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Chakras

Many people who study yoga think that along with the physical body, there exists a subtle energy system or energy channel. They believe that there are three main channels which are called ida, pingala and susumna, and that these run in and around the spinal column, from the crown of the head to the base of the spine.

Along these channels sit the chakras, which are divided into seven main wheels or discs. Chakras are often described as prana centres and are depicted as spinning wheels of light. Each chakra has a colour associated to it and correlate to specific parts of the body; as well as to emotional and spiritual well-being. During the practice of yoga, prana is encouraged to flow through the chakras, increasing and balancing these subtle “wheels of light”, while having a positive and healing effect on the mind, body and spirit.

The seven chakras are:
  • Mulahara (red): grounding, stability, stamina, motivation, self-confidence, purpose, passion, excitement. (Base)
  • Svadhisthana (orange): joy, respect for oneself, release (of stored negativity), creativity, cheer, pick-me-up, happiness. (Sacral)
  • Manipura (yellow): cleansing, cheer, happiness, upliftment, ego, will power, energy, focus, enthusiasm, self-worth. (Solar plexus)
  • Anahata (green): balance, harmony, peace, abundance, love yourself, release (heart related emotions), growth/ new beginnings. (Heart)
  • Vissudha (blue): release of physical tension, communication, peace, healing, honesty, calming, cleansing, express oneself. (Throat)
  • Ajna (indigo / magenta): wisdom, protection, vision, responsibility, understanding, seeking, power. (Brow)
  • Sahasrara (purple): clarity, cleansing, clearing negativity, universal energy, has all colours within it, pureness. (Crown)

During a yoga practice, we encourage prana upwards through the chakras to the crown chakra and the seat of enlightenment.
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