Demystifying the Chakras

With Master Yogini, Author, Speaker, and Seeker Sarah Platt Finger

The chakras serve as junction points that connect the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of our being. They are associated with the five fundamental elements that make up existence: earth, water, fire, air, and space. The midbrain and crown chakras further connect to light and cosmic intelligence. Derived from the Sanskrit word meaning "wheel," chakras are situated along the spine’s central energy channel, known as the sushumna nadi. Each chakra has unique functions that contribute to an awakened and balanced life. 

The Seven Chakras: Their Meaning, Function, and How to Balance 

Just like the outer elements of nature, the elements within us can become imbalanced, leading to emotional, physical, or mental distress. Using sound (mantras), shapes (yantras), and color frequencies, we can harmonize these energy centers and restore peace. 

Through conscious awareness and intentional focus, we can align each chakra and, in doing so, harmonize ourselves with the subtle forces of nature that govern all of life. This alignment brings peace, clarity, and insight into every aspect of our lives.

Meaning: "Thousand-petaled lotus" | Element: Beyond elements

Function: Located at the top fontanel, this chakra relates to spiritual enlightenment and divine intelligence. It opens the doorway to universal consciousness and infinite possibilities. 

How to balance: Visualize a thousand-petaled lotus radiating out through the top of your head. Chant "Om" three times to awaken higher consciousness and infinite potential

Meaning: "Command center" | Element: Light

Function: Located at the eyebrow center, this chakra cultivates inner vision, imagination, and cognitive abilities. It enables us to perceive situations from a higher perspective and trust our intuition.

How to balance: Focus on a violet mist with an inner eye between your brows. Chant "Ksham" three times to enhance insight and inner vision.

Meaning: "Purification center" | Element: Space

Function: This chakra resides in the throat and governs communication and expression. It helps us articulate our truth, maintain clarity, and embrace inner silence.

How to balance: Visualize a white circle within a blue mist of light at your throat. Chant "Ham" three times to clear communication and balance the space element.

Meaning: "Unstruck" | Element: Air

Function: Positioned at the center of the chest, the heart chakra acts as a bridge between lower and upper chakras. It governs balance, connection, compassion, and the ability to give and receive love. 

How to balance: Envision a six-pointed star amidst a green light at the center of your chest. Chant "Yam" three times to cultivate balance and unconditional love.

Meaning: "City of gems" | Element: Fire

Function: Located at the navel center, this chakra symbolizes empowerment, courage, and willpower. It oversees our metabolic function and the digestion of our food, thoughts, and sensory impressions.

How to balance: Imagine a red inverted triangle within a yellow mist at your navel. Chant "Ram" three times to ignite courage and balance the fire element.

Meaning: "Abode of the self" | Element: Water

Function: Situated in the sacral region, a couple of inches below the navel, this chakra governs creativity, sensuality, and pleasure. It allows us to embrace our emotions and connect with the sensory world.

How to balance: Visualize a crescent moon within an orange light in front of your sacrum. Chant "Vam" three times to find your flow and balance the water element.

Meaning: "Root center" | Element: Earth

Function: Located at the base of the spine, this chakra relates to stability, security, and basic survival. It governs our foundational needs, providing a sense of grounding and steady presence.

How to balance: Focus on the base of your spine and visualize a golden square surrounded by red light. Chant the mantra “Lam” three times to ground yourself and balance the earth element.