The Chakras: Seven Sacred Centers

A chakra (Sanskrit for “wheel”) is a center of energy in the subtle body or “astral body”, which is connected to both the physical and emotional bodies.

There are seven main chakras and each has its own individual color, mantra (sacred sound), and associated qualities. The chakras are each associated with an area of the body and a set of health concerns and emotional issues.

 

Sahasrara Crown Chakra Enlightenment Sound: (Silent) Element: Inner Light Physical: Muscular, skeletal, and nervous systems, genetic disorders; brain; paralysis Mental/Emotional: Inspiration, trust, faith; selflessness; humanitarianism; fulfillment; free will; values; ethics; decision making

Ajna Head/Third Eye Chakra Intuition Sound: OM Element: Inner Sound Physical: Neurological disorders; brain; seizures; vision; headaches; hearing; learning disabilities Mental/Emotional: Confusion; paranoia; closed-mindedness; anxiety; intuition; wisdom; imagination; visualization

Vishuddi Throat Chakra Expression Sound: HAM Element: Ether Physical: Mouth; throat; speech Mental/Emotional: Expression; inspiration; creativity; communication; speaking up for oneself

Anahata Heart Chakra Love Sound: YAM Element: Air Physical: Heart; lungs and breathing; breast cancer Mental/Emotional: Love and relationships; anger; criticism; forgiveness; self-centeredness; compassion; empathy; nurturance

Manipura Solar-Plexus Chakra Autonomy Sound: RAM Element: Fire Physical: Intestinal and digestive systems; ulcers; eating disorders; liver; pancreas; kidneys Mental/Emotional: Trust issues; self-confidence; self-respect; self-control; willpower; independence; fear of responsibility; authority issues

Svadisthana Spleen Chakra Intimacy Sound: VAM Element: Water Physical: Prostate and bladder; skin disorders; allergies; sexual and reproductive problems Mental/Emotional: Money; guilt; control; abandonment; sex; sexual or emotional abuse; relating to people; intimacy; sharing

Maladhara Root/Base Chakra Survival Sound: LAM Element: Earth Physical: Sciatica; varicose veins; lower back pain; rectal problems; hemorrhoids Mental/Emotional: Physical necessities (food, shelter, etc); living situations; commitment; loyalty; career; growth; family; childhood neglect and abuse