How to Use Chakras for Self-Development

Discover what are chakras, and how they can be used on your journey of self-development. Find out what affects the chakras, what is a blocked chakra, and what is a clear chakra. Learn more about each of the 7 main chakras in this blog series.

Chakra Meaning & Definition

“Chakra” is the traditional name given to the seven principal energetic centres found in the human body. The word chakra comes from the Sanskrit language and can be translated as ‘wheel’, ‘cycle’ or metaphorically as ‘wheel of time’, ‘wheel of dharma’. Hindu traditions were the first to explore the subject of chakras. They were originally referred to as meditative visualisations, which supported the understanding of how the energy flows in the body.

The concept of chakras as energy centres has also been found in various cultures around the world. The Western world adopted and adapted certain notions regarding chakras, associating them to numerous esoteric systems. The use of chakras for self-development as we use it today has been adapted and interpreted by Western culture, and is originally of Eastern origin. Their consideration for self-knowledge and introspection does not interfere with religious beliefs, but complements them very well. The energies and associations of the chakras can be interpreted from a psychological perspective of well-being as well.

 

Chakras & Self-Development

Knowledge of the chakra system can help broaden your perspective on life, and give you essential key points to consider along your journey of self-development. By understanding these different types of energies, and acknowledging when one is out of balance, we are better placed to consciously respond instead of instinctively react to life’s challenges.

When an energy centre in your body is not functioning optimally, it causes discomfort and suffering. Emotional, physical and psychic effects seem to restrict our energy flow, and impact our overall well-being. This series of articles on the chakras will focus on the emotional and psychic body – but be aware that blocked chakras can lead to very real physical symptoms. On this blog, we address the symbolism of emotional and psychic behaviors and sentiments, which will give you amazing food for thought for self-reflection and self-analysis.

 

What Affects the Chakras

Our chakra centres work together symbiotically and are impacted by energetic disruptions. Emotional energy can bring the chakra system in overdrive. One can be drained, over-react, and generally act in a way that is counter-intuitive to genuine happiness, as compensation for emotions that have been repressed for too long, for example. Going to the root cause of our suffering helps us develop awareness of deeper issues, and face the world with more clarity. It also gives us more lucidity to address the underlying issues we are facing.

Each chakra deals with a specific sphere of life, and can be thrown off balance by particular occurrences, depending on their emotional impact. For example, the Root Chakra which deals with our connection to the physical world, is thrown off balance if our sense of safety and security in the world is compromised. Each chakra is covered more in depth in separate articles, accessible further down on this page.

 

Blocked Chakras & Clear Chakras

When chakras are ‘clear’, their energy circulates freely and a harmonious relationship exists between the mind, body and soul. When chakras are ‘blocked, energy can be said to be stagnating or lacking in certain chakras, which leads to imbalances of the harmony between the mind, body and soul. An imbalance is usually reflected by specific emotions or lived experiences.

Do note that one chakra imbalance can easily play with the equilibrium of other chakras… and that as continually evolving beings, we are constantly juggling with imbalances, in one form or another. New life lessons will take place, inviting you to consider their impact on your energy, and integrate more knowledge. Make sure to attune yourself to your intuition and internal guidance as you go through this process. You are the best person to evaluate how things are affecting you in your life.

 

The 7 Chakras

By reflecting on these energy centres, I wish to offer tools in regards to self-analysis and self-development, which I consider the most beautiful work we do here as human beings. The 7 main Chakra energy centres are listed below. Click on the respective links to learn more about their individual meanings and associations, and see why you would want to work on them.

• The Crown Chakra – Divine Connection
• The Third Eye Chakra – Wisdom
• The Throat Chakra – Expression
• The Heart Chakra – Harmony
• The Solar Plexus Chakra – Inner Light
• The Sacral Chakra – Home
• The Root Chakra – Survival

 

Chakras & Gemstones

Each chakra is attributed specific colors, scents, gemstones, and other similar associations. You may use specific talismans to connect to your intentions, and your desire to work on the energy centres of your choice. A rule of thumb is that you should always consider what you are naturally, intuitively drawn to. This is not a question of aesthetics; you will naturally find yourself drawn to things that will correlate to energetic principles you may want to focus on. Enjoy exploring the use of chakra concepts on your self-development journey!