If you take pure light and shine it through a prism the light will break into a spectrum of seven colors. This spectrum is the foundation of every visible color that we know. Each color has a specific vibration. Red has the longest wave link and the slowest vibration frequency. Violet has the shortest wave link and the fastest frequency, then all of the colors in between. This basic knowledge is the basis for understanding the Chakras. Modern science has shown us that certain colors can stimulate certain activity and other colors can calm the mind.
The word Chakra comes from the Sanskrit word meaning wheel or vortex. There are seven major Chakras (energy centers) located from the top of the head down through your spine. the first Chakra is located at the base of the spine, 2nd between the navel and pubic bone, 3rd is the solar plexus, 4th is the heart, 5th is the throat, 6th is the space between the brows and the 7th is the crown chakra, just above the head. These energy centers function as pumps or valves, regulating the flow of energy on a vibratory level. We open and close these energy centers when we decide what to think, and what to feel, and how we choose to perceive and experience the world around us.
Not only do Chakras draw in energy, they also radiate at a certain color vibration and govern the major organs and glands connected to other body parts that resonate at the same frequency. Each Charka also has specific traits. For example, the first Chakra, the root Chakra, is located at the base of the spine and vibrates red. It is powerfully connected to our ability to manifest security and stability for our basic survival needs. If this Chakra is blocked an individual may feel fearful, anxious, insecure, and frustrated. The organs associated with this Chakra are the lower spine, legs, hips, feet, rectum, and immune system.
When a Chakra is out of sync, it may affect the organs or glands it is connected to, causing imbalances. A chakra can come out of balance when it is overactive, under-active, or blocked. Things that can cause imbalances include our diet, personal habits, our thoughts, the chemicals/toxins in our environment and food, etc. These imbalances are almost always felt on a physical, mental, or emotional level.
A few helpful tips on keeping the Chakras more balanced: wearing clothes according to which Chakra you would like to open, eating foods the same color as the Chakra, getting enough sunlight, yoga and breathing exercises, quick meditations in the morning, and Reiki. Understanding the Chakras allows you to understand the relationship between your consciousness and your body, and thus see your body as a map of your consciousness. It gives you a better understanding of yourself and those around you.
Paige Schneider is a Yoga & Reiki Teacher. You can find her teaching courses at the Women’s Healing Center in Abita Springs, at Bayou de Zaire Yoga, and on Tuesdays & Thursdays she teaches a donation-based yoga class at Bogue Falaya Park at 8 am. Find out more by checking her website, www.naturalhealingLA.com.
