Chakra Yoga
Chakras are “spinning wheels” of
energy that run along the spine, and each chakra contributes to a part of our
subtle body. When out of balance, our chakras can contribute to many emotional
and physical ailments. Being knowledgeable about the chakras can help us feel
more balanced and whole in many ways. Yoga is an extremely beneficial way to release the prana or life force whenever it is stuck. Yoga releases the musty energy and invites fresh energy in our system through the poses and breathing.
What
are chakras?
In
Sanskrit, the word “chakra” means “disk” or “wheel” and refers to the energy
centers in your body. These wheels or disks of spinning energy each correspond
to certain nerve bundles and major organs.
To
function at their best, your chakras need to stay open, or balanced. If they
get blocked, you may experience physical or emotional symptoms related to a
particular chakra.
There
are seven main chakras that run along your spine. They start at the root, or
base, of your spine and extend to the crown of your head. That said, some
people believe you have at least 114 different chakras in the body.
The
chakras most often referred to are the seven main ones that we’ll explore in
more detail below.
What
are the 7 main chakras?
The
chakra system refers to the energy centers we have in our bodies. There are
seven major chakras, each in a specific location along your spine. Let’s look
at each one more closely.
Root chakra
The
root chakra, or Muladhara, is located at the base of your spine. It provides
you with a base or foundation for life, and it helps you feel grounded and able
to withstand challenges. Your root chakra is responsible for your sense of
security and stability.
Sacral chakra
The
sacral chakra, or Svadhisthana, is located just below your belly button. This
chakra is responsible for your sexual and creative energy. It’s also linked to
how you relate to your emotions as well as the emotions of others.
Solar plexus chakra
The
solar plexus chakra, or Manipura, is located in your stomach area. It’s
responsible for confidence and self-esteem, as well as helping you feel in
control of your life.
Heart chakra
The
heart chakra, or Anahata, is located near your heart, in the center of your
chest. It comes as no surprise that the heart chakra is all about our ability
to love and show compassion.
Throat chakra
The
throat chakra, or Vishuddha, is located in your throat. This chakra has to do
with our ability to communicate verbally.
Third eye chakra
The
third eye chakra, or Ajna, is located between your eyes. You can thank this
chakra for a strong gut instinct. That’s because the third eye is responsible
for intuition. It’s also linked to imagination.
Crown chakra
The
crown chakra, or Sahasrara, is located at the top of your head. Your Sahasrara
represents your spiritual connection to yourself, others, and the universe. It
also plays a role in your life’s purpose.
An
easy way to align your chakras is through yoga. Yoga works to move energy in
your body even when you are not focusing on it. But if you know you need to
work on aligning your chakras, there are certain yoga poses that can actually
help align your chakras.
Sources: isha.sadguru.org
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