The word "chakra" comes from a Sanskrit word meaning, "wheel." Thinking of each of the chakras as a small, whirling orb of energy inside our bodies, would give you an accurate picture of what they are.

The human body contains many concentrated energy centers, which in turn make up the seven major governing centers or chakras. In each of these major centers, energy is transmitted to and from our bodies, much the same as our nervous system sends signals out to enable us to perform various tasks. What makes chakras function uniquely is that their energy radiates out and surrounds our bodies, strengthening the etheric or atmospheric energy waves that hover just above the surface of our skin. Yogic teaching tells us that this energy or force is known as prana, and it is the basis for the incredibly uplifting feeling of practicing a balanced Yoga routine.

From a scientific standpoint, electrical responses are known to happen regularly above and around our bodies, which are also known as galvanic responses. The chakras are the leaders of that same system of energy and it brings a significant boost to our physical and mental well-being to work with them and focus on making that energy powerful and protective. When the chakras are freely sending out and processing the current of prana, it creates a field around us that is also known as an "aura".


Names and Functions

Each of the seven chakras has a specific function, based on its location and what areas of the body it affects. As governing energy centers, the chakras have the ability to heal and strengthen us from head to toe, both internally and externally.

Sahasara: Crown Chakra. Located at the top of the head, this chakra relates to the cerebral cortex, central nervous system, pineal gland, muscular and skeletal systems and the skin. Things related to the self; our identity as individuals, our aspirations and awareness are influenced.

Ajna: Third Eye or Brow Chakra. Situated between the eyebrows, this is associated with the brain, neurological system, ears, eyes, nose, and pituitary gland. Our emotions are governed by this energy center.

Vishuddha: Throat Chakra. This represents the center of our will, and is located in the throat and neck. It governs functioning of the throat, mouth, thyroid, trachea, vocal chords, parathyroid glands, teeth and gums. It's related to verbal expression and communication. Honesty and the ability to convey our thoughts to others are related to this chakra.

Anahata: Heart Chakra. Located at the center of the chest, this is our love center. It governs the heart, breast, lungs, upper back and shoulders. Matters of deep emotional attachments are influenced by this energy.

Manipura: Solar Plexus. Situated below the chest and above the navel, this chakra sends energy to the stomach, intestines, pancreas, liver, gall bladder, kidneys and middle spine. The arms and hands are affected. This is where our ego lies, and our sense of self-esteem and the image we have of ourselves are both nourished by this chakra.

Swadhisthana: Sacral Base or Navel Chakra. Located in the abdominal area below the navel, this governs our pelvis, reproductive organs, prostate and spleen. Sexual energy emanates from this chakra, along with those emotions that can be detrimental to relationships.

Muladhara: Root Chakra. Sitting at the base of the spine, this brings prana to our adrenal glands, spinal column, colon, immune system, legs and feet. Our ability to identify with and be part of the material world is influenced, as is our sense of stability and security. Family ties can be made stronger with this energy.

Using knowledge of the chakras as part of a Yoga practice is a mentally enlightening and physically healing experience. The body is made stronger by absorbing energy where it needs it most and the mind becomes more peaceful and aware of our own wants and needs and those of our loved ones as well.