​Chakras and Nadis, the Energy Centers

Basic information covered here

A lot has been written on this domain as this is the next level after the gross body and is closely related to well being as well as the gateway to calm the mind. Only the basic concepts are covered here. For more advanced material, links are given for studying further.

Yoga

By studying yoga, one develops a deep understanding of the energy channels in the body, the 5 prana vayus (not gas!), the energy centers etc.

Energy Domain: The Chakras and Nadis

An overview of the energy system. I am not dwelling in much detail on this domain, as there is a lot of content available in yogic texts on this topic. Some links are included at the end of the page.

Chakras

Note the petals or the sounds that are on each chakra and the center letter of the chakra (wheel) of energy. As we recite each letter, a specific chakra and its energy gets activated in the body.

Chakras in the body

There are 112 chakras or engery centers in the body, out of which 7 are described here.

Chakras at a glance

Here is a quick compilation of most of the common information about chakras, The english names, elements, rainbow color, the metals, petals, stones, planets, sound and purpose are associated with the chakras.

Mudras

5 Elements Fire - Thumb

Earth - Right finger

Water - Little Finger

Air - Middle finger

Space - Index finger

Are the 5 Elements controlled by the fingers which are used to create mudras

There are many mudras that, when done properly regulate the energy flow in the body.

Chakras and Beeja Mantras

Energy Balancing

Chakras balancing is done by mantras and sounds. Emphasis is given on the stress given to sounds. Vedic mantras have power as they are envisioned in a high state of mind by sages and not composed by anyone. The most powerful method of vedic chanting is ghanapatha. There are various stanzas rendered in ghanapatha. Each mantra vibration is designed for a specific purpose. They are all manifestations of subtle aum sound. Repetition of mantra causes resonance in vibrations. Mantra to be done with deeksha, otherwise, it has little impact. Mantra later on merges with breath and then with humsa and then ultimately only in aum.

Deep Impact of Vibrations.

The structure of the molecules defines the properties. Not the chemical composition. Eg, Graphite and Diamond. Structure is altered by vibrations. Vibrations are prayers, words, music, sound etc. that have positive and negative vibrations associated with them. Even emotions are associated with vibrations. Water is a unique substance that has peculiar patterns and has “memory” of its own. Hence the importance of holy water in many cultures.