In yoga philosophy, the body is described as more than physical matter. According to subtle anatomy, energy channels (nadis) run through the body, and along the spine lie seven primary energy centers — the chakras.
1. Muladhara — Root Chakra
Location: Base of the spine
Element: Earth
Color: Red
The root chakra is about basic survival, safety, and grounding. When balanced, you feel stable, secure, and present. Work with it through standing poses like Tadasana and Virabhadrasana.
2. Svadhisthana — Sacral Chakra
Location: Below the navel
Element: Water
Color: Orange
The sacral chakra governs creativity, emotions, and sexuality. Hip-opening poses like Baddha Konasana and Pigeon Pose activate this center.
3. Manipura — Solar Plexus Chakra
Location: Solar plexus area
Element: Fire
Color: Yellow
This is where your personal power, confidence, and willpower reside. Core-strengthening exercises and twists stimulate Manipura.
4. Anahata — Heart Chakra
Location: Center of the chest
Element: Air
Color: Green
The heart chakra is about love, compassion, and connection. Backbends like Ustrasana and Bhujangasana open this center.
5. Vishuddha — Throat Chakra
Location: Throat region
Element: Ether
Color: Light blue
The throat chakra governs communication and self-expression. Shoulder stand and Fish Pose are classic poses for this chakra.
6. Ajna — Third Eye
Location: Between the eyebrows
Element: Light
Color: Indigo
Ajna is the center of intuition, insight, and inner wisdom. Meditation and Balasana (child's pose) with the forehead on the floor stimulate this chakra.
7. Sahasrara — Crown Chakra
Location: Top of the head
Element: Cosmic consciousness
Color: Violet/white
The crown chakra represents spiritual connection and enlightenment. Meditation and inversions work with this highest energy center.
Integration in Practice
Chakra work isn't about perfection but awareness. By understanding the seven centers, you can tailor your practice to what you need. In our yoga teacher training programs, we explore the chakra system in depth as part of the yoga philosophy curriculum.
