An Introduction to the Chakras
Many of us approach yoga from the pure physical opening. I know that I did. When I first started yoga, 13 years ago, I had a specific aim – to stretch my body and decrease the pain in my body. I am happy to say that it worked. The journey to the release was a lovely, bumpy and interesting one! I realized that the physical pain was connected to my emotions, my thoughts, my worries and all of the layers of pain that I had shoved down into my body. It was a foreign concept to me.
As a physician, 10 years of medical school did not give me this awareness. I had no idea that the pain someone is experiencing in their life was actually connected to their emotions. Yoga was truly life transforming. I had no idea that this information was even available.
When we look at the chakra system – the energy centers – we can see that this knowledge is actually documented and well studied. It is only in our Western Medical domain that we do not give credence to this beautiful, awe-inspiring study.
The chakra system or energy centers in our body often become blocked by long held tension and low self-esteem. Physical postures have been well studied that correspond to each chakra and when done regularly can release the block from the body. As a result, we are able to live free of these old fears that are often stagnating our life.
The 7 chakras are believed to be arranged in a vertical line from the base of the spine to the top of the head. Chakra is a Sanskrit word which means wheel and these wheels are believed to spin. Each chakra is actually associated with biological functions in our body.
Through understanding the chakra system, we can se that our external life and internal habits, life limiting concepts, self-esteem and chronic mental tension can produce imbalances in our chakras. When left over a period of time, these chakras do not spin as they should. As a result, if the imbalance is left it can result in an actual physical disease and dysfunction.
Chakras can be rebalanced through regular practice of yoga postures and meditation. This allows the energy to balance and allows any energy to clear.
Personally, I have seen the amazing affects of yoga and meditation on clearing many diseases, including thyroid disease, depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, stomach ulcers, chronic physical pain and more.
The practice of yoga is truly amazing and mind-boggling. Such an ancient art of healing has been well studied and documented in ancient texts. Western Medicine has its role, especially with the acute ailments.
If, however, you suffer from a chronic disease, it is more than likely related to an imbalance in your chakras that started many years ago. Regular practice can actually release and allow your body to step into its natural way of being.
Bottom line: role out your yoga mat, rain or shine, and practice. You will be glad you did!
About the Author
What Are Chakras? A Modern Guide to the Ancient Energy System
The chakra system is one of the most well-known yet misunderstood spiritual models in the world. To some, chakras are mystical wheels of energy. To others, they’re metaphors for the evolution of consciousness within the human body. Like the blind men describing an elephant by touching only one part, our individual experiences shape our understanding of what chakras are.
Chakras are a spiritual concept found in various Indian traditions, especially within Hinduism and Tantra, and refer to energy centers or points of spiritual power within the human body. The Sanskrit word “chakra” means “wheel,” and these centers are often envisioned as spinning vortexes of subtle energy. While not scientifically proven, many believe that chakras play a role in influencing emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. Practices like breathing exercises, yoga poses, and chakra meditation are commonly used to explore and balance these energy centers.
To explore a powerful symbol connected to these energy centers, check out this introduction to the Shri Yantra and its energetic significance.
