The Chakra System

Originating from within the ancient systems of India, chakras refer to spinning vortices of energy, or energy centers, created within us by the interpretation of consciousness and the physical body.

Chakra Correspondence Charts First Chakra Second Chakra Third Chakra Fourth Chakra Fifth Chakra Sixth Chakra Seventh Chakra

The word chakras, comes from the Sanskrit language and technically means “wheel or disk.” We can think of them as seven spinning spheres of energy stacked in a column that spans from the base of the spine to the top, or crown, of the head. Just as the emotions affect our heart rate, metabolic rate, heart rate; the chakras correspond and influence various bodily processes such as breathing, digesting and procreating, thoughts and behaviors. We can influence our chakras through various modalities of bodywork, yoga, breath work, meditation and visualization.

Archetypally, the chakras represent the elemental forces of earth, water, fire, air, sound, light and thought. Understanding the essence of each associated element helps us to understand the unique qualities and nature of each chakra. We can think of them as metaphorical representations – earth that is solid and dense; water is formless and flows; fire that radiates and purifies; air that is soft and spacious; sound that is rhythmic and communicates; light that illuminates and reveals; and thought that stores information and is the medium of consciousness. Numerous other correspondences have been attributed to each chakra, many of which I have included in the chakra tables that you can access by going to the link provided. Basically, we all have different and unique models of hardware programmed in our own distinct language with intricate operating systems, and we work with the chakras to “get the bugs out” so all of our programs run smoothly so that we can experience a healthy, vibrant life.

There are many wonderful resources with in-depth information on the chakras. I have compiled my information primarily from the text, The Sevenfold Journey – Reclaiming Mind, Body & Spirit Through the Chakras by Anodea Judith & Selene Vega, as well as from notes from Eastern Body, Western Mind by Anodea Judith. I hope the correspondence tables and work we continue to do in our asana classes, helps you to balance your body, mind and spirit and brings you continued insight and depth of practice. Enjoy the journey…I know I am!!

Namaste...