Chakra

Chakra is a Sanskrit word which literally translates to wheel or disk. In the Yoga philosophy, this term refers to energy throughout the body, or even refers to spiritual power in the human body. It contains bundles of nerves and major organs as well as our psychological, emotional, and spiritual states of being. In my experience in the study of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Chakra is similar to 3 major energy centers referred to as “Dan Tiens”, which literally means “Field of Treasure”: The navel (bodily energy), the Heart (emotional energy) and The Third Eye (metal energy). Similar to TCM’s meridian theory, when a blockage occurs along a meridian or Chakra, either due to injury, the build up to toxins and so on, the problems will arise and will eventually lead to major illnesses.
There are seven chakras in the body and it is important to keep the balance so that the energy can flow freely. Chakra is located in certain body parts and it corresponds to certain emotional feelings and colour. There are few Asanas and food that could heal or activate those Chakras as below.

Location Emotional Healing Method
Asanas Food
Muladhara
Our foundation and feeling of being grounded
Base of spine in tailbone area Basic survival needs such as financial independence, money and food Kundalini, bridge pose Red coloured food, hot spices, vegetables from the ground, red meat, eggs.
Svadhisthana
Our connection and ability to accept others and new experiences
Lower abdomen (two inch below the navel) Sense of abundance, well-being, pleasure and sexuality Pelvic thrusts, cobra Orange coloured food, nuts
Manipura
Ability to be confident and in control of our lives
Upper abdomen in the stomach area Self-worth, self-confidence and self-esteem Kundalini, boat pose Yellow coloured foods, grains and fiber, whole wheat bread, peppermint and chamomile tea
Anahata
Ability to love
Center of chest just above the heart Love, joy, inner peace Bikram Green leafy vegetables, green tea
Vishuddha
Ability to communicate
Throat Communication, self-expression of feelings and the truth Shoulder stand Juices and teas and fruits
Ajna
Ability to focus on and see the big picture
Forehead between the eyes Intuition, imagination, wisdom and ability to think and make decisions Child’s pose, forward bends Purple coloured fruits, chocolate, lavender flavoured spices or tea
Sahaswara
Ability to be fully connected spiritually
Very top of the head Inner and outer beauty, our connection to spirituality and pure bliss Meditation None but can benefit from breathing clean and fresh air and sunshine

JW – 200h YTT Jan-Apr 2016