Chakras originated from India as early as 1500 BC and are still used to interpret physical, spiritual, and emotional problems. By learning how to strengthen our chakras, we become more connected to ourselves––emotionally and spiritually, learn to appreciate the world around us, and become physically healthier.
What Are Chakras?
Chakras, meaning wheel or disk, are centers of energy that run down the center of our body. Each chakra receives energy from heaven (like galaxies and constellations at night and the sun during the day) and earth––as the earth’s rotation gives off energy. If the chakras are balanced, then they will gain and release the right of amount of energy to keep your body, mind, and spirit healthy. On the other hand, if the chakras are losing too much energy or holding onto too much energy, it can lead to physical illnesses, spiritual instability, and emotional problems. That is why it is important to know how to strengthen chakras. Keep in mind, each chakra is connected to specific area of the body but they also work together. If one chakra is imbalanced then it can affect the others.
The 7 Types of Chakras
Here is a image of the seven chakras locations on the body.
All seven chakras have a physical and emotional expression. Here is a description of each one:
Crown Chakra (also called Sahasrara)
Crown chakra is located at the top of your head. This chakra is all about spirituality and feeling connected to the world around us. If the crown chakra is balanced then you will feel gratitude and thankful for the world and people around you. The symptoms of a imbalanced crown chakra is feeling isolated and alone. Physically you may not feel like yourself and have low energy.
Third Eye Chakra (also called Ajna)
The third eye chakra is located in between your eyebrows. This chakra is associated with awareness and consciousness. When your third eye chakra is balanced you feel clear minded and alert. If third eye chakra is not functioning properly, you may feel like you cannot remember information or struggle learning new skills. Physically you may have headaches, dizziness, or other brain conditions.
Throat Chakra (also called Vishuddha)
Throat chakra is associated with communication and expression of emotions. If the throat chakra is balanced, then you are able to listen and express yourself clearly. If your throat chakra is overactive or underactive, you may struggle to express yourself, stay focused, or pay attention. Physically you may have a sore throat, neck stiffness, or shoulder tightness.
Heart Chakra (also called Anahata)
The heart chakra is located in the middle of your chest. This chakra is involved in feelings of love, compassion, and healing. When the heart chakra is blocked, you may feel angry, grief, and jealousy. Physical problems that could occur are lung problems like shortness of breath, feeling weak, or chest pains.
Solar Plexus Chakra (also called Manipura)
The solar plexus chakra is located around your ribcage. This chakra is your wisdom and power energy. Solar plexus chakra is associated with deep emotions including the pit of your stomach feeling. When solar plexus chakra is blocked or overactive, you may have difficulty making decisions. Physically the solar plexus chakra is connected to stomach, digestion, and metabolism. Problems in theses areas means there needs to be an adjustment to recreate balance.
Sacral Chakra (also called Svadhishthana)
The sacral chakra is located below your navel. This chakra is responsible for our physical and creative energy. When sacral chakra is balanced, you will feel passionate, joyful, and friendly. However, problems with sacral chakra include feeling depressed, uninspired, and decrease in sexual desires.
Root Chakra (also called Muladhara)
The root chakra is located at the base of the spine. This chakra is your sense of security, trust, and feeling grounded. Root chakra underactive, meaning not getting enough energy, can leave you feeling scared, anxious, and extremely insecure. On the other hand, a root chakra overactive will make you feel overly aggressive or easily agitated. Physically the root chakra is connected to immune system, intestines, and sexual reproductive organs. If you feel pain or have problems in these areas, then your root chakra is imbalanced.
What Factors Either Weaken or Strengthen Chakras?
- Food and Diet
- Emotions
- Thoughts
- Sun
- Physical Activity
- Environment
How do Chakras Help You Understand Your Health?
By learning about the seven chakras, you can become more in tune with the natural energy cycles of your body. Adjust these factors especially food and physical activity and feel better and more energized during your day.
What Foods Weaken Your Chakras?
One of the biggest reasons a chakra becomes imbalanced is from diet. Foods you should avoid include:
- Animal and Dairy Protein
- Hard Baked Dry Foods
- Salty Foods (Learn more about salt and how to cook with it)
- Cold Iced Foods and Drinks
Process Foods or Foods with Chemicals (Read more about acidic vs alkaline diet)
How to Improve Your Chakras?
- Eat whole grains
- Eat plant-based foods (helps all chakras)
- Meditation or yoga
- Shiatsu Massage
- Take a walk and spend time outside
- Take time for your meals
Want to learn more? Chakras are discussed in our Advanced Macrobiotic Course. This course is a year long immersive program that covers all areas of macrobiotics. Leaving you a strong foundation in the understanding of macrobiotic practice. This course is taught by world-renowned counselors and teachers, Denny and Susan Waxman. If you don’t want to a course this long, we offer several other courses. Choose the one best for you!
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FYI, in case you want me to share it with you, I learned a variety of chaka-strengthening modalities, including laying-on of color-coordinated stone on chakras, one-touch pranic-healing, yoga headstand, etc, tai chi, sound therapy…