16/09/2024
Introduction to the Chakra System
What are ? 🌈 Chakras are recognized as energy centers in many ancient spiritual traditions. The most commonly known system in the West acknowledges seven main chakras, but in other traditions, there are references to 8, 12, or even 114 chakras. 🌿 Chakras are believed to correspond to key points where the body’s nerve plexuses converge, making them powerful centers for physical, emotional, and spiritual healing. 💫
What Are Chakras in Different Systems?
7 Chakra System (Western Yoga): The seven chakras we most often hear about in the West are rooted in ancient Indian traditions, specifically Ta**ra and Ayurveda. This system recognizes seven primary energy centers aligned with the spinal column. These seven chakras correlate with major nerve bundles and endocrine glands, which is why they are seen as critical points of healing.
More Than Seven Chakras: Some systems, such as certain Tibetan Buddhist and Ta***ic traditions, acknowledge chakras beyond the seven, referring to eight, nine, twelve, or even 114 chakras. For instance, Kundalini yoga sometimes refers to an eighth chakra known as the “Aura,” which represents the electromagnetic field around the body.
Lesser-Known Chakras: In Siddha and Kriya yoga, there are up to 114 chakras, including 72,000 subtle energy channels (called nadis) that are believed to transmit life force energy (prana). While only a few chakras are typically focused on in most practices, each system offers a unique perspective on the body’s energy fields.
Chakras are often associated with the major nerve plexuses (complex networks of intersecting nerves) that run along the spine. For example:
The Root Chakra is linked to the sacral nerve plexus, which governs the lower body’s muscles and organs.
The Solar Plexus Chakra corresponds to the celiac plexus, a key network of nerves in the abdomen.
The Throat Chakra aligns with the cervical plexus, impacting areas like the throat, neck, and shoulders.
Stay tuned as we go deeper into the chakras over the next 2 weeks.
**raYoga