Within the subtle anatomy of humans are the chakras (a Sanskrit word), each a spinning vortex of energy. It is thought that the physical body (gross anatomy) reflects the state of the spiritual/emotional body (subtle anatomy).

By focusing on the chakras, we can release blocked energy, encourage higher energy levels in "sleeping" chakras, and, hopefully, uncover physical and emotional problems.

Generally speaking, there are seven chakras, running parallel to the spinal column. Each chakra deals with both physical and emotional issues. Sensing the energy level of a chakra can give the you further insight into your condition.

While the information below is generally agreed upon, you will find books and speakers who have a different interpretation of what the chakras represent. Use your own judgment, and your own intuition, to determine what is right for you.

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The root chakra, or base chakra, is located at the base of the spine. This chakra governs perception of the physical world, and that which "grounds" us to the earth. The base chakra also is the chakra that deals with willpower, motivation and intent. It is with the energy from this chakra that we get our motivational forces, and also the "fight or flight" responses. When threatened, it is through this chakra we deal with anger and fear. Physically, it controls the adrenal gland, the kidney and the spinal column. Red is the color of this chakra.

Red is a vibrant color that stimulates the body. Too much red can overexcite and even cause anger. People with high blood pressure or anxiety may wish to avoid wearing too much red. This color can be used therapeutically for energy conditions associated with low blood pressure, inactivity, and impotence.

The second chakra, also known as the sexual chakra, deals with the reproductive organs, as well as feelings of sexuality and of sexual identity and sexual expression/repression. Since it deals with the "reproduction of Self," this chakra also deals with creativity and expressing one's Self through creative acts. Physically, it governs the sexual organs in both male and female as well as the kidneys and bladder, two major detoxification organs. The second chakra is also the place where a "being" is nourished and sheltered, emotionally and spiritually, while it grows. "Life energy" is the code word, and orange is the color of this chakra.

Orange can stimulate the respiratory and nervous systems and bring joy, making it useful for depression or melancholy. It is associated with the sacral chakra, so it can benefit the kidneys and urinary systems. The sacral chakra is also related to the adrenal glands, so orange can help to balance adrenal depletion or exhaustion resulting from chronic stress or overwork.

 
The third chakra is located in the solar plexus, hovering just above the navel (some might sense it as being higher or lower). It deals with emotional issues and issues of personal power. Sometimes it's referred to as the "seat of the emotional living." It governs the spleen, liver and stomach as well as the nervous system and the bladder. It's color is yellow and/or gold. Since it is in the solar plexus area, it represents our "sun" or solar power. This is where we make social connections, and deal with material concerns. Feelings of self-acceptance and acceptance from others is dealt with in this chakra. 

Yellow is associated with the solar plexus chakra. An imbalance in the solar plexus can manifest as fear, apprehension, introversion or power issues, which this color can help to balance. Yellow is associated with the intellect and mental processes. It can be used therapeutically for people with rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis due to its vibrational link to calcium metabolism. In addition to the metabolic system, the solar plexus affects the digestive system and is related to the eyes.

The Heart Chakra is located near the heart and it is the chakra through which we feel love and compassion and unconditional acceptance for others (and for yourself). It is the chakra of "brotherly love" (vs. emotional love, which is the third chakra). It governs the heart, blood, circulatory system immune system, endocrine system and thymus gland. The color of this chakra is green. This chakra deals with our need for deep, intimate contact with others as well as the capacity to empathize and sympathize with others. Since this is the "middle" chakra, between the lower three and the upper three, it is the chakra through which the lower physical chakras are connected with the higher, mental/spiritual chakras.

Green is a color that can help bring balance to the body and help purify and cleanse. It is related to the heart chakra, so it can help with issues stemming from too much or too little self-love or rejection.

The fifth chakra is located in the throat area. Communication, expression of thoughts and feelings, and judgment are dealt with in this chakra. It's about speaking our truth. It governs the thyroid gland, lungs, vocal cords, bronchial apparatus, and metabolism. Turquoise Blue is the color of this chakra.

Turquoise Blue is associated with the throat chakra and is responsible for strengthening the immune system against disease. It is also involved in improving communication. Turquoise can have an anti-inflammatory effect. It calms and strengthens the voice, and can help to improve verbal expression.

The sixth chakra is located in the third eye area, which is in the center of the forehead, between the eyebrows. It deals with spirituality and the search for meaning in life. Intuition and psychic "knowing" are stimulated by this chakra, as well as the ability to imagine. It is associated with these parts of the body face, eyes, ears, nose (sinuses), and central nervous system, and governs the pituitary gland.

Blue (indigo blue with touches of purple) is a very calming and sedating color. Blue is related to the brow chakra. It can help to balance energy when there is high blood pressure, migraine, asthma, anxiety and skin irritation. It is a protective color that helps to protect you during challenging times by strengthening intuition and insight.

The seventh chakra, also known as the crown chakra, is located at the top of the head. It deals with our connection to the concept of "God," higher intelligence, and the Universe, and the wisdom and guidance coming from the higher planes. It governs the pineal gland, upper brain and right eye. Violet is the color of this chakra, although often it is seen as White, and sometimes gold.

Light violet is associated with spirituality, being linked to the crown chakra. It can help when personal transformation is desired, and can also help to bring self-respect and inner wisdom, which is a vital aspect of self-healing.