The chakras are often described as the body’s subtle energy centers, each representing a unique aspect of our physical, emotional, and spiritual selves. When energy flows freely, we feel grounded, creative, purposeful, connected, expressive, intuitive, and expansive. When blocked or imbalanced, they can reveal where attention and healing are needed.
This seven-part series explores the chakras from root to crown, offering insights into their meaning, signs of balance or imbalance, and practical ways to harmonize them through yoga, meditation, and daily life.
Whether you’re just beginning your journey or revisiting with new awareness, these reflections are here to support you.
Introduction to the Chakras
The chakras are a map of the body’s subtle energy—points where physical, emotional, and spiritual forces intersect. First described in ancient yogic texts, the seven primary chakras align with the spine, from the base to the crown of the head.
Each chakra is more than a concept, it is an invitation to explore yourself in new dimensions: grounding, creativity, purpose, love, expression, intuition, and connection with the divine. When energy flows freely, the chakras support balance and growth. When blocked or imbalanced, they can reveal areas where healing and attention are needed.
In this seven-part series, we’ll journey through the chakras one by one, exploring their meaning, signs of balance or imbalance, and ways to harmonize them through asana, breathwork, meditation, and daily practice.
The insights shared here draw on collaboration with Harpinder Kaur Mann, RYT-500, trauma-informed yoga teacher, mindfulness educator, and author of Liberating Yoga, whose guidance has been adapted to speak to practitioners of all levels.
Let’s begin from the roots and move upward.
Mūlādhāra: The Root Chakra
Explore the foundation of safety, stability, and connection to the earth. Practices for grounding and balance begin here.
Svādhiṣṭhāna: The Sacral Chakra
The seat of creativity, sensuality, and emotional flow. Learn to embrace change with ease and joy.
Maṇipūra: The Solar Plexus Chakra
Ignite your inner fire. This chakra governs confidence, willpower, and purposeful action.
Anāhata: The Heart Chakra
The heart center is where love and compassion flow. Discover practices to open the heart and nurture connection.
Viśuddhi: The Throat Chakra
Learn to express yourself clearly and authentically. This chakra is the gateway of communication and truth.
Ājñā: The Third Eye Chakra
Awaken intuition and inner vision. The sixth chakra invites you to see beyond the surface and trust inner wisdom.
Sahasrāra: The Crown Chakra
Complete the journey with the crown chakra, the center of transcendence, unity, and spiritual awakening.
Contributor Spotlight:
Harpinder Kaur Mann, RYT-500 (she/her), is a trauma-informed yoga teacher, mindfulness educator, and author of Liberating Yoga: From Appropriation to Healing. Rooted in her Sikh lineage from Punjab, India, and based in Los Angeles, she has over a decade of experience teaching yoga as a practice of healing, liberation, and connection. Harpinder is the co-founder of the Womxn of Color Summit and a leading advocate for decolonizing yoga, fostering accessibility, and honoring yoga’s origins. Learn more at www.harpindermann.com.
