Chakra

Chakra is a Sanskrit word meaning "wheel" or "circle." In yogic and Hindu philosophy, chakras are described as centers of subtle energy within the body, typically depicted as spinning wheels or lotus flowers positioned along the central channel (sushumna nadi) of the spine.

The Seven Main Chakras

Root Chakra (Muladhara): Located at the base of the spine. Associated with safety, survival, and groundedness. Color: red.

Sacral Chakra (Svadhisthana): Located below the navel. Associated with creativity, pleasure, and emotional flow. Color: orange.

Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipura): Located at the upper abdomen. Associated with personal power, confidence, and transformation. Color: yellow.

Heart Chakra (Anahata): Located at the center of the chest. Associated with love, compassion, and connection. Color: green.

Throat Chakra (Vishuddha): Located at the throat. Associated with communication, self-expression, and truth. Color: blue.

Third Eye Chakra (Ajna): Located between the eyebrows. Associated with intuition, wisdom, and perception beyond ordinary senses. Color: indigo.

Crown Chakra (Sahasrara): Located at the crown of the head. Associated with consciousness, connection to the divine, and enlightenment. Color: violet or white.

Chakras in Yoga Practice

Different yoga styles engage with chakra theory to varying degrees. Kundalini Yoga works extensively with chakra awakening through specific kriyas. Vinyasa teachers may reference chakras thematically. Many modern yoga practitioners appreciate chakra framework as a map of psychological and emotional experience rather than a literal energy anatomy.