The 7 Chakras for Beginners
Healing, Balancing, and Opening Your Chakras with Exercises, Foods, Colors
The 7 Chakras are the energy centers in our body in which energy flows through.
Here's our quick summary of the 7 Chakras:
1. Root Chakra - Represents our foundation and feeling of being grounded.
Location: Base of spine in tailbone area.
Emotional issues: Survival issues such as financial independence, money, and food.
More on Root Chakra healing
2. Sacral Chakra - Our connection and ability to accept others and new experiences.
Location: Lower abdomen, about 2 inches below the navel and 2 inches in.
Emotional issues: Sense of abundance, well-being, pleasure, sexuality.
More on Sacral Chakra healing
3. Solar Plexus Chakra - Our ability to be confident and in-control of our lives.
Location: Upper abdomen in the stomach area.
Emotional issues: Self-worth, self-confidence, self-esteem.
More on Solar Plexus Chakra healing
4. Heart Chakra - Our ability to love.
Location: Center of chest just above heart.
Emotional issues: Love, joy, inner peace.
More on Heart Chakra healing
5. Throat Chakra - Our ability to communicate.
Location: Throat.
Emotional issues: Communication, self-expression of feelings, the truth.
More on Throat Chakra healing
6. Third Eye Chakra - Our ability to focus on and see the big picture.
Location: Forehead between the eyes. (Also called the Brow Chakra)
Emotional issues: Intuition, imagination, wisdom, ability to think and make decisions.
More on Third Eye Chakra healing
7. Crown Chakra - The highest Chakra represents our ability to be fully connected spiritually.
Location: The very top of the head.
Emotional issues: Inner and outer beauty, our connection to spirituality, pure bliss.
More on Crown Chakra healing
Blocked energy in our 7 Chakras can often lead to illness so it's important to understand what each Chakra represents and what we can do to keep this energy flowing freely.
Here's our quick summary of the 7 Chakras:
1. Root Chakra - Represents our foundation and feeling of being grounded.
Location: Base of spine in tailbone area.
Emotional issues: Survival issues such as financial independence, money, and food.
More on Root Chakra healing
2. Sacral Chakra - Our connection and ability to accept others and new experiences.
Location: Lower abdomen, about 2 inches below the navel and 2 inches in.
Emotional issues: Sense of abundance, well-being, pleasure, sexuality.
More on Sacral Chakra healing
3. Solar Plexus Chakra - Our ability to be confident and in-control of our lives.
Location: Upper abdomen in the stomach area.
Emotional issues: Self-worth, self-confidence, self-esteem.
More on Solar Plexus Chakra healing
4. Heart Chakra - Our ability to love.
Location: Center of chest just above heart.
Emotional issues: Love, joy, inner peace.
More on Heart Chakra healing
5. Throat Chakra - Our ability to communicate.
Location: Throat.
Emotional issues: Communication, self-expression of feelings, the truth.
More on Throat Chakra healing
6. Third Eye Chakra - Our ability to focus on and see the big picture.
Location: Forehead between the eyes. (Also called the Brow Chakra)
Emotional issues: Intuition, imagination, wisdom, ability to think and make decisions.
More on Third Eye Chakra healing
7. Crown Chakra - The highest Chakra represents our ability to be fully connected spiritually.
Location: The very top of the head.
Emotional issues: Inner and outer beauty, our connection to spirituality, pure bliss.
More on Crown Chakra healing
Published October 27, 2009 at 8:00 PM
The
Seven Main Chakras and Seven Chakra Colours
There are seven main energy centres
(chakras) of the body. These chakras are like spirals of energy, each one
relating to the others. Using the seven colours of the spectrum, Colour Therapy
aims to balance and enhance our body's energy centres/chakras and also to help
stimulate our body's own healing process.
Colour Therapy uses colour to re-balance the Chakras that have become
depleted of energy.
Colour therapy can be shown to help
on a physical level; however there are deeper issues around the colours on the
psychological and spiritual levels.
Colour has a profound effect on us on all levels, physical, mental,
emotional and spiritual. If our energy centres become blocked or depleted, then
our body cannot function properly and this, in turn, can lead to a variety of
problems on any level.
Our well being is not purely a
physical issue. Many more practitioners are now treating patients in a holistic
manner. That is to say, we are body, mind and spirit and none of these areas
function entirely alone; each has an effect upon the other. This is why Colour
Therapy can be so helpful since colour addresses all levels of our being.
All life experiences have an affect
upon us. Some experiences will be positive and some negative. It is these
negative experiences which can manifest themselves physically over time as
dis-ease. For example, perhaps over the years we have been in a situation where
we have felt unable, for one reason or another, to speak our mind, or to express
our needs and feelings. This can manifest as a problem in the throat chakra. The
throat chakra relates in the spiritual aspect to self expression. Thus, if our
self expression has been blocked, the energy in this area will not be free
flowing. Working with the appropriate
colour/colours can help to dispel negative feelings, free blocks and re-balance
the body. Listed below is each of the
spectrum colours and the chakra which it relates to.
