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Chakra
Chakras (from Sanskrit chakra, "wheel") are the seven energy centres that, in the Indian yoga and tantra traditions, run along the spine from the base of the body to the crown of the head. They are described in the texts of medieval tantric yoga and were popularised in the West by theosophy and twentieth-century New Age culture.
The seven main chakras
1. Muladhara (root, perineum, red, grounding). 2. Svadhisthana (sacral, lower abdomen, orange, creativity, sexuality). 3. Manipura (solar plexus, abdomen, yellow, will). 4. Anahata (heart, green or pink, love, compassion). 5. Vishuddha (throat, blue, communication, truth). 6. Ajna (third eye, forehead, indigo, intuition, vision). 7. Sahasrara (crown, top of the head, violet or white, spiritual connection).
Scientific status
Chakras are not anatomical organs verified by medical science. They are symbolic maps of the subtle body described by the yogic tradition. Associated practices (yoga, meditation, mantras, breathing) have documented effects on the nervous system, stress and wellbeing, but chakras are not "activated" in a physical sense.
FAQ
Are chakras real organs?
No, they are symbolic maps of the subtle body used in yoga and tantra.
Can you "open" them?
In yogic traditions you work on the chakras with meditation, mantras, asanas and pranayama. The effects are relaxation and awareness rather than a verifiable "opening".
Is it compatible with other traditions?
The chakra system is specific to Indian traditions. Other cultures have different models of the subtle body (Chinese meridians, Hebrew kabbalah).