Natural Health

The earliest known mention of the word ‘chakra’ dates back to 2500BC in the Hindu holy books, the Vedas. It comes from the Sanskrit meaning ‘wheel’ or ‘disc’ and relates to seven main centers said to act as valves for subtle energy – also described as ‘life force’, prana or chi. Although not physically detectable, each chakra is thought to be closely linked with a particular organ or hormone regulator in the body.

To understand how they work, imagine a garden hose attached to a tap. Once it is turned on, water should flow smoothly through the system. However, if the hose gets a kink in it, this affects the flow of the water coming out the other end. If this is left unattended for any length of time, it can cause damage to the entire system because of the build-up of pressure. The same is believed to apply to the chakras. When these subtle energy valves or discs are spinning freely we enjoy good physical, mental and emotional health. When they are blocked or dysfunctional we may experience symptoms of disease. Unbalanced chakras may be caused by unhappy childhood experiences, or even the karma – from previous lives – you are reincarnated with. Often they reflect unresolved psychological or emotional issues, such as low self-esteem.

The Rainbow Chakra System

As with crystals, each chakra vibrates at a particular frequency associated with a different color of the rainbow. That is why crystals and chakras are linked therapeutically. By knowing which crystal to place on which chakra to bring it back into balance you can help deal with various physical, mental and emotional problems.

First/root chakra

Associated with the adrenal glands that, among other things, produce adrenaline needed for our primitive `fight or flight’ response and relates to issues around survival and physical needs. When unbalanced, the root chakra results in fearfulness, low self-esteem, being too materialistic or having difficulty achieving goals. Its related color is red and can be balanced with any red or ‘earthy’ colored crystals, including hematite, bloodstone and tiger’s eye.

Second/sacral chakra

Connected to the sex organs, bladder, prostate and womb plus emotional issues around sexuality. Problems with this chakra’s functioning can lead to frigidity, impotence, over-sensitivity or manipulation in partnerships, unrealistic fantasies and sexual addiction. Orange is the associated color and key crystals include citrine, carnelian and golden topaz.

Third/solar plexus chakra

Linked anatomically to the pancreas, which lies behind the stomach and helps the effective digestion of food, as well as producing insulin to control blood sugar levels. Food-based allergies, obesity, stomach ulcers as well as power issues around anger, control and insecurity are all symptoms of a dysfunctional solar plexus. Vibrating to the colour yellow; useful crystals are citrine, aventurine quartz and sunstone.

Fourth/heart chakra

This is linked to unconditional love of self and others, and to physical symptoms such as high blood pressure, shallow breathing and heart disease. Blockages can lead to fear of rejection, co-dependency, low self-esteem and feelings of unworthiness. It shares the colors of pink and green, with crystals including watermelon tourmaline, rose quartz and jade.

Fifth/throat chakra

In addition to issues around self-expression and communication generally, this chakra is associated with the thyroid gland which controls the body’s metabolic rate. Any neck or hearing problems are said to be physical symptoms of a dysfunctional throat chakra, as well as problems with creativity and the ability to express emotions. Resonating to the colour blue, key crystals for this chakra include turquoise, lapis lazuli and aquamarine.

Sixth/third eye chakra

Situated just above and between the eyebrows, this chakra links to a gland influencing general body chemistry and is said to be connected with intuition. When not operating properly, it can cause headaches, poor vision, nightmares and learning difficulties as well as a fear of success. Indigo, its associated color, links with crystals such as amethyst, sapphire and calcite.

Seventh/crown chakra

The connection of this chakra is to the mysterious pineal gland, connected with the production of melatonin – the hormone that regulates our internal body clock, ensuring we get a good night’s sleep. It is also linked with depression, frustration and obsessions as well as chronic exhaustion, epilepsy and sensitivity to pollutants. Crystals that can help balance this chakra include clear quartz, amethyst and diamonds.

Working With Chakras

Many alternative therapies include an understanding of the chakras – particularly crystal healing and reiki. You may find a reflexologist or aromatherapist who works directly on balancing the chakras by using essential oils and focusing on particular subtle energy pathways or ‘meridians’. Meditation and visualizations using color are important tools in chakra balancing and are good self-help techniques. Some yoga exercises and gentle martial arts like tai chi also help maintain healthy chakras.

Chakra Work Is Good For:

• Digestive problems
• Chronic fatigue
• Headaches
• Poor vision
• Emotional imbalance
• Inability to express emotions
• Blocked creativity
• Personal growth
• Improving mental focus and clarity

Chakra Work:

AVAILABILITY – Limited

MEDICAL EVIDENCE – Sparse

MEDICAL ACCEPTANCE – Limited

SELF HELP – Possible