The Colours
BEAUTY,
CREATIVITY, INSPIRATION
Related
organ:
brain
Endocrine gland: pineal gland. Associated problems: depression, Parkinson's disease, Schizophrenia, Epilepsy, seniledementia, Alzheimer's, many mental disorders, confusion, and dizziness.
positive aspects of violet
- a reverence for all life
negative aspects of violet
INTUITION, MYSTICISM,
UNDERSTANDING
Related organs:
eyes, lower head and sinuses
Endocrine gland:
pituitary gland.
Associated problems:
tension
headache, migraine, visual defects, short-sightedness, long-sightedness,
glaucoma, cataracts, sinus problems, ear
problems.
Personality Traits:
Intuitive, fearless, practical, idealistic, wise, and a truth
seeker.
Indigo relates to self
responsibility - being responsible for one's own life, responsible to
oneself to follow the soul's path and needs and trusting one's own
intuition. (the ability to see things from a 'higher' viewpoint
rather than purely for satisfaction of the ego or one's material comfort.). The indigo energy connects us to our
unconscious self, and gives us the experience of being part of the whole
universe. Strengthens intuition, imagination, psychic powers, and increases
dream activity.
positive aspects of indigo
- highly intuitive - faithful - clear sighted - integrity
negative aspects of indigo
Related organs:
throat and lungs
Endocrine
gland: thyroid gland. The upper
digestive tract can be affected by imbalance in this area.TURQUOISE can also be
helpful for both the throat and the heart chakra.
Associated
problems: Thyroid problems - over active/under active; Anorexia nervosa
(this is a multi-chakra problem but has a strong connection to the throat
chakra); asthma; bronchitis; hearing problems; tinnitus - may also be connected
to problems with the brow chakra; problems of the upper digestive tract; mouth
ulcers, sore throats, tonsillitis.
Personality Traits:
Loyal, tactful, affectionate, inspiring, inventive, caring, and
cautious.
Blue is the colour of the spirit and
relates to self expression - speech, communication, the
ability to communicate our needs and requirements; Spirit of truth and
purpose. This is a mentally-relaxing colour. Blue has a pacifying
effect on the nervous system and brings great relaxation - ideal for sleep
problems, and hyper-active children. Connects us to holistic thought, and gives
us wisdom and clarity enhancing communication and speech.
positive aspects of blue
- loyal
negative aspects of blue
- unfaithful - untrustworthy - self-righteous - cold
Related organs:
heart and breasts
Endocrine gland:
thymus gland
Associated problems:
heart diseases, diseases of the Immune system eg.AIDS and ME (myalgia
encephalomyelitis,sometimes referred to as chronic fatigue syndrome); other
problems related to the immune system, allergies, cancer of the breast.
TURQUOISE also has a helpful effect on the immune system and also helpful in
relation to the throat chakra. PINK also relates to the heart chakra being the
colour of love.
Personality Traits:
Understanding, self-controlled, adaptable, sympathetic, compassionate, generous,
humble, nature loving, and romantic.
Green
chakra relates
to love/self love - the ability to give and take
unconditionally. When balanced we are able to give love and also to love and
nurture ourselves. Helps relax muscles,
nerves, and thoughts. Cleanses and balances our energy, to give a feeling of
renewal, peace and harmony. Green connects us to unconditional love and is used
for balancing our whole being.
positive aspects of green
-
compassion
negative aspects of green
- indifference -
jealousy
WISDOM, CLARITY,
SELF-ESTEEM
Related organs:
liver, spleen, stomach and small intestine.
Endocrine gland:
pancreas
Associated problems:
diabetes, pancreatitis, liver disease, peptic ulcer, Coeliac's disease,
and gall stones.
Personality Traits:
Good-humored, optimistic, confident, practical, and
intellectual.
Yellow is a creative colour and relates to
self worth. How we feel about ourselves and how we feel others
perceive us. This is the area of the personality, the ego and the
intellect. Gives us clarity of thought,
increases awareness, and stimulates interest and curiosity. Yellow energy is
related to the ability to perceive and understand. The yellow energyconnects us to our mental self.
positive aspects of yellow
- confident - alert
negative aspects of
yellow
- feelings of
inferiority
HAPPINESS, CONFIDENCE,
RESOURCEFULNESS
Related organs:
uterus, large bowel, prostate, ovaries and testes. (In the fetus the testes
develop in the lower abdomen, thus linking with the sacral chakra energy, then
descending to the scrotum by birth.)
Endocrine glands:
ovaries and testes
Associated problems:
pre-menstrual syndrome, problems with menstrual flow, uterine fibroids,
ovarian cysts, irritable bowel syndrome, endometriosis, testicular disease,
prostate disease.
