Chandigarh, Nov 4: For centuries, yoga has been celebrated not just as a physical discipline but as a philosophy of life — a science that unites the body, mind, and spirit. While modern yoga often focuses on flexibility or fitness, the deeper yogic tradition speaks of the body as a vessel of energy, flowing through a network of subtle channels known as nadis. Within this energetic anatomy lie seven major energy centres — the chakras, each governing distinct physical, emotional, and spiritual functions.
The Sanskrit word chakra literally means “wheel” or “disk.” These wheels of energy are believed to spin within the subtle body, regulating life force (prana) and influencing our wellbeing. From the base of the spine to the crown of the head, each chakra corresponds to certain organs, emotions, and states of consciousness. When energy flows freely through them, balance and harmony prevail; when they are blocked or overactive, imbalance manifests as physical or emotional distress.
1. Muladhara — The Root Chakra
Located at the base of the spine, Muladhara (meaning “root support”) represents our foundation and connection to the Earth. It governs our sense of safety, stability, and survival instincts. Physically, it’s linked with the legs, bones, colon, and adrenal glands. When balanced, it gives a feeling of groundedness and security; when blocked, it can cause fear, anxiety, or a constant sense of instability.
Yogic postures like Tadasana (Mountain Pose) and Virabhadrasana I (Warrior Pose) help activate and balance this chakra by reinforcing strength and connection to the ground.
2. Svadhisthana — The Sacral Chakra
Just below the navel lies Svadhisthana, associated with creativity, sexuality, and emotional flow. It governs the reproductive system, kidneys, and lower abdomen. The sacral chakra is symbolized by the element of water, representing adaptability and movement.
When this chakra is open, creativity flourishes and relationships feel harmonious. A blocked Svadhisthana may manifest as guilt, rigidity, or emotional numbness. Hip-opening asanas like Baddha Konasana (Bound Angle Pose) and Upavistha Konasana (Seated Wide-Leg Forward Fold) help release tension in this region and restore energy flow.
3. Manipura — The Solar Plexus Chakra
Positioned above the navel, Manipura is the seat of personal power, confidence, and will. Associated with the digestive system and metabolic fire, this chakra is often called the “city of jewels.” Its element is fire, representing transformation and energy.
When balanced, Manipura fosters self-esteem, motivation, and clarity of purpose. An imbalance can lead to digestive problems, fatigue, or feelings of helplessness. Postures that strengthen the core — such as Navasana (Boat Pose) and Plank Pose — stimulate this fiery center, empowering one’s inner drive.
4. Anahata — The Heart Chakra
At the center of the chest, Anahata bridges the physical and spiritual realms. It governs love, compassion, forgiveness, and empathy. Its element is air — expansive and free-flowing. Physically, it influences the heart, lungs, and thymus gland.
A balanced heart chakra allows unconditional love and emotional balance, while blockages manifest as jealousy, grief, or isolation. Gentle chest-opening poses like Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose) and Ustrasana (Camel Pose) can awaken the heart’s energy and foster emotional release.
5. Vishuddha — The Throat Chakra
Vishuddha, meaning “purification,” sits at the throat and governs communication, truth, and self-expression. It’s associated with the thyroid gland, vocal cords, and respiratory system. When balanced, this chakra encourages honesty and clarity in expression; when blocked, one may feel unheard, struggle to speak up, or even experience throat-related ailments.
Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand) and Matsyasana (Fish Pose) are known to stimulate the throat region and purify the voice of expression.
6. Ajna — The Third Eye Chakra
Located between the eyebrows, Ajna is the seat of intuition, wisdom, and inner vision. It corresponds to the pituitary gland, eyes, and brain. Known as the “command center,” it governs insight and perception beyond the physical realm.
When Ajna is open, one experiences clarity, intuition, and deeper awareness. Blockages can lead to confusion or overthinking. Meditative poses such as Padmasana (Lotus Pose) and Balasana (Child’s Pose) enhance concentration and activate this intuitive chakra.
7. Sahasrara — The Crown Chakra
At the top of the head, Sahasrara represents spiritual connection and transcendence. It is the gateway to universal consciousness — the realization that the self is one with the cosmos. Its element is beyond the physical — pure consciousness.
An open crown chakra brings peace, unity, and enlightenment, while imbalance can lead to detachment or spiritual disconnection. Sirsasana (Headstand) and deep meditation practices help awaken this center of divine awareness.
The Body as Energy, Not Just Matter
In yogic philosophy, the body is not seen as a mere collection of organs and tissues but as a living energy field. Pranayama (breath control), meditation, and asanas together keep the chakras aligned, ensuring that prana — life force — moves freely.
“The body is the temple, and the chakras are its lamps,” says yoga teacher and therapist Dr. Vandana Menon. “When each lamp burns steadily, the mind becomes clear and the spirit luminous.”
Whether one approaches yoga as exercise or as a spiritual journey, understanding chakras offers a profound way to interpret the signals of the body and the emotions that flow through it. The yogic message is timeless — healing begins when energy moves in harmony, and balance is restored from within.
