Chakras are energy centers within the body that influence physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. For thousands of years, chakra teachings have appeared in ancient Indian spiritual systems, yoga traditions, meditation practices, and Ayurvedic philosophy. Today, chakras are widely used to understand mind–body balance, energetic healing, and inner alignment.
This pillar page explains what chakras are, summarizes their historical origins, and provides a complete chakra chart with meanings and functions of all seven major chakras.
What are Chakras?
The word chakra comes from Sanskrit and translates to “wheel” or “circle.” In spiritual traditions, chakras are visualized as spinning wheels of energy that run along the spine from the base to the crown of the head. Each chakra governs specific areas of the body, emotional patterns, and mental functions.
When energy flows freely through the chakras, the body and mind feel balanced. When a chakra becomes blocked or overactive, emotional or physical imbalances can occur. Yoga, meditation, breathwork, and energy healing are often used to restore chakra harmony.
How do Chakra Crystals work?
Each crystal emits a different vibration or frequency. For example, rose quartz emits soothing vibrations, while citrine emits uplifting energy.
These vibrations interact with the body's subtle energy field. When a chakra is out of balance or blocked, it can cause physical or emotional discomfort. Chakra crystals are thought to help restore balance by interacting with these energy centers.
History of Chakras
Origins in Ancient India
Chakras first appeared in early yogic texts known as the Upanishads (circa 600–300 BCE). These writings described the human body as an energetic system influenced by prana (life force). Chakra teachings expanded in later texts such as the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali and the Hatha Yoga Pradipika.
Tantric & Yogic Development
During the rise of Tantra (around the 8th–12th centuries), the chakra system was illustrated through detailed diagrams and symbolism. Each chakra was associated with colors, elements, deities, sounds, and geometric mandalas.
Modern Adaptation & Global Influence
In the 20th century, teachers like Swami Vivekananda, Sir John Woodroffe, and modern yoga schools introduced chakra philosophy to the Western world. Today, chakras are widely integrated into yoga, Reiki, meditation, therapy, and holistic wellness.
Root Chakra – Muladhara
Color: Red
Element: Earth
Location: Base of spine
Function: Safety, stability, survival, grounding
Mantra: Lam
Asana: Mountain Pose (Tadasana), Chair Pose (Utkatasana)
The Root Chakra represents foundation, physical identity, and the feeling of being secure. When balanced, you feel grounded, calm, and connected to the present moment.
Read More: Root Chakra
Sacral Chakra – Svadhisthana
Color: Orange
Element: Water
Location: Lower abdomen, below the navel
Function: Creativity, sensuality, pleasure, emotional expression
Mantra: Vam
Asana: Bound Angle Pose (Baddha Konasana), Goddess Pose
The Sacral Chakra governs desire, joy, creativity, and emotional flow. A balanced sacral energy enhances passion, inspiration, and healthy relationships.
Read More: Sacral Chakra
Solar Plexus Chakra – Manipura
Color: Yellow
Element: Fire
Location: Upper abdomen, stomach area
Function: Confidence, willpower, identity, motivation
Mantra: Ram
Asana: Boat Pose (Navasana), Warrior Poses
The Solar Plexus Chakra fuels personal power and inner strength. When open, it supports confidence, decisiveness, and strong self-esteem.
Read More: Solar Plexus Chakra
Heart Chakra – Anahata
Color: Green (sometimes pink)
Element: Air
Location: Center of chest
Function: Love, compassion, forgiveness, emotional balance
Mantra: Yam
Asana: Camel Pose (Ustrasana), Bridge Pose
The Heart Chakra connects mind and spirit through love, empathy, and compassion. Balanced heart energy promotes healthy relationships and emotional healing.
Read More: Heart Chakra
Throat Chakra – Vishuddha
Color: Blue
Element: Ether (space)
Location: Throat
Function: Communication, truth, self-expression
Mantra: Ham
Asana: Shoulder Stand, Plow Pose, Fish Pose
The Throat Chakra governs honest communication and creative expression. When balanced, it enables clarity, confidence, and authentic dialogue.
Read More: Throat Chakra
Third Eye Chakra – Ajna
Color: Indigo
Element: Light
Location: Forehead, between eyebrows
Function: Intuition, insight, imagination, perception
Mantra: Om or Aum
Asana: Child’s Pose, Eagle Pose, Meditation poses
The Third Eye Chakra is the center of intuition and awareness. A balanced third eye enhances clarity, insight, imagination, and spiritual perception.
Read More: Third Eye Chakra
Crown Chakra – Sahasrara
Color: Violet or white
Element: Cosmic energy / pure consciousness
Location: Top of the head
Function: Spiritual connection, enlightenment, higher wisdom
Mantra: Silent mantra or Om
Asana: Headstand, Lotus Pose, Savasana
The Crown Chakra represents higher consciousness, inner peace, and unity with the universe. When balanced, it brings spiritual clarity and deep inner harmony.
Read More: Crown Chakra
Why Chakras Matter
Chakras provide a framework for understanding emotional patterns, spiritual blocks, and energy imbalances. Many people use chakra work to support:
Emotional healing
Stress reduction
Improved focus and clarity
Enhanced creativity
Better relationships
Greater self-awareness
Spiritual awakening
Chakra alignment is not only a spiritual concept but also a holistic approach to improving overall well-being.