This guide to chakras covers everything you need to know about unblocking these wheels of power. Get your energy flowing with our simple tips!
Alright, Honeys, it’s time to dive into the fascinating world of chakras. We get that the concept of “spiritual healing” might raise a few eyebrows, but believe us: understanding your chakras can truly be a game-changer. These energetic centres have been revered for centuries in Eastern spiritual traditions, referring to spinning wheels of life force, known as “disks” in Sanskrit. Chakras run up the core of the body, with each one governing different aspects of our health and well-being. By recognising imbalances and adopting simple rituals to restore harmony, you can tap into the profound benefits these energy centres offer. Whether you’re into crystals, meditation, or other alternative healing modalities, there are numerous ways to get your chakras back in tip-top shape. Explore how you can start optimising your flow with our chakras guide today!
Find your flow with our easy chakras guide
1. Muladhara (root chakra)
Linked to our primal needs and instincts, the root chakra is all about feeling safe, secure, and grounded. Located at the base of the spine, this energy centre is associated with our survival, physical stability, and connection to the natural world. When it’s balanced, you feel a deep sense of belonging and purpose, with a healthy work ethic and ambition driving you forward. But if the root chakra is blocked, you may struggle with anxiety, insecurity, or even physical issues like digestion problems and joint pain.
To rebalance your root chakra, start by grounding yourself through meditation. Visualise roots extending from your tailbone, sinking deep into the earth and allowing stabilising energy to flow upwards through your body. Engaging in physical activity is another great way to activate this energy centre – try walking barefoot in nature, practising grounding yoga poses like Mountain Pose, or incorporating strength-building exercises you enjoy. And while you’re moving your body, make a conscious effort to repeat affirmations that reinforce your sense of safety, security, and belonging, like “I am safe and secure.”
2. Svadhisthana (sacral chakra)
Found in the lower abdomen, the sacral chakra is all about embracing your emotions, indulging your senses, and tapping into your innate creativity. This vibrant energy centre governs our relationships, sexuality, and pleasure – so when it’s balanced, we feel inspired, sensual, and able to freely express ourselves. But with a blocked sacral chakra, we may find ourselves grappling with issues like irritability, repressed desires, or a lack of inspiration.
To keep your sacral chakra flowing, embrace the fluidity of the water element. Spend time immersed in a warm bath, pool, or ocean, visualising any blockages dissolving as the water cascades over you. You can also try sipping a cup of hot tea, as the heat helps to break up and disperse stagnant energy. And don’t be afraid to get your body moving – dance in particular can be a powerful way to access the creative, sensual energy of the sacral chakra.
3. Manipura (solar plexus chakra)
Think of the solar plexus as the power centre of your chakra system, the source of personal strength and self-assurance. Located in the upper abdomen, this yellow energy point is all about your ability to take charge, achieve your goals, and shine your unique light on the world. When it’s balanced, you feel decisive, capable, and brimming with willpower. On the other hand, a blocked solar plexus can leave you struggling with issues like digestive troubles, low self-esteem, or an overly controlling attitude.
Breaking repetitive patterns in your life is one of the best ways to step out of powerlessness. Try to step outside of your comfort zone and experience something new each day. Since the sun is the element associated with the solar plexus chakra, getting outdoors on a sunny day is a simple way to recharge this energy centre. You can begin opening yourself to the invigorating energy of the sun by taking a 15-minute walk first thing in the morning and enjoying a beautiful sunrise.
4. Anahata (heart chakra)
Influencing our capacity to love, receive love, and express compassion, the heart chakra serves as the emotional epicentre of our being. Positioned at the centre of the chest, this green energy point is all about fostering a sense of connection – to ourselves, our loved ones, and the world around us. When in harmony, it brings about feelings of joy, forgiveness, and an openness to both give and receive affection. Conversely, an imbalance of the heart chakra can lead to issues such as feelings of solitude, isolation, or struggles in maintaining healthy emotional boundaries.
A daily gratitude practice is one of the best exercises you can do to open up your heart chakra. So, make it a habit to jot down a few simple things you’re grateful for each day – even small daily joys can make a big difference! And remember: forgiveness is an act of self-love that helps the heart receive as well as give. Try smiling at strangers, complimenting loved ones, and letting go of old grievances – these small acts of kindness can work wonders for keeping your heart chakra open and thriving.
5. Vishuddha (throat chakra)
Having a balanced throat chakra is all about feeling free to express your truth and authentic voice. Located in the throat, this blue energy centre governs communication, self-expression, and your ability to be heard. When it’s flowing, you’ll feel confident speaking up, sharing your ideas, and advocating for your needs; whereas a blocked throat chakra can leave you feeling timid, unable to be fully honest, or like your voice is stifled.
Tapping into the ancient power of chanting is a wonderful way to open a blocked throat chakra. The vibrations created by vocalising mantras and affirmations like “I speak, I express” help open up this energy centre, activating your potential. And don’t be afraid to find a room with great acoustics and just sing, hum or chant out loud – connecting to your authentic voice in this way can be immensely healing. Additionally, regularly journalling can help you dig deeper into your thoughts and feelings, allowing you to give voice to any bottled-up truths.
6. Ajna (third eye chakra)
This mystical indigo energy centre rules intuition, insight, and vision – both literally and metaphorically. When your third eye chakra is balanced and flowing, you’ll feel tapped into your higher wisdom, with the ability to see situations clearly and make discerning choices. You’ll also unlock your psychic senses more easily, picking up on hunches and vibes effortlessly. But when stuck, it can leave you feeling foggy and uncertain, unable to access your deeper knowledge.
To activate your third eye chakra, start with a meditation focused on visualising an indigo light pulsing at your forehead – this tunes you into the energy of this chakra. Exploring your dreams can also provide intuitive downloads, so keep a journal by your bed and record any subconscious insights. The symbols and scenarios that unfold as you sleep often hold clues about yourself and your path forward. Additionally, try sun gazing at dawn or dusk. This ancient practice involves meditatively looking at the rising or setting sun to energise your spiritual connection, mental clarity, and vitality.
7. Sahasrara (crown chakra)
Illuminate your spiritual side with the crown chakra. This violet energy centre at the top of your head governs your connection to the divine, higher power, and unconditional love – the highest frequencies of all. When your crown chakra is balanced and open, you’ll feel profound purpose, wisdom, and awareness radiating from your being. However, it’s crucial not to overlook the lower chakras. Keeping the root, sacral, and solar plexus chakras aligned and flowing actually creates the energetic channels for your crown chakra to thrive.
There are many profound ways to awaken your crown chakra. The key is tapping into the powerful silence at its core. While stillness can feel intimidating at first, especially for those accustomed to constant activity, making space for solitude is essential for activating this energy centre. Remember: you don’t have to be a monk on a mountaintop to access the crown chakra! Even brief moments of stillness and silent awareness throughout your day can help you reconnect to your core essence.