The chakras are a way of identifying, organising and balancing the energy of the subtle body. The subtle body is that part of us which isn’t physical, it’s our presence, our vitality, our sense of aliveness, the trust we have in ourselves and faith in the bigger picture. We speak about our energy often, although we may not notice or equate it to our subtle body. We may say we feel ‘at home’, or ‘grounded’. Maybe we feel as though our ‘feet haven’t touched the ground’ or that a situation has ‘discombobulated us’. Maybe we recognise tension or atmosphere within a room. Whatever language we use, we can begin to notice and relate to it, in deeper and more meaningful ways.
Each chakra is associated with a point within the body where we take in, assimilate, and release energy, each point corresponds to an area of the body and ascends from the base of the spine to the crown of the head with ever more subtle qualities. The skin, bones, organs, nerves, hormones and energy flow within each area can be affected by the quality of energy available, how well-nourished the energy is, how well we can assimilate and absorb it and how efficiently we can let go of that which doesn’t serve us. Focusing our Yoga practice on each chakra becomes about clearing physical space, unravelling the tensions and working into tight muscles in and around that area. We build strength and space within the system so that our subtle energy can flow un-hindered, and support the healthy function of the system.
The Chakras De-mystified is a journey through the 7 chakras over 7 classes. Beginning at the root chakra at the base of the spine, or muladhara chakra as it’s named in the yogic tradition, and working up to the Crown chakra, sahasrara chakra, at the crown of the head. The aim is to bring awareness to the subtle body in each of these areas, and the qualities of our own personal power within these areas.
Join me on this journey of energy, balance and personal connection.
