Chakras are energy points or knots in the subtle body. They are located at the physical counterparts of the major plexuses of arteries, veins and nerves. Chakras are part of the subtle body, not the physical body, and as such are the meeting points of the subtle (non-physical) energy channels. Chakras are often referred to within the context of energy healing and energy medicine such as Reiki and chakra healing can be enhanced by the use of essential oils (applied directly to the energy center/chakra area of the body).
If you are new to the term “chakra” there are seven primary energy centers/chakras in your energetic body. Here is a quick run-down:
Crown Chakra: The last primary energy center, the Crown chakra, is located a couple inches above the top of your head. The Crown chakra represents spirituality and connectedness to all things.
Third Eye Chakra: The Third eye is located low on the forehead, a little above your eyebrows. The Third eye represents insight, intuition, wisdom, intelligence, and psychic development.
Throat Chakra: Next is the Throat chakra. The throat chakra represents communication, expression of feelings, your ability to effectively convey the meaning of your words.
Heart Chakra: Your Heart chakra is located in the center of your chest. The heart chakra represents unconditional love, nurturing, and compassion.
Solar Plexus Chakra: The Solar chakra is located in the center of your torso, about six inches below your heart. The Solar chakra represents your courage, vitality, confidence, and personal power.
Sacral Chakra: The Sacral chakra is between your hips, a couple inches below your navel. The Sacral chakra represents creativity, manifestation, sexuality, and emotional connection to others.
Root Chakra: Your Root chakra is an energy center located at your tailbone. The root chakra represents your connection to the Earth, your tribe or family, and survival issues.
It is believed that our thoughts and actions are absorbed through each chakra. When negative energy flows through a chakra it begins to spin too fast or too slow, making it unbalanced. This can effect us both physically, emotionally and spiritually. Massage, reflection, meditation and energy work using essential oils can help restore balance to each of the chakras.
Pairing Essential Oils with Chakras
Listed below are single oils you can use to help balance the various chakras- these are suggestions only as there are many oils to choose from each having their own therapeutic value. When anointing oneself with an oil at each chakra point, reciting a prayer or positive affirmation sets the intention.
- Crown Chakra: use palo santo or frankincense applied to the top of your head
- Third Eye Chakra: use rosemary or lavender applied between the eyebrows
- Throat Chakra: use lemon or roman chamomile applied to the throat area
- Heart Chakra: use rose or jasmine applied to the chest area over the heart
- Solar Plexus Chakra: use ginger or basil applied between the navel and the rib cage
- Sacral Chakra: use patchouli or ylang ylang applied slightly below the naval
- Root Chakra: use cypress or sandalwood applied to the soles of your feet
Keep in mind that some essential oils may best be used diluted so always follow the directions on the label. If you choose to ingest oils, be sure to use therapeutic grade essential oils that state the oils are ingestible on the label as well. Always consult with your physician about healthcare and healing issues when you are considering alternative approaches.
Originally published in the Jersey Shore August issue of Natural Awakenings
Purchase quality essential oils HERE.
I also created my own Essential Chakra Chart that can be downloaded HERE.
