am”.

It may be beneficial to meditate on the chakras for increased health of your energetic system and even intuit themes from them. Some simple ideas are: breathing energy into your chakras, starting at the base, seeing the colors vividly, and visualizing your beautiful energy centers spinning in a healthy way, filling your body with health, wisdom, and light. Another idea is to meditate, starting at your base chakra, and ask them if they have a message for you. The answers you receive may be quite insightful! Also, continue to give Reiki to yourself – this is one of the best ways to assist your body’s energy system to function in a healthy way and to work toward wellness on all levels.

**This article appeared in The Reiki Times, the official magazine of the International Association of Reiki Professionals.