“Chakra” is a Sanskrit word literally meaning “wheel.” These are circular, spinning energy centers existing in our subtle etheric body—the non-material counterpart to our physical self.
The Essence of Chakras
There are seven main chakras located along the spine, extending out the front and back of the body. They represent our highest level of integration, with each center corresponding to a specific refinement of energy:
- Lower Chakras (Pelvis): Focused on base-level material identity.
- Upper Chakras (Crown): Focused on higher vibration spirit awareness.
When we are disconnected between the physical self, the heart, and the higher mind, we become “energetically split.” Studying this system allows us to reunite these disparate parts into a unified field of brilliance and full self-awareness.
The Anatomy of Energy Channels
Chakras form at the junction of three primary energy shafts that ascend the spine:
- Shushumna: The central channel.
- Pingala: The channel on the right side.
- Ida: The channel on the left side.
These centers act as gateways, collecting and transforming Prana (life force energy) and passing it into our physical bodies. Without this flow, our material bodies could not exist.
Mind, Body, and Behavior
Each chakra provides energy to a specific part of the body and its associated organs. Beyond the physical, every chakra corresponds to specific human behaviors and spiritual development:
- Lower Chakras: Associated with fundamental emotions and denser, lower-frequency needs.
- Upper Chakras: Corresponds to higher mental and spiritual aspirations.
- The Heart: The center that ties all other energies together.
The Path to Balance and Health
The state of our health is determined by the openness and flow of energy through these centers. Yoga and meditation systems seek to maintain harmony by purifying lower energies and guiding them upward. This balance is achieved through:
- Grounding.
- Creating “internal space”.
- Living consciously with an awareness of how we acquire and spend our energy.
Energetic Refinement and Pairings
For full self-realization, our base tendencies must be raised to incorporate a heart-felt spiritual focus. Each upper center refines its lower counterpart:
- 7th with 1st: Connecting Spirit to Embodiment.
- 6th with 2nd: Connecting Higher Mind to Relationship.
- 5th with 3rd: Connecting your Wisdom/Voice to Personal Empowerment.
- The 4th (Heart): The central point of full integration and connection to the whole.
