Rewards of Chakra Meditation in Yoga Class

The word "chakra" comes from Sanskrit for "spinning wheel" and is defined as a vortex of energy that supplies prana, or vital life energy, for physical, mental, and spiritual health. Starting at the bottom of the spine and progressing to the top of the head, the chakras overlap the central nervous system and serve as an ethereal double for the physical body.

As psychic energy travels upward through the seven major chakras, the body opens to spiritual awareness in a process known as a kundalini awakening. It is suggested that beginners receive formal instruction before taking this practice home. This type of meditation could be practiced by experienced practitioners or with the supervision of a qualified Yoga teacher.

The Seven Major Chakras

Each chakra is associated with emotional and physical conditions related to that specific area of the body. There is also a color and a musical note that relates to each, and these are often used in chakra meditations.

1. Root - red

2. Sacral or Spleen - orange

3. Solar Plexus - yellow

4. Heart - green

5. Throat - blue

6. Third Eye- indigo

7. Crown - violet

Chakra Meditation

Chakra meditation is much like any other meditation, but concentration is placed individually on each chakra, starting with the root and moving upward. Usually three to four minutes are spent on each, but the meditation practitioner may intuitively know that longer is needed on one or more chakras. The entire process may also be repeated for more powerful results. Although not necessary, guided and musical meditations are particularly effective when visualizing energy passing through the chakras.

Benefits of Chakra Meditation

Thoughts and feelings are stored in the chakras. In order to prevent blockages and health-related complications, it is necessary to release them. Chakra meditation not only discharges old emotions and thinking patterns, but it also makes room for new growth and creativity.

There are specific benefits related to balancing each chakra:

• Root - physical security

• Sacral - emotions, sexuality, creativity

• Solar Plexus - center of personal power

• Heart - feelings of nurturing and loving

• Throat - communication, self-expression

• 3rd Eye - intuition, creativity, spirituality

• Crown - oneness with the universe

While each chakra has its own essence, all work together to create a balanced life. Energy rises from the base and moves upward, but it can only move through chakras that are clear and strong. Chakra meditation is one of the most effective ways to open the flow of consciousness and create harmony of mind, body, and spirit.