Personality Traits:
Enthusiastic, happy, sociable, energetic, sporty, self-assured, and
constructive.
Orange is the colour of success and relates
to self respect;
having the ability to give ourselves the freedom to be ourselves
and helps you expand your interests and activities. Brings joy to our workday and strengthens our
appetite for life! Orange is the best emotional stimulant. It connects us to our
senses and helps to remove inhibitions and makes us independent and social.
positive aspects of orange
-
sociable
negative aspects of orange
- withdrawn -
destructive
VITALITY, COURAGE, SELF
CONFIDENCE
Related organs:
kidneys and bladder, the vertebral column, hips and legs are also areas related
to this chakra.
Endocrine
gland: adrenal gland.
Associated
problems: constipation, diarrhea, piles, colitis, Crohn's disease, cold
fingers and toes, frequency of urination, hypertension (high blood pressure),
kidney stones, impotence, hip problems, legs and feet. PINK can also be used
here when a more gentle energy is required.
Red relates to self
awareness. It is the area of survival and stability and your place on
this earth. The colour red provides the power from the earth and
gives energy on all levels. It connects us to our physical body. Everything that
is to be commenced needs the life vitality of red.
positive aspects of red:
-
security
negative aspects of red:
- insecurity - self
pitying
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Meditation
There are many ways of meditating
and meditation means different things to different people. Meditation is part of
normal daily practice for a great number of people within some religions.
Whatever the word 'meditation' means to you the practice can be enormously
helpful as a way of calming the mind and finding your own inner peace. This place of inner peace is where we can
open up to our higher self - without the 'interference' of the ego or intellect
- where we can find our higher intelligence and knowing.
Meditation can be achieved by focusing the mind on a particular object, for example a flower, or on a simple shape, on a sound, on an image (visualization), or by focusing on the breathing. (Colour breathing exercises can be done lying down or sitting and can be a very helpful form of meditation.) There are many very helpful tapes and CD's around to help with meditation as they will talk the listener through the stages of relaxation and some will help to build a 'picture' in the minds eye of tranquility. With practice, you will find it becomes easier and easier to meditate and to be able to 'switch off' any time, anywhere, when you are feeling the need for some peace.
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Breathing
Breathing is
very important - and as obvious as that sounds, it is
surprising how few of us actually do breathe 'properly'. Breathing is something
we all take for granted and are inclined to forget about. However, shallow
breathing can often be a symptom of stress. Similarly, shallow breathing can
result in fatigue and stress due to the intake of insufficient oxygen. Shallow breathing can also result in dizzy
turns as insufficient oxygen is getting to the brain. Since approximately 90% of
our energy is created by oxygen and nearly all the body's actions regulated by
it - it is rather important that we get enough of it!!
Go somewhere quiet and lie down or
sit in a chair with good back support so that your body is straight, allowing
you to breathe deeply and comfortably. Make sure you are not wearing any tight
clothing. Tell yourself to relax. Work on every part of your body from the top
of your head to your toes, consciously relaxing each part. Concentrate on your
breathing, taking deep in-breaths, through the nose, letting the breath fill
your body, relaxing and calming. Then breathe out through your nose or mouth,
exhaling all negativity and stress and ridding your body of the toxins which
build up there. Repeat this a number of times - if you can only manage 10
minutes that is fine. Eventually you will be able to practice this anywhere, any
time, when you are feeling stressed. Try not to hunch your shoulders as you
breathe in - try to consciously relax the shoulders and neck and breathe from
the abdomen - watch your tummy expand as you breathe in.
There are a number of breathing
techniques which are taught by practitioners of different disciplines, either on
a one to one basis or in a group, such as a workshop perhaps. If you have a particular medical problem,
then a good place to start is with your doctor, who will be able to advise you.
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Colour Breathing
A lovely and very helpful exercise
is Colour Breathing - or breathing in the rainbow. The purpose of this is to heighten our
awareness of colour and to encourage a balance of all the seven main chakra
colours for our well being.
Stand with feet slightly apart and
arms by your side, relaxed with palms turned to the front. Relax the shoulders,
and concentrate on your breathing, consciously relaxing all of your body from
the top of your head to the tips of your toes. Breathe deeply in through the
nose, holding for a few moments and then breathing out through the nose or
mouth. As you breathe out, imagine expelling all the stress, negativity and
toxins from your body. If you can do this exercise outside all the better, and,
weather permitting, stand on grass with bare feet.
Affirmations, either spoken out loud
or as a concentrated thought, can be helpful too to help us focus and avoid our
minds from wandering. For example, red is the Colour of courage and strength -
we could say to ourselves - the energy of red fills my body and I have the
strength and courage to move forward along my life's path. It doesn't matter how
we word our affirmations - they will be unique to each individual - but remember
the positive aspects of the colours and make sure your statements are
positive.
