A chakra is a whirling vortex, which draws energy into the body, allowing it to flow freely through the network of energy centres. The word chakra comes from the ancient Sanskrit language and literally means 'circle of movement'. There are seven main chakras located at different levels, running from the crown of the head to the lowest one at the base of the spine.
The chakras are vitally important for physical and emotional well being, as well as spiritual growth. Each chakra is associated with specific organs and endocrine glands. Chakras process subtle energy and convert it into chemical, hormonal and cellular changes in the body. Each chakra vibrates at a different frequency, colour and musical note.
The seven master chakras are on the centre line of the body, with the first five embedded in the spinal column. The root chakra opens downwards and the crown chakra opens upwards. The other five - sacrum, solar plexus, heart, throat and third eye, open from the front to the back of the body.
The performance of the chakra system has major influences on our physical and spiritual health and the way we feel about ourselves.