“ what are chakras? “
— a chakra ( चक्र ) is a meditation-aid in the form of a psychic or psychospiritual energy-center in the subtle body, as visualized in a variety of Hindu and Buddhist tantric yoga and meditation practices.
Medieval Buddhist texts from 8th century CE mention four or five chakras, while Hindu sources have various numbers.
Even though chakras aren’t recognized by Western science, they may be a useful metaphor for helping find balance and greater levels of health and wellness.
1. Muladhara / Root Chakra : Located at the base of the spine. It is associated with red and governs feelings of stability, grounding, and physical safety.
purpose : survival and security
location : base of the spine
element : earth
2. Swadhisthana / Sacral Chakra : Located just below the navel. Associated with orange, it rules over creativity, emotions, passion, and pleasure.
purpose : creation
location : slightly below the navel
element : water
3. Manipura / Solar Plexus Chakra : Located in the stomach area. Associated with yellow, it dictates personal power, self-esteem, and confidence.
purpose : power and self esteem
location : slightly above the navel
element : fire
4. Anahata / Heart Chakra : Located in the center of the chest. Tied to green, it is the center for love, compassion, and emotional connection.
purpose : love, joy and inner peace.
location : heart region
element : air
Vishuddha / Throat Chakra : Located in the throat. Associated with blue, it controls communication, self-expression, and truth.
purpose : communication and self-expression
location : center of throat / neck
elemant : sound
Ajna / Third Eye Chakra : Located between the eyes. Tied to indigo, it governs intuition, imagination, and wisdom.
purpose : ability to think and make decisions
location : middle of forehead
elemant : light
Sahasrara / Crown Chakra : Located at the top of the head. Associated with violet or white, it represents spiritual connection, enlightenment, and higher consciousness.
purpose : connection to spiritually
location : center of the head
elemant : thought
