The chakras correspond to energy meridians situated in the body. Eastern medicine tells us that flow of energy or ‘Prana’ around these chakras have influence over neighbouring organs and, disturbed flow or blockages in the ‘nadi’s or channels, can lead to their dysfunction. Mudras are often used in meditation to support the increased flow in one or more chakra. In meditation, control of flow in the chakras is a central them of Kundalini Yoga where the ascent of Kundalini energy is controlled through the meditative process.
Numerous health benefits of the different types of chakra meditation have been described but are anecdotal, have not been subjected to the scientific process and therefore not described here. However, even across traditions and over centuries, the main constituent theme of each chakra, such as expression and creativity has remained absolutely consistent.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=6&v=T9ugaxxoWns
The chakras are literally arranged in the colours of the rainbow with red at the root ascending to violet at the crown. As well as the hand positions described in the text and in the video, what you eat also affects flow in the meridians. This follows the principles of Ayurveda but luckily everything is colour coded. Chakras are also noted in Buddhism. Energy meridians of a different nomenclature but same principles are used in Traditional Chinese Medicine including acupuncture which has entered mainstream western medicine and has proven efficacy in anaesthetic use.
Muladhara or the root chakra is at the base of the coccyx near the anal canal. As its name suggests Muladhara is responsible for grounding and survival instincts. Its colour is red. Its energy flow is augmented by red foods, including red apple and cranberry, foods with roots such as radishes, red potatoes, beets; red beans and lentils. Red fruits, including watermelon, pomegranate, cherries, all red berries; food grown with deep tree roots or on a vine. Red herbal teas such as rooibos or hibiscus.
At the level of the sacrum is Swadhisthana or the sacral chakra. It is said to be responsible for creativity and human sexuality. Its colour is orange and its energy flow is aided by red fruits and vegetables; cumin, turmeric, ginger, rooted foods with deep orange, carrots, peppers and oranges and related citrus fruits.
Two inches below the umbilicus is the location of Manipura, the solar plexus chakra. It is said to be responsible for willpower and inner strength. Energy flow around Manipura is augmented with yellow fruit and vegetables; kefir, yogurt, oat bran, cinnamon and lemon, light-green vegetables with a high-water content such as celery and cucumber. Melons. Banana, applesauce. Aloe juice. Avocado. Fennel and mint. Chamomile Tea.
The heart chakra is known is Anahata and is represented by the colour green and itself represents love. Flow around the heart meridian is aided by green fruit and vegetables such as limes, green apples, courgettes, avocados. green beans, lima beans, mung beans, Leafy greens. Raw nuts. Flow is also promoted by reduced intake of dairy produce.
The throat chakra or Vishuddha is responsible for expression. Flow round the Vishuddha meridian is promoted by blue fruits and vegetables, blueberries being the most representative of this chakra.
Perhaps the most focused upon chakra is Ajna or the third eye chakra. The opening of which is said to give rise to mystical or extra-sensory powers. It ancient Hindu and Buddhist literature it is said to be responsible for intuition, normal and higher sense perception (whatever these may be). Flow around the third eye which is situated between the eyebrows is augmented by purple and purple-red fruits, such as goji berries and acai; plums; aubergines; broccoli; clean organic meats; freshwater fish. Pineapple and papaya.
Few proceed beyond Ajna but because the crown chakra or Sahasrara is actually situated above the body. Sahasrara is said to be the conduit for spiritual connection. Flow in this area is aided only by persistent meditation.
Traditional yogis insist that the chakras are not to be found if you go looking for them in the physical body but that hasn’t stopped some anatomists and neurologists postulating that the tenth cranial or vagus (latin for ‘wandering’) nerve is the source of all the chakras as its many branches can be found throughout the body. If you want to find out more, watch the documentary below, ‘The Science of the Chakras, The Vagus Nerve and Meditation’
Whether you believe in chakras or not, energy meridians play a important part of Eastern medicine especially within Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicne. Indeed, it is the basis of acupuncture which has been used in mainstream western medicine for decades, is available within the United Kingdom’s National Health Service and has been subjected to scientific rigor.
If you are a regular meditator, incorporating a mudra may be beneficial and its certainly worth exploring this adjunct.
Article by Vikas Pandey
