Over the past year or so, I have occasionally run into the term "chakra" and was always curious to know what it meant. I finally decided to do some research on the topic, and now have begun to learn to be mindful of my chakras and the different energies they are responsible for as a part of my daily life. The belief of the seven chakras is an ancient tradition and has been a part of many different cultures and religions. There are seven points within our bodies that different energies flow through. These seven points are called chakras; it is believed that blocked energies within our chakras can lead to illness, both physical and mental. Therefore, it is very important to be aware and alert of them. Understanding and appreciating the seven chakras is an important step on the journey to spiritual enlightenment.

Root Chakra: The first chakra, located at the base of the spine, is called the root chakra. The root chakra represents our feelings of foundation and being grounded in our values and beliefs. It is important to open up this chakra in order to feel complete and sustained in everyday life.

Sacral Chakra: The second chakra, located in the lower abdomen, is called the sacral chakra. This chakra is responsible for many of our emotions such as pleasure and well-being. A blocked sacral chakra can lead to confusion and misreading of emotions.

Solar Plexus Chakra: The third chakra is located in the upper abdomen near the stomach. It is called the solar plexus chakra and is responsible for our feelings of self-worth, confidence, and self-esteem. Blockage of the solar plexus chakra can result in a lack of these feelings.

Heart Chakra: The fourth chakra is called the heart chakra and is located just above the heart. Simply put, the heart chakra is responsible for our feelings of love. When the heart chakra is blocked, feelings of love may have a very difficult time presenting themselves in a healthy way.

Throat Chakra: The fifth chakra is called the throat chakra and is located in the throat. It is responsible for our ability to communicate effectively. If this energy is blocked, one would have a very difficult time communicating thoughts and opinions.

Third-Eye Chakra:The sixth chakra is called the third-eye chakra and is located in the middle of the forehead. It is responsible for our ability to see the bigger picture rather than focusing on minuscule issues. If this chakra is blocked, one might be more focused on small, temporary things instead of being focused on longer term issues.

Crown Chakra: The last chakra is called the crown chakra and is located at the very top of the head. It is responsible for our ability to be fully connected to spirituality and pure bliss.

There are a few ways to focus on opening up the seven different chakras. I believe that the most effective way is meditation. Meditating for a set amount of time each day in a quiet setting (I prefer to be outside in nature) is the best way to focus on opening up each chakra to let the energy flow freely. Another way that I personally use to focus on my chakras is by burning incense specifically designed for each chakra while quietly thinking about whatever energy point I am focusing on that day.

Being able to focus on opening up each individual chakra is a great way to become more in touch with yourself and what is going on within yourself spiritually. Having an understanding of these things brings inner peace and an ability to handle life circumstances with more patience and understanding. However, meditation and opening up the chakras is something that has to be practiced, and patience is key. It will not happen overnight. Understanding the chakras is just a step on the journey to full enlightenment. Enjoy the ride and take it one step at a time!