Chakra is a basic Sanskrit term which means “wheel” or “disc-shaped”. When we relate chakras to the human body, it symbolises the energy centres of the body. Chakras in a human body process the collection, processing and emanation of energies to keep our body functions intact. They can be termed as a spinning wheel of energies. To understand the energy flows in the body and the associated outputs we need to have a basic understanding of the various chakras present in our subtle body.

Apart from the 7 major chakras, the human body consists of numerous minor chakras. Any obstacle in the smooth functioning of these chakras leads to stabilization in the body elements. Any blockage in the chakras can lead to minor to major illness due to improper energy flows. Even small periods of depression, suppressed feelings of anger etc., improper nourishment, unethical activities like telling a lie can affect the smooth or unrestrained energy flow through the chakras. On the other hand, proper nourishment, ethical lifestyle, physical/mental/emotional/spiritual heath if taken care can lead to optimum or boosted flows through the energy chakras. Yoga or Reiki is a form of lifestyles that can help enhance fixing the blockages and ensure smooth energy flows.

Let us talk about the vital or major chakras along with their basic traits.

Base or Root Chakra Muladhara

The word Muladhara is coined by two Sanskrit words: mula = root & adhara= base/foundation.

This chakra is present at the base of the coccyx and is the first chakra in the human body. This chakra usually denotes the unconscious mind which is the house to past karmic actions. It is the chakra that defines the fine line between human and animal consciousness. It contains the knowledge of our destiny and what personality we are going to undertake. The positive attributes of the Muladhara Chakra are vitality, vigour and growth. The negative qualities are laziness, inertia, self-centredness and domination by one’s physical desires. It is symbolized by a lotus with four petals. Lord Shiva is the master of this chakra and the corresponding mantra is LAM.

Sacral Chakra Svadhistana

This is the second chakra that is located the lower belly and inner pelvis. Svadhisthana denotes one’s abode. The second chakra is the centre of feeling, emotion, pleasure, sensuality, intimacy, and connection. If the root chakra is about survival, then sacral chakra is about pleasure and enjoyment. It is the gate to our subconscious mind where all our current life experiences are stored. It is represented by a crocodile. Lord Brahma is the master of this chakra and the corresponding mantra is VAM.

Manipura Chakra or Navel Centre

The word Manipura is coined by two Sanskrit words: mani= jewel & pura= place.

After we have raised through the levels of unconscious and subconscious the Muldharaa Chakra and the Svadishthana Chakra our consciousness reaches the third level, the Manipura Chakra. This chakra signifies many precious jewels such as the qualities of clarity, self-confidence, bliss, self-assurance, knowledge, wisdom and the ability to make correct decisions. It is symbolized by a Lotus with 10 petals. Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi are the masters of this chakra and the corresponding mantra is RAM.

Anahata Chakra or Heart Centre

Anahata Nada = unlimited, infinite sound = the eternal sound of OM.

This one of the most beautiful chakras is present in the core of the heart, which makes it the seat of love. It is one of the most complex chakras associated with delightful experiences and feelings. It is the place where divine Atma is placed. It is usually associated with divine feelings of bliss, forgiveness, compassion, kindness, love etc. It is represented by a lotus with 12 petals. Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are the masters of this chakra and the corresponding mantra is YAM.

Vishuddhi Chakra or Throat Centre

The word Muladhara is coined by two Sanskrit words: visha = impurity, poison & shuddhi = purify.

The Vishuddhi Chakra is located in the vicinity of the Larynx and is therefore also known as the Throat Chakra. It is a centre of physical and spiritual purification. All pleasant or unpleasant experiences associated with our subconscious mind are stored in this chakra.

It is represented by a lotus with 16 petals. Lord Brahma are the masters of this chakra and the corresponding mantra is HAM.

Agya Chakra or Eyebrow Centre.

Agya is a Sanskrit word that denotes command, knowledge.

The agya chakra is present in the middle of the forehead i.e in between the eyebrows. It is also signified as the third eye. It is the chakra that denotes clarity and wisdom. It is the meeting point of the moon, sun and central Nadi. When energies from these nadis are combined here, it is attaining of supreme consciousness or samadhi. It is represented by a lotus with 2 petals. Lord Shiva is the master of this chakra and the corresponding mantra is OM.

Sahasrara Chakra or Crown Centre

Sahasrara simply means thousand or infinite. It is a chakra that radiates like Sun and is the significance of Supreme Consciousness. Control over this chakra leads to liberation from the cycle of life and death i.e it is the gateway to Moksha.

It is represented by a lotus with thousand petals. Lord Shiva in supreme form is the master of this chakra and the corresponding mantra is OM.