How to Awaken Chakras

Boost the seven energy centers from the base of your spine to the top of your head for optimum health and vitality.

Instructions

Step 1: Breathe Sit with your back straight in a quiet space and take several deep, slow, controlled breaths. Actively breathe in, and slowly and passively breathe out.
Step 2: Visualize Visualize the first, or root chakra, at the base of the spine. The second is in the reproductive area; the third is in the solar plexus; then the heart; the throat; between the eyes; and at the crown of the head.
TIP: The sixth chakra is known as the "third eye" and is the center of insight.
Step 3: Know chakra properties Know the function associated with each chakra. The first is instinct, then creativity, power, love, communication, insight, and, finally, higher consciousness.
Step 4: Focus energy Focus your energy on the root chakra. Visualize the color red, which is associated with this chakra, as a swirling ball of energy. With each breath, imagine the light growing brighter.
TIP: Repeat a life-affirming mantra while focusing on each chakra.
Step 5: Repeat Focus one by one on the remaining chakras, visualizing an orange ball for the second chakra; then a yellow ball; a green ball; blue; indigo; and violet.
TIP: Meditate with a chakra banner -- a wall-hanging showing the succession and color of the chakras -- or use chakra crystals.
Step 6: Repeat vibrational sound Repeat the vibrational sound associated with each chakra to release blocked energy. The first chakra's sound is "lam," then "vam," "ram," "yam," "ham," "sham," and, finally, "aum."
FACT: "Chakra" is derived from the Sanskrit word meaning "wheel."