First breathe in red from the earth,
imagine it rising up through your whole body giving you strength and courage.
Make an affirmation to suit your situation as you breathe in and experience the
colour filling your body. Allow the colour to travel up through the body and out
of the top of the head and then back down again to the earth. Repeat with orange
and an appropriate affirmation, then yellow. These first three colours are
absorbed from the earth. Then green. This colour is absorbed horizontally
through the solar plexus, let it fill your body, thinking or speaking your
affirmation, and let it leave through the back. Then blue which is absorbed from
the sky, through the top of the head and out again going back up to the sky,
similarly with the indigo and violet.
If this exercise is done daily you
will notice how your colour awareness develops and you will be able to visualize
the colours much more strongly as you do this exercise regularly, balancing and
enhancing your body's energies.
Colour in the Home
There are
many variations of the basic colours. The paler versions give us the same
qualities as the bold colour but in a gentler way. When decorating an area - the complementary
colours, and their variations, should be remembered and combined with our main
choice of colour by way of soft furnishings perhaps, pictures etc.
It is also helpful to take in to
account the aspect of a room. For example, should you require a calming
atmosphere in a north facing room, which may well be one of the colder rooms in
your house, remember to use some warm colours (i.e. variations of the warm
colours of yellow, orange and red) to avoid the room feeling
colder.
Following is a table of colours and
their suggested uses in various areas.
Colour Effects Suggested
Violet: Calming for body and mind. Good for
meditation and prayer. Enhances purpose and dignity. Heightens our awareness and
helps us to give of our very best. Purifying.Indigo: Sedative. Helps to open up our intuition. The colour of divine knowledge and the higher mind. Blue: Calming, relaxing and healing. Not as sedating as indigo. Also the colour of communication. Green: Balancing, harmonizing and encourages tolerance and understanding. Yellow: Stimulates mental activity, feeling of confidence. Helpful for study as it helps us to stay alert. Orange: Warming and energizing. Can stimulate creativity. Orange is the colour of fun and sociability. Red: Energizing, exciting the emotions, stimulates appetite. Magenta: is the eighth colour in the colour spectrum and is a combination of red and violet, thus it combines our earthly self and spiritual self, thus balancing spirit and matter. It is uplifting and helps us to gain a feeling of completeness and fulfillment. Turquoise: Cool and calming and good for the nervous system and immune system. Pink: This colour soothes and nurtures. It helps to dissolve anger and encourages unconditional love. Black: Used with another colour enhances the energy of that second colour. Black gives us the space for reflection and inner searching. White: Contains all the colours. It emphasizes purity and illuminates our thoughts, giving us clarity. Areas of Use Violet: Places of worship, entry areas to clinics and hospitals, festival areas. Pale violet in bedrooms. Indigo: Not suitable for areas for entertainment but for more 'quiet' places. Bedrooms, treatment rooms. Blue: Any rooms except those used for physical activity or play. Green: Depending upon the shade, can be used for most areas. Use with other colours as well to avoid the balance and harmony becoming more like total inactivity and indecision. Yellow: Activity rooms, entrance halls. Not for bedrooms as can interfere with sleep - it tends to keep our minds "switched on". Not ideal for areas of possible stress. Orange: Any activity area and creative areas. Not ideal for bedrooms or areas of possible stress. Red: Any activity area. Needs careful choice of tone and depth and the space in which it is to be used. Can make a space look smaller and be claustrophobic. Used well, however, red can make a space feel warm and cosy. Often used in restaurants. Magenta: Lecture spaces, chapels, halls etc. Not ideal for play rooms or activity rooms. Turquoise: Any room except it is not ideal for activity areas. Pink: Ideal for a baby's or child's bedroom. Black: Not ideal as a single colour, but when used with care,can enhance and complement other colours in almost any situation. White: Any room, but it can be a little intimidating to some Needs to be broken up with another colour or with plants/ornaments/pictures etc. Babies It should be remembered that babies and very young children will be more sensitive to the effects of colour than adults and care should be taken with their room colours and their clothes. A baby's first experience of colour is in the womb where they are enveloped in pale peachy pink. This is where they have been nurtured and where they feel safe. Thus, decorating the baby's room in pale pink will help them feel safe in the outside world where they need time to adjust to their surroundings. Babies are very sensitive and should be kept in white clothing as long as possible and particularly for the first nine months. Special care should be taken when choosing the colour of a hat since a baby's head is particularly sensitive. Most experts will agree that the first nine months of a baby's life is so important in their development on every level - emotional, mental and physical. Keep the colours pale for a baby's room - pale pink, pale blue, pale violet, butter cream, white and ivory are all calming. credit: http://www.threeheartscompany.com/chakra.html |
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