Chakras 101

Hinduism recognizes seven major chakras (among as many as 88,000!) that run along the spine to the crown of the head. According to some Eastern traditions, learning how to balance these energy centers can optimize energy flow to fuel and sustain aspects of your life and your body.  Let's take a look at location, color and meaning associated with each of these major chakras:

THE SEVEN MAJOR CHAKRAS
Root: Just below the base of your spine | red | manifestation
Sacral: In your abdominal region | orange | emotions, friendship, self worth
Solar Plexus: Approximately two fingers above the navel | yellow | personal power
Heart: Centered in the chest | green | love
Throat: Around the area of the “Adams Apple” | blue | creativity
Third Eye: In-between the eyebrows | indigo | psychic ability
Crown: At the top of the head | violet | enlightenment and positive energy

ACTIVATING YOUR CHAKRAS
The first step in activating your chakras is to cleanse them. This can be done by sitting comfortably in a quiet setting. Then simply visualize the areas of the body along with their corresponding colors while being mindful of the breath. Start at the root chakra and slowly make your way up to the crown. That’s it! 

If you’re like me, though, and tend to have an overactive mind then you will likely find a guided meditation very helpful. There are many out there, but I personally love this one from Belinda Davidson. Her soothing voice is ultra relaxing and I’m a sucker for an Australian accent. Now, if I could just figure out a way to keep from nodding off!