Though the knowledge of their power and importance has existed in the practices of Hinduism and Buddhism for thousands of years, the idea of chakra alignment and care is relatively new to many people. Often, we cannot pinpoint the cause of our anxiety, or low energy, or feeling of being stifled. If this sounds like something you have experienced, it may be a blocked connection to your energy centers.
When you are just beginning to work with your chakras, it is advised that you start at the Root chakra and then progress your way up; though many diagrams show them positioned from the head down, this is merely an aesthetic representation. Energy flows through all chakras, and it is impossible to realize spiritual wellness if you don’t even have the vitality of a healthy body or sense of purpose first!
Caring for your chakras at a time of upheaval or growth is not a simple process, so be sure to take the time to work on each individually and feel secure in your development, before moving on to the next center. If you feel that you are in an intermediate state of transitional energy though, feel free to pinpoint the chakra you feel needs attention and work from there.
Muladhara: Root Chakra
The Root chakra resides at the base of your spine and is the seat of your vitality. In the plainest terms, it is your health and energy, which means if it is out of alignment, you are no doubt feeling tired and uneasy in your body. When ignored, this will slowly begin to manifest as low self-esteem and chronic health issues.
Self-care for the Root chakra: Adequate rest, hydration and low impact exercise are the first steps to caring for your Root chakra. Focus on nourishing your body with not only healthy foods, but ones that give you joy to eat them; savor every bite, since this should not only be caloric energy to fuel your body, but emotional energy to fuel your personal growth. Essential oils like cinnamon or nutmeg are good stimulants for this chakra, as they evoke a sense of comfort. Once you have started to heal this energy center, you should begin to feel well-rested and confident, with more overall energy.
Root Chakra Daily Affirmation: “I believe that good health is my natural state, and I accept this blessing”
Svadhishthana: Sacral Chakra
Your Sacral chakra which influences creation and pleasure. Though many assume this chakra relates solely to carnality, it holds more domain over your enjoyment of life. If this chakra is blocked, you may feel uninspired & as though you have no creative spark. Left for too long, these feelings can devolve into despair, and an inability to problem-solve.
Self-care for the Sacral chakra: Engage in small activities that you derive pleasure from- something as simple as a bath or a massage will immediately begin to heal this chakra. Be present in the experience, and let your mind wander as you do; banish any negativity or stress, and only allow yourself to focus on the creative or inspirational ideas that come to you during this time. You’ll begin to equate self-care with healing and seek it out more often to motivate yourself once this chakra is in alignment. Utilize essential oils like sandalwood or lemongrass to bolster your sense of relaxation.
Sacral Chakra Daily Affirmation: “I am capable and strong. I embrace my potential.”
Manipura: Solar Plexus Chakra
Believed to influence your journey of self-discovery, your Solar Plexus houses this chakra. It also influences your drive, and how you motivate yourself. When this chakra has been neglected, you might feel frustrated or helpless. Over time, this can begin to manifest as anger or a sense of being lost.
Self-care for the Solar Plexus chakra: Challenge yourself. By pushing yourself beyond the boundaries of fear that are stifling you, you will start to awaken this dormant energy. Whether it is doing something that scares you, like singing at karaoke or setting a goal you previously thought yourself incapable of achieving, you will begin to remove the energy blockage in this chakra. Scents like lemon or ginger will embolden you to take more chances, and awaken your passion for growth. Developing this chakra will create a sense of accomplishment and leave you energized to continue pushing your boundaries.
Solar Plexus Chakra Daily Affirmation: “I am a being of light. I value myself. I trust myself. I embrace myself.”
Anahata: Heart Chakra
A very powerful chakra positioned at the Heart, it correlates to your balance and sense of connection to influences outside of you – usually other people. If this energy is blocked, you’ll fail to feel a sense of trust or empathy. If not healed, these will intensify into jealousy, selfishness or hatred.
Self-care for the Heart chakra: Begin a practice of appreciation. Whether this means keeping a daily gratitude journal, actively speaking only out of kindness, or even engaging in charity work, create a sense of positive reinforcement by acknowledging the good in the world instead of the bad. After you have started to heal this chakra, you will form stronger relationships with the world around you, and feel a better sense of love & acceptance. Rose and geranium oils promote a feeling of gentleness.
Heart Chakra Daily Affirmation: “I love and accept myself as I am today.”
Vishuddha: Throat Chakra
Believed to be a seat of satisfaction and expression, this chakra resides in your Throat. If you often feel like the “words get stuck in your throat” or that you are not being heard, there is a chance this chakra is blocked. Without attention, this can begin to manifest as feeling misunderstood, or unappreciated.
Self-care for the Throat chakra: Focusing on forms of self-expression that don’t rely on words can be the key to navigating a blockage in this energy. Many creative outlets like dance or music allow you to articulate things that are beyond words. Even something as small as wearing a color that you feel conveys your emotional state is empowering. Sage and chamomile essential oils will soothe your nerves, and allow you to present yourself with confidence. Once you have the belief that you do not need to speak to be heard, your ability to communicate will flourish & allow you to feel that you are recognized.
Throat Chakra Daily Affirmation: “I am confident and grounded. I own my power”
Ajna: Third-Eye Chakra
Also known as the Third-Eye, this chakra is found between your eyebrows is an energy center along with the seat of the mind. Having this chakra out of alignment will lead to a lack of personal insight and indecisiveness. When not dealt with carefully, these can become self-doubt and fear.
Self-care for the Third-Eye chakra: Expanding your world view will stimulate this chakra, and allow you to begin reframing your life. It can be something as simple as reading a book on a topic you know nothing about or involve attending a lecture or speech on something that falls outside of your current beliefs. Once you have healed this energy center, you will be more expansive in your thoughts & capable of solving problems with fresh ideas. Scents that enhance enlightenment, like patchouli or frankincense, will help you process all the new information you’re integrating.
Third-Eye Chakra Daily Affirmation: “I believe and trust in my wisdom. I am open to the truth of the world.”
Sahasrara: Crown Chakra
Located at the Crown of your head, this chakra is your spiritual center. When this energy is blocked, you may feel a general sense of unease manifesting as restlessness or confusion. If allowed to stagnate for too long, this will lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and apathy.
Self-care for the Crown chakra: Visit an awe-inspiring place of peace. Whether you derive these feelings from being in nature, or a monument like an art gallery or museum, allowing yourself to feel the power of creation is humbling and opens you up to the universe. Energizing your spiritual center creates a positive loop of mindful expression and self-fulfillment. Being serene in these moments is key, so utilize the power of jasmine or lavender to calm yourself. Once you have healed this chakra, you’ll begin to feel inner peace- a true sense of belonging and acceptance of your place in the world.
Crown Chakra Daily Affirmation: “I am at peace with myself, and honor this divine energy.”
With this guide to caring for your chakras and increasing positive energy flow, you’ll start to feel like yourself once again as you connect with your mind, body, and soul. Remember that work like this takes time and effort, so be sure to embrace each stage fully, and ensure you feel confident with the work you have put into each chakra before moving on to the next one.
Happy healing!
Related Article:Understanding Yin & Yang: A Philosophy of Balance