Chakras, energy centres and subtle self-awareness — as an ancient tradition and a path to more inner mindfulness.
Many people know ikigai as the "four-circle diagram"—but that's a Western invention. Find out what the term really means here.
Ikigai is a Japanese concept that explores one’s personal purpose in life and the reason for getting up in the morning. It describes the intersection of what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can do to make a living. Finding one’s own ikigai is often described as a path to deeper fulfillment and inner balance.
The root chakra, Sanskrit <em>Muladhara</em>, is considered the first and most fundamental of the seven main chakras. Energetically, it is located at the tailbone and is associated with themes such as security, grounding, trust, and a sense of belonging in life. A balanced root chakra can serve as the foundation for all other energy centers.
Chakras are energy centers in the human body that originate from the yogic and tantric worldview of India. The Sanskrit word roughly translates to “wheel” or “circle” and describes swirling energy points along the body’s centerline. In energy work, it is believed that these centers can influence physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
In the Tantric and yogic traditions, Kundalini is a dormant primal force that is figuratively described as a coiled serpent at the base of the spine. When this energy awakens and rises through the central energy channels (nadis), it is said to open all the chakras one after another—culminating in union with universal consciousness at the crown chakra. This concept is considered one of the most profound in spiritual practice.
The third eye chakra, Sanskrit <em>Ajna</em>, also known as the “third eye,” is the sixth major chakra. Energetically, it is located between the eyebrows and is associated with intuition, inner wisdom, perception beyond the visible, and mental clarity. In many spiritual traditions, it is considered the seat of inner knowledge.
In the yogic and tantric worldview, nadis are the subtle energy channels through which life energy (<em>Prana</em>) flows in the body. The Sanskrit word roughly means “tube” or “channel.” Traditionally, thousands of nadis are described, three of which are considered particularly significant: Ida, Pingala, and Sushumna.
The crown chakra, Sanskrit <em>Sahasrara</em>, is the seventh and highest of the major chakras. Energetically, it is located at the crown of the head and represents the connection to the transpersonal, to a greater whole, to universal consciousness. In energy work, it is considered the gateway to the spiritual dimension of being.
The solar plexus chakra, Sanskrit <em>Manipura</em>, is the third major chakra and is energetically located in the area of the solar plexus, above the navel. It represents willpower, self-esteem, personal strength, and the ability to actively shape one’s own life. In energy work, it is considered the center of inner strength.
The throat chakra, Sanskrit <em>Vishuddha</em>, is the fifth major chakra and is energetically located in the throat and larynx area. It represents communication, expression, truth, and the ability to convey one’s inner world to the outside world. In energy work, it is considered the center of the authentic voice.
The sacral chakra, Sanskrit <em>Svadhisthana</em>, is the second major chakra and is energetically located in the lower abdomen, below the navel. It represents creativity, sensuality, emotionality, and the flow of life. In energy work, it is regarded as the center of creative joy and the ability to form relationships.
The heart chakra, Sanskrit <em>Anahata</em>, is the fourth and central of the seven main chakras. Energetically, it is located in the chest area and is considered a bridge between the three lower, earth-bound chakras and the three upper, spiritually oriented centers. Thematically, it represents love, compassion, connection, and the capacity for forgiveness.
Prana is a Sanskrit term from the yogic and Ayurvedic traditions that refers to the universal life energy inherent in all living things. It is considered the subtle force behind breath, movement, and consciousness. In yoga, prana is consciously directed and cultivated through breathing exercises (pranayama), asanas, and meditation.
When something feels off inside: What a chakra imbalance means in traditional terms—and how you can gently find your way back.
In spiritual and energetic traditions, the aura refers to a subtle energy field that surrounds the human body and is divided into various layers. It is considered a reflection of a person’s physical, emotional, and mental state. Although the aura has not been scientifically proven, it is described and experienced as a real phenomenon in many cultures and healing systems.
A bija mantra (Sanskrit: <em>bīja</em> = seed) is a short, usually monosyllabic sound formula from the Vedic and Tantric traditions, which is believed to have a special energetic effect. Each Bija Mantra is considered the sound essence of a specific deity, a chakra, or a cosmic quality. Through repeated recitation, it is said to address the corresponding energy field in the consciousness and the body.
Chakras — wheels, vortices, energy centers. But what are they really all about? An honest look at their origins, structure, and significance.
Red to Violet: What Do the Chakra Colors Mean? A visual reference guide with a chart, color portraits, and symbolism.
Opening your chakras doesn't have to be a ritual. Discover inviting ways to incorporate breathing, sound, movement, and stillness into your daily life.
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