Subtle energies / Chakras
In hatha yoga, the spine is what is thought of as the core. It is the central channel of energy, and contains a lot of power, and movement.
Energy that thrives deep within the spine is the chakra system.
Chakra is defined a wheel. These wheels spin clockwise, correspond with many systems in the body, and have emotional and physical attributes as well. Health or mental condition can affect the energies in a big way.
There are Seven main chakras:
Muladhara chakra= base of the spine “root” It is the foundation, seat of will and courage, stability, home, food, survival. When in balance, there is a grounded sense, and a feeling of security. Here it is easy to be patient, calm and confident. When out of balance, energy can become scattered, decisions become difficult, and sense of urgency and greed can dominate.
The element is earth
The color associated with it is red
The seed sound or mantra associated is Lam
>Svadisthana chakra= is in the sex organs, and the navel. It is the center of sex, creativity, procreation, family, inspiration. When in balance, movement through life seems effortless, accepting things as they arise is simple, there is a natural unfolding , the beauty in the world is vibrant, and the pleasure and appreciating sexuality and sensuality feels beautiful. When out of balance, the mind becomes stagnate, workaholic tendencies can take over, sexual disfunctions could occur, and connecting with others and with feelings seem impossible.
The glands associated are the adrenals
The element is water
the color is orange
the sound is Vam
>Manipura chakra: represents the ego, and is the emotional center, housing fear, anger, and shame. It is action oriented, and when in balance transformation and personal growth happen, taking risks are fun, assertion of self in a warm and loving way is natural. When out of balance, obsessive compulsive can take over, digestive issues , and perhaps eating disorders may be present with a tendency to lean towards perfectionism. It is also extremely hard to let go of anything.
The gland associated is the pancreas
the element is fire
the color is yellow
the sound is ram
>Anahata chakra: is the heart center, where unconditional love, joy and compassion reside. Joy, and light radiate out brightly when in balance. When out of balance, life is spiritless, and is emotionally stuck. The head leads rather than the heart, there is a lack of trust , and it is easy to become quite self centered.
Gland associated is the thymus
element is air
color is green
sound is Yam
>Vishuda chakra: is about speaking and hearing truth, it is about voice and communication, higher knowledge and inner truth. When out of balance, neck and shoulder tension, can develop, as well as TMJ, hypo, and hyperthyroidism, sore throat. Emotionally one can have an inability to speak in public, or will go the other way and talk entirely to much.
glands associated are the thyroid and the parathyroid
element is ether
color is blue
sound is Ham
>Ajna chakra is the third eye. Located between the two eyes, slightly above the brow. When developed and in balance this center is a place of great insight and wisdom. Problems arise with excessive ajna energy, such as headaches, dizziness, that distract, and make it impossible to concentrate.
gland associated is the pineal
no element is associated
The color is indigo
the sound is OM
>Sahasrara chakra: crown chakra, It is associated with the highest functions of the mind, and divine consciousness, and transcendence. Balance brings insight, and gives an ability to see a greater meaning in existence. Connection of the body mind and spirit is possible. When out of balance, Skepticism and lack confidence, as well as apathy can enter in creating a space in the mind where nothing seems to matter.
no gland is associated
no element
The color is all colors
no sound