chakras | A non-woo-woo introduction

Chakras are symbols of the body-mind connection. Originally cited thousands of years ago in sacred Hindu texts, known as the Upanishads, chakras run along your spine and link directly to your endocrine system. Particular thoughts and emotions can affect energy flow to a specific chakra, which can then create an imbalance of prana (energy) flow to the corresponding nerve-bundle, major gland/organ.

An example of this that many people can relate to is experiencing ‘butterflies in your stomach’ when you are about to do something that challenges your confidence and self esteem – such as public speaking. Thoughts around how you will be perceived by others and a disruption to your confidence can have a very real affect on the body – particularly the solar plexus area (below the ribcage and above the navel - manipura chakra). This creates what is referred to as a chakra blockage. It should be noted that not all emotions create such an obvious visceral reaction in the body, and most people in modern society are disconnected from their bodily sensations, and it is not always obvious. Yoga helps to develop this internal awareness (interoception).

So basically, each of your main chakras harbours bundles of nerves and major organs as well as your psychological and emotional states of being. A blockage in any one of your seven chakras can lead to illness, so it’s important to understand exactly where each chakra is located and its role in your body.

It’s important to regularly check in with yourself and look for any signs of suboptimal prana flow. Under or overactive chakras can have a ripple effect.
​The good news is that equilibrium can be restored with simple targeted yoga practices.  We will share more on this in future posts.