The Chakras

Typically when the Chakras are mentioned people think "here we go.. granola stuff coming at me"... well, they're pretty simple and easy to understand. Not that everyone needs to know the detail of them to study Yoga, but it does certainly enhance the experience to be aware of them.

There are technically 8 major Chakras. 7 directly related to the physical form and 1 that surrounds the body. The 7 Chakras of the body are typically associated with nerve bundles in the spine. Typically the Chakras are depicted as colored "wheels" ascending the physical body. These are in fact "wheels" of spinning energy. When they are in balance and functioning in a healthy way we feel a sense of wellness. When they are out of alignment or blocked there is uneasiness and often times dis-ease within the body.

The Root Chakra - this is typically considered the 1st Chakra and is located at the base of the spine or technically the Perineum. This Chakra forms our foundation of the physical body. It is related to our survival instinct and our feeling of being grounded and connects our bodies on the physical plane. The color associated with this Chakra is Red, element Earth and the sentiment is "I Exist" .

The Belly Chakra - this is the 2nd Chakra and is located in the abdomen, lower back and sexual organs. It is related to emotions and sexuality. This Chakra connects us to others through feeling and desire. The color associated with it is Orange, element Water and sentiment is "I Feel".

The Solar Plexus Chakra - this 3rd Chakra is located in the Solar Plexus just below the sternum. It is related to personal power, ego, will, and individuality. This Chakra brings us energy, effectiveness and non-dominating personal power. The color associated is Yellow, element Fire and sentiment is "I Think".

The Heart Chakra - this is the 4th Chakra and is located at the heart center in the center of the sternum. It is the center of love and filter of the opposite. This Chakra allows us to love deeply, feel a sense of compassion, peace and centeredness. The color associated is Green, element air and sentiment is "I Love Humanity".

The Throat Chakra - this 5th Chakra is located in the throat. It is related to communication and creativity. This is where we experience the world through vibration as in the sound of speech representing language. The color is Blue, element is Sound and sentiment is "I feel physically".

The Third Eye Chakra - this 6th Chakra is located between the eyes just in front of the Pineal & Pituitary glands. It is related to the act of seeing, both physically and intuitively. It allows us to see the detail as well as the big picture. The color indego, element is Light and sentiment is "I Love Universally".

The Crown Chakra - this 7th Chakra is located at the crown of the head. It is related to consciousness and awareness. This Chakra brings us knowledge, understanding, wisdom and spiritual connection. The color is Violet/White, element is Wisdom and sentiment is "I Know.. I Am".