The 7 Chakras: What They Are and What Role They Play

Chakras are energy centers that regulate our physical, emotional and spiritual balance. According to Indian tradition, there are seven main chakras along the spine, each with a specific function that affects our general well-being.

If you've heard of chakras but aren't sure what they are or how they work, this article provides a clear, in-depth guide to understanding them better.

What are chakras?

The term "chakra" in Sanskrit means "wheel" or "vortex" and indicates the points of intersection where vital energy flows in our body. When the chakras are in balance, energy flows freely, allowing us to feel vital and serene. If, however, a chakra is blocked or unbalanced, physical, emotional or psychological disorders can manifest.

Knowing the chakras and how they work can help us work on ourselves to improve our well-being. Each of them is linked to a color, an element, an emotion and a specific function. Let's see what they are and what role they play.

What are the 7 chakras and what function do they have?

Muladhara – The Root Chakra

The first chakra, called Muladhara, is located at the base of the spine and is related to security, stability and a sense of belonging. It is the energy center that connects us to the earth and to basic needs such as home, food and protection.

When it is balanced, we feel stable and secure. If it is blocked, we may feel anxious, insecure, and afraid of abandonment. The body may also be affected, with problems in the legs, feet, and large intestine.

To rebalance it, it is useful to practice grounding techniques such as walking barefoot on the earth, meditating or using black or red stones such as red jasper.

Svadhisthana – The sacral chakra

This chakra is located below the navel and is the center of emotions, creativity, and sensuality. It governs pleasure and the ability to enjoy life's experiences, including interpersonal relationships and sexuality.

If the second chakra is blocked, we may feel emotionally unstable, uninspired, or have difficulty expressing our emotions. The body may also show signs of imbalance, with problems in the reproductive system and kidneys.

One way to rebalance it is to engage in creative activities, dance, or work with crystals such as orange quartz and tiger's eye.

Manipura – The Solar Plexus Chakra

Located between the sternum and the navel, the solar plexus chakra is the center of our inner strength, determination, and self-confidence. When it is in harmony, we feel confident and capable of facing challenges.

If unbalanced, however, we can experience anxiety, insecurity and fear of judgment. On a physical level, it can cause digestive disorders and metabolic problems.

To restore its balance, we can practice yoga, affirm positive phrases and work with crystals such as pyrite or citrine.

Anahata – The Heart Chakra

Anahata is located in the center of the chest and is the connection point between the lower chakras, related to matter, and the upper ones, related to spirituality. It is the chakra of unconditional love, compassion and harmonious relationships.

When it is balanced, we feel open, loving, and at peace with ourselves and others. If it is blocked, we may experience fear of love, difficulty trusting others, or suffer from emotional dependence.

Working with rose quartz, practicing gratitude, and using rose or lavender essential oils can help rebalance the heart chakra.

Vishuddha – The Throat Chakra

This chakra is the center of communication and authentic expression. It is located in the throat and governs our ability to speak the truth, listen, and communicate clearly.

When in balance, it promotes open and sincere communication. When blocked, we may have difficulty expressing our ideas or feel suffocated by emotions. On a physical level, it can manifest itself with thyroid problems, throat inflammation or neck tension.

To rebalance it, it is helpful to sing, write or work with stones such as lapis lazuli and amazonite.

Ajna – The Third Eye Chakra

Located between the eyebrows, the sixth chakra is the center of inner vision and intuition. Ajna governs our ability to perceive reality more deeply and listen to our inner wisdom.

When it is balanced, we feel clear and intuitive, capable of making informed decisions. When blocked, we may have difficulty concentrating or feel confused.

Meditation and the use of crystals such as amethyst or sodalite can help stimulate this chakra.

Sahasrara – The Crown Chakra

The last chakra is located at the top of the head and is the center of connection with the universe and spirituality. It is associated with higher awareness and a sense of oneness with all that exists.

When Sahasrara is active and balanced, we feel inspired and in harmony with the world. If it is blocked, we may feel disconnected or aimless.

Meditation and the use of rock crystal can help rebalance this energy center.

Conclusion

Chakras profoundly influence our life, our well-being and our emotions. Knowing how they work allows us to consciously work on ourselves to live in harmony.

If you feel that one or more chakras are blocked, you can try to rebalance them through practices such as meditation, yoga, the use of crystals and essential oils.