Takeaway: Try any one of these techniques today in order to balance one or more of your chakras.
The chakras are a fascinating aspect of healing in yoga. It’s said that there are seven primary chakras running along the midline of the subtle body; whirling vortexes of energy that are associated with specific vibrations in the cosmos. Our chakras, as well as these cosmic vibrations, affect our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health. The chakra system is fascinating. It’s a truly holistic method of healing.
It doesn’t have to take eons of time to balance the chakras, and you don’t have to visit an expert to experience healing; although, that’s always an option, too. The beauty of yoga is that it’s a self-healing modality and your chakras are no different. Repeating positive, healing affirmations over and over again is one such way to balance and align your chakras. You have the innate intelligence to balance them on your own. Here are some tips for balancing each chakra in an instant.
Root Chakra
Your root chakra, which resides at the base of your spine, has to do with feeling grounded in the world. It represents basic survival needs -- security, stability and protection. If you suspect your root chakra needs positive vibrations, you could repeat the following affirmation to yourself several times throughout the day: “I am safe. I am secure. I am always protected.”
This may sound too good to be true, but gardening is a powerful way to instantly balance your root chakra. Gardening promotes grounding to Mother Earth, and cultivates a deep sense of stability and protection from nature. If you suspect your root chakra is out of balance, go outside and pull some weeds. Plant some flowers in the earth. Or simply lie in the grass beneath the warm sun. (Learn more in Get Grounded Through 'Earthing.')
Sacral Chakra
Your sacral chakra is your center for passion, creativity, pleasure and sexuality. When balanced, we give and receive pleasure openly and freely. If your sacral chakra (which lives just below the navel) is out of balance, you may wish to repeat the following affirmation: “I receive pleasure and create what I desire in the world.”
To balance your sacral chakra, simply breathe into your hips. Roll your hips while sitting or standing. Get loose in your pelvis and feel your connection to your hips and your sensual center.
Solar Plexus Chakra
Your solar plexus chakra corresponds to your self-esteem, self-worth and ability to self-motivate and manifest. If your solar plexus chakra (located right above your navel) is lagging, you’ll want to repeat the following affirmation: “I am confident, worthy, and able to manifest what I want in my life.”
Because your solar plexus chakra is directly related to the sun and the fire element, expose your skin to some good old-fashioned Vitamin D. Soon you’ll be feeling calm, centered and confident.
Heart Chakra
Your heart chakra helps you have compassion and empathy for all sentient beings. When balanced, you give love and receive love without conditions. This chakra is located in the center of your chest -- just to the right of your actual heart. To balance your heart chakra repeat: “I give and receive love unconditionally.”
This probably sounds a bit simple, but hugging is a powerful way to balance your heart chakra. If you don’t have a human being around to hug, hug a pet. Your heart chakra will get an instant surge of light and love.
