For those of you that come to class regularly, you know I have a mild (or not-so mild) obsession with the chakra system. The chakras are energy centers along the spine that represent the intersection between body, mind, and spirit (check out the photo). I work with the chakra system daily in my yoga and meditation practice and have found it to be one of the most transformative and all-encompassing systems to study. Here are the reasons why I find the chakra system so fascinating and life-changing:
The chakra system is organized in a way that makes sense. I like structure. I like outlines and excel spreadsheets. I learn best when things are presented in a logical, tangible, organized way. The chakra system is all of this. The system first addresses our most basic needs (safety, trust, security, etc.), then addresses higher level needs like self-worth and connection, and finally, the system addresses the highest human need of self-actualization.
The chakra system focuses on body, mind, and spirit- all in one. This system is efficient. It focuses on all aspects of our being at once. When I started studying and applying the knowledge of the chakra system to my life, the intersection of body, mind, and spirit became undeniable. This system teaches that everything that we experience in our physical bodies influences our emotional/spiritual health, and vice-versa. For example, when I have upper back pain, I look at issues coming up in my life related to the heart chakra (love, forgiveness, compassion, etc.). When I have problems with my teeth or gums, I reflect on things coming up in my life that relate to the throat chakra (i.e. honesty, speaking up for myself, listening to other people, etc.). In contrast, I also apply the knowledge of this system when I have a negative emotion present itself. For example, if I am feeling shame or guilt (sacral chakra issues) I include yoga poses in my practice that focus on the hips, sacrum, and pelvis to bring balance back to this energetic center.
The chakra system is for everyone. The chakra system is approachable for everyone. If focusing on elusive energy centers in your body sounds a little “new-age” and turns you off, you can still work with the universal life themes that the system presents. If you are totally interested and excited about the concept of the chakras, there is always something more to learn.
Wishing you health and happiness in your body, mind, and spirit.
With love,
Hana
p.s. I would love to practice yoga with you! Check out my free practice bundles HERE.