Chakras are energy centers in the auric field that correspond with specific areas of the body. They facilitate the flow of Chi, or life force energy, throughout our being. When they are unable to flow freely or become blocked; various mental, emotional and even physical symptoms can result. Many people work with the Chakras to facilitate whole being wellness.

There are Seven primary chakras that are aligned along the body. Each one has a specific color, symbol and different properties associated with it. Meditating and focusing on these energy centers can help restore positive energy, relieve stress and open one up spiritually to higher realms of awareness and deeper understanding.

Here is a list of the Seven primary chakras and their attributes.

The Crown: This chakra is located at the top of the head and is associated with the color Violet. It serves as a gateway between the physical and the spiritual realm, connecting us to Spirit and our higher self. This energy center opens us up to spiritual awakening and higher awareness. Meditation on this Chakra facilitates courage, selflessness and the ability to see the larger purposes behind one’s experiences. When this chakra is blocked, there may be energy disorders and issues with anxiety or depression.

The Third Eye: This chakra point is located between the eyebrows, in the center of the forehead. It is associated with the color Indigo and corresponds with intuition, higher intellect and reasoning ability. Focusing on this chakra leads us on a search for truth and teaches us to trust our instincts. This chakra is linked to the brain, nervous system and physical sense of sight, smell and hearing. Blockages in this chakra can lead to feelings of low self-esteem and an inability to be discerning and objective.

The Throat Chakra: This chakra is located in the center of the throat and is associated with the color blue. It is connected to speech, personal expression and communications. Meditating on this chakra can improve communication skills, help one connect with the authentic self, and can enhance any form of personal expression. Physically, this chakra is associated with the throat, mouth, teeth and thyroid. Blockages can lead to struggles with reaching personal goals and exercising strength of will.

The Heart Chakra: This chakra is located in the center of the chest and is associated with the color green. It is connected to ones emotional health and sense of well-being. Physically, it is associated with the heart, lungs and circulatory system. Meditating on this chakra can help enhance feelings of inner peace, promote forgiveness and karmic release, heal grief and also ease fears of loneliness. Blockages can cause emotional disturbances and self- centeredness.

The Solar Plexus Chakra: This chakra is colored yellow and located below the sternum an inch or two above the belly button. It is considered the umbilical cord to the universe and enhances our sense of connection with others and all that is. Physically, it is associated with the digestive system, stomach, liver, gallbladder and kidneys. Blockages may lead to chronic digestive issues and feelings of isolation and a weak sense of self or higher purpose.

The Sacral Chakra: The sacral chakra is located in the lower abdomen and is associated with the color orange. It is the center of creativity and personal power as well our sexual center that governs our intimate connections with others. Physically, this chakra is connected to the large intestine, sexual organs, pelvis and bladder. Blockages to this center can lead to a lack of creativity or passion for goals, and may also make it difficult to form solid boundaries with others.

The Root Chakra: This chakra is located at the base of the spine and associated with the color red. It is linked to our primal energy and survival instincts and helps to ground spiritual energy within the body. Physically, it’s associated with the legs, feet, bones and immune system. Blockages in this chakra can lead to chronic lower back pain, sciatica, obsessive compulsive disorders and extreme anxieties and fears. Meditation on this chakra can help open you up to a spiritual connection with life, while helping to overcome deeply rooted fears.

Working with the chakras regularly eases stress, promotes healing and opens us up to deeper realms of thought and understanding. Chakra meditations can be enhanced with specialty candles, oil blends and other items that help promote focus and awareness.