The Sanskrit word for chakra, cakra, translates to “wheel” or “disk,” describing a spinning vortex of subtle energy within the human body. Rooted in ancient Indian traditions like Yoga and Ayurveda, chakras are believed to be centers where the physical body, consciousness, and energy systems intersect. They serve as conduits for prana, or life force energy, to flow throughout the body. While the system is a metaphysical model, understanding these energy centers offers a framework for holistic well-being.
The Core Framework of Seven Energy Centers
The system most widely adopted in modern practice and ancient texts is comprised of seven major chakras, which form a vertical column along the body’s central axis. This sequence serves as the foundational map for nearly all extended chakra systems. The centers are hierarchically arranged, beginning with the densest, most physical focus at the base of the spine and culminating in the most spiritual focus at the top of the head.
These seven centers are connected by energy pathways called nadis, with the central channel known as the Sushumna Nadi running along the spine. The foundational energy of the system is often described as a coiled serpent, Kundalini, which awakens at the base and ascends through each center. Starting at the tailbone, the centers progress upward through the lower abdomen, solar plexus, heart, throat, forehead, and finally the crown.
Individual Function and Location of the Primary Seven
The first center, the Root Chakra (Muladhara), is located at the base of the spine, near the perineum and tailbone, and is associated with the color red and the element of Earth. This chakra governs our fundamental needs, including survival, security, and grounding, promoting stability. Directly above this is the Sacral Chakra (Svadhisthana), positioned in the lower abdomen, about two inches below the naval, and is linked to the color orange and the element of Water. It is the center of creativity, pleasure, emotional fluidity, and sexual energy.
The Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipura) resides in the upper abdomen, just below the rib cage, and connects to the color yellow and the element of Fire. This center is the seat of personal power, self-esteem, and willpower, driving our ability to manifest goals. Moving up to the center of the chest is the Heart Chakra (Anahata), associated with the color green and the element of Air, acting as the bridge between the lower and upper chakras. It governs love, compassion, forgiveness, and connection.
Next is the Throat Chakra (Vishuddha), located in the throat area, aligning with the color blue and the element of Ether. This center dictates our ability to communicate, express our truth, and listen effectively. The Third Eye Chakra (Ajna) is positioned on the forehead between the eyebrows, often represented by the color indigo. It is the center of intuition, insight, wisdom, and inner guidance, governing our perception beyond the physical senses.
Finally, the Crown Chakra (Sahasrara) is located at the very top of the head, connecting to the color violet or white and the element of pure thought or cosmic energy. This highest center governs spiritual connection, enlightenment, and universal consciousness, representing the link to the infinite. Each center corresponds to different psychological themes and physical areas of the body.
Understanding Systems That Include Nine or More Chakras
The concept of “nine chakras” arises in systems that expand upon the classical seven-point framework. These systems integrate additional “transpersonal” energy centers that exist primarily outside the physical body. Two commonly added centers that create a nine-point system are the Earth Star and the Soul Star chakras.
The Earth Star Chakra is a sub-personal center, typically located 12 to 18 inches below the feet, connecting the entire energy field directly to the Earth’s core. Unlike the Root Chakra, the Earth Star anchors the subtle body, facilitating the release of excess energy and drawing up planetary energy. At the opposite end, the Soul Star Chakra, or the 8th chakra in some models, is a transpersonal center situated approximately six to twelve inches above the head. It is often described as the “Seat of the Soul,” holding the blueprint of one’s spiritual purpose and acting as a conduit for divine energy.
Alternatively, a nine-chakra total can be achieved by including the High Heart Chakra (Thymus Chakra), positioned in the upper chest between the Heart and Throat centers. This chakra is considered a bridge, governing unconditional love, forgiveness, and spiritual immunity, and its activation moves beyond personal, emotional love to a more universal compassion. These extended models are not replacements for the seven-chakra system but are viewed as tools for integrating higher spiritual energy and achieving a deeper connection to the Earth and the cosmos.