While many of you may know have heard of chakras, many of you may not know what they refer to. Basically, chakras are energy centers which are located in our bodies and which often serve as focus points during yoga and meditation. It is strongly believed that blocked energy in these centers results in illness, so those who practice yoga and meditation seek a free flow of energy through the chakras to prevent illness and promote well-being and a connection to the energy of the Universe. There are seven main chakras, listed below.

1. Root Chakra – This chakra keeps us rooted to the earth and represents our foundation.
Location: Base of spine in tailbone.
Emotional issues: Financial security, food.

2. Sacral Chakra – This chakra represents our sense of connection to others.
Location: Lower abdomen, about 2 inches below the navel and 2 inches deep.
Emotional issues: Abundance, well-being, pleasure, sexuality.

3. Solar Plexus Chakra – This chakra represents our sense of self.
Location: Upper abdomen near stomach.
Emotional issues: Self-worth, self-confidence, self-esteem.
More on Solar Plexus Chakra healing

4. Heart Chakra – This represents our interpersonal relationships with loved ones and our ability to love.
Location: Chest near the heart.
Emotional issues: Love, joy, inner peace.

5. Throat Chakra – This chakra represents our ability to communicate.
Location: Throat.
Emotional issues: Communication, self-expression, the truth.

6. Third Eye Chakra – This chakra represents our intuition and wisdom.
Location: Forehead between the eyes.
Emotional issues: Imagination, vision, ability to think and make decisions.

7. Crown Chakra – The highest Chakra represents our ability to be fully connected spiritually.
Location: The very top of the head.
Emotional issues: Enlightenment, our connection to spirituality, pure bliss.