As promised, this week we begin our exploration of the chakras! Before diving into each one individually, let’s start with an overview—what chakras are, where they come from, and why they matter in our yoga practice and daily lives.

The Origins of the Chakra System

The concept of chakras originates from ancient India, deeply rooted in the traditions of yoga, and Ayurveda. The earliest references to our energy lines are in the Vedas, ancient Sanskrit scriptures dating back over 3,000 years. The system was further developed through yogic philosophy, particularly in texts like the Upanishads and the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. Over time, various traditions, including Tibetan Buddhism and Chinese medicine, incorporated similar ideas of energy lines, centers, and meridian lines, demonstrating a universal understanding of the body’s energetic nature.

What Are Chakras?

In yoga, asanas (physical postures) and pranayama (breathwork) help us move energy throughout the body. When we breathe, the air we take in transforms into prana—our life force energy—also known as chi in other traditions. This energy travels through channels in the body called nadis (similar to meridian lines in acupuncture), creating a dynamic flow that supports our overall well-being.

At certain points in the body, these energy lines converge, forming powerful vortexes known as chakras—which translates to “wheel, disk, or shield” in Sanskrit. Each chakra is a spinning energy center responsible for specific aspects of our physical, emotional, and spiritual health. When our chakras are open and energy flows freely, we feel balanced and vibrant. However, blockages or imbalances can lead to discomfort, stress, or illness.

The Seven Major Chakras, Their Colors, and Frequencies

Energy moves from the base of the spine (Root Chakra) up to the top of the head (Crown Chakra). Each chakra resonates at a specific frequency, which corresponds to both sound and color. The color associated with each chakra is the color that vibrates at the same wavelength, which is why different hues can have a profound, energetic effect on our bodies and minds. This is also why you can physically feel the resonance of crystal singing bowls in your body when they are played, as they harmonize with your energy centers.

Root Chakra (Muladhara) – Red

• Located at the base of the spine, this chakra governs safety, security, and survival.
• The color red has the longest wavelength, representing grounding and stability.

Sacral Chakra (Svadhisthana) – Orange

• Found below the navel, this chakra influences creativity, pleasure, and sexual energy.
• Orange resonates with passion, movement, and emotional flow.

Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipura) – Yellow

• Located in the upper abdomen, this chakra is linked to confidence, willpower, and personal identity.
• Yellow, with its bright, activating energy, represents personal power and transformation.

Heart Chakra (Anahata) – Green

• Situated at the center of the chest, this chakra represents love, compassion, and connection.
• Green is the color of balance and harmony, reflecting the heart’s ability to give and receive love.

Throat Chakra (Vishuddha) – Blue

• Found in the throat, this chakra governs communication, truth, and self-expression.
• Blue resonates with clarity, honesty, and the power of voice.

Third Eye Chakra (Ajna) – Indigo

• Located between the eyebrows, this chakra is associated with intuition, insight, and inner wisdom.
• Indigo vibrates with deep perception, heightened awareness, and spiritual vision.

Crown Chakra (Sahasrara) – Violet/White

• Positioned at the top of the head, this chakra connects us to higher consciousness, spirituality, and universal energy.
• Violet and white hold the highest frequency, symbolizing enlightenment and divine connection.

Why Understanding Chakras Matters

Each chakra holds a wealth of wisdom about ourselves, helping us uncover patterns, heal imbalances, and unlock our full potential. By working with movement, breath, sound, and color, we can bring these energy centers into alignment and restore balance in our lives.

As we journey through each chakra in the coming weeks, we’ll explore ways to activate, balance, and harmonize these energy centers through yoga, breathwork, sound healing, and meditation.

Stay tuned as we dive deeper into the Root Chakra next week—our foundation for safety, stability, and grounding!