Spinning Your Wheels: Introduction to the Chakras

Does the word "chakra" conjure up images of hippies in silky robes chanting around a cauldron of steaming herbs? Though it has been brought into the popular American vernacular via movies and TV commercials, most people do not know what or where the chakras are.

"Chakra" is Sanskrit for wheel. There are seven main chakras at points along the spine. When the chakras are in alignment and their energies are flowing and balanced, a person is in good health. When one or more chakras are malfunctioning due to mental, emotional or spiritual disease, we feel the effects as a physical ailment.
The 1st Chakra (located at the base of the spine) is related to our survival instincts and to our sense of grounding and connection to our bodies and the physical plane.

The 2nd Chakra (located in the lower abdominal) is related to emotions and sexuality. Ideally this chakra brings us fluidity and grace, depth of feeling, sexual fulfillment and the ability to accept change.

The 3rd Chakra (located in the solar plexus, the area in the hollow of your rib cage) rules our personal power, will and autonomy, as well as our metabolism.

The 4th Chakra (located in the heart center) when healthy allows us to love deeply, feel compassion, have a deep sense of peace and centeredness

The 5th Chakra (located in the throat) is related to communication and creativity. Blockages in this area can lead to problems with the throat and sinuses.

The 6th Chakra (located at the third eye point, between the eyebrows) governs the act of seeing, both physically and intuitively.

The 7th Chakra (located at the crown of the head) when developed brings us knowledge, wisdom, understanding, spiritual connection and bliss.