Beginner’s Guide to the 7 Main Chakras: Meaning, Signs of Imbalance & Simple Ways to Balance Your Chakras
- Cara Holmstrup
- Mar 9
- 3 min read
Chakras come from ancient Indian traditions and refer to energy centres within the body. Each chakra influences different aspects of our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
When these energy centres are balanced, we tend to feel grounded, calm, and connected to ourselves. When chakras are out of balance, we may notice emotional stress, physical tension, or a sense of disconnection.
Understanding the chakras can help you recognize what your body may be trying to communicate, and offer simple ways to support balance and well-being.
Root Chakra (Muladhara)
Colour: Red | Location: Base of the spine | Element: Earth | Sound: LAM
The Root Chakra forms the energetic foundation associated with safety, stability, and basic needs.
What it governs
Foundation, safety, and grounding.
When it's out of balance
You may feel scattered, fearful, anxious, or disconnected from your body.
Simple ways to support balance
Spend time grounding yourself by standing barefoot on the earth, walking outside, or focusing on slow breathing.
Affirmations
I am grounded.
I am supported.
I am safe in my body.
Sacral Chakra (Svadhisthana)
Colour: Orange | Location: Two inches below the navel | Element: Water | Sound: VAM
The Sacral Chakra is associated with emotions, creativity, pleasure, and relationships.
What it governs
Emotions, sexuality, creativity, and relationship with money.
When it's out of balance
You might experience low motivation, tension in relationships, or suppressed emotions.
Simple ways to support balance
Engage in something playful or creative, such as music, art, or movement, and allow yourself to have some fun.
Affirmations
I feel deeply.
I honour my emotions.
I trust my desires.
Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipura)
Colour: Yellow | Location: Two inches above the navel | Element: Fire | Sound: RAM
The Solar Plexus Chakra relates to personality, confidence, and self-esteem.
What it governs
Sense of self, courage, and personal power.
When it's out of balance
You may find yourself over-apologizing or avoiding making decisions.
Simple ways to support balance
Strengthen your core through posture awareness, breathing exercises, or core strengthening exercises.
Affirmations
I act with purpose.
I trust myself.
I am strong and capable.
"Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakens."
– Carl Jung
Heart Chakra (Anahata)
Colour: Green | Location: Centre of the Chest | Element: Air | Sound: YAM
The Heart Chakra is considered the bridge between the three lower and the three upper chakras. It is the centre of love, compassion, and emotional connection.
What it governs
Love and compassion.
When it's out of balance
You may experience grief, resentment, or difficulty giving or receiving love.
Simple ways to support balance
Practice gratitude or connect with someone you trust.
Affirmations
I love fully.
I forgive freely.
I open my heart to give and receive love.
Throat Chakra (Vishuddha)
Colour: Blue | Location: Centre of the throat | Element: Ether | Sound: HAM
The Throat Chakra relates to communication, truth, and self-expression.
What it governs
Communication and honest expression.
When it's out of balance
You may struggle to speak up or feel unheard.
Simple ways to support balance
Speak one honest sentence outloud — even if only to yourself.
Affirmations
I express myself clearly.
I speak with confidence.
My voice matters.
Third Eye Chakra (Ajna)
Colour: Indigo | Location: Between the eyebrows | Element: Light | Sound: OM
The Third Eye Chakra is connected to intuition, awareness, and inner wisdom.
What it governs
Insight, perception, and intuition.
When it's out of balance
You may experience confusion, doubt, or difficulty trusting yourself.
Simple ways to support balance
Practice mindfulness or spend quiet moments reflecting without distraction. Enjoy gentle sungazing at sunrise or sunset.
Affirmations
I see the bigger picture.
I trust my intuition.
I follow my inner guidance.
Crown Chakra (Sahasrara)
Colour: Purple | Location: Top of the head | Element: Thought | Sound: AUM
The Crown Chakra relates to spiritual connection and a sense of meaning.
What it governs
Connection to our higher selves and to the divine.
When it's out of balance
You may feel disconnected, lost, or closed-minded.
Simple ways to support balance
Spend time in stillness or meditation, focusing on perspective over problems.
Affirmations
I trust in life.
I am supported.
I am connected to something greater than myself.
The chakra system serves as an inner compass, helping us understand how our bodies, emotions, and energy interact with and respond to life.
When one area feels off, it may be an invitation to slow down, reconnect with yourself, and restore balance.
By checking in with your body and practicing small moments of awareness, you can support greater calm, clarity, and well-being in everyday life.
If you're curious about how Reiki can support balance in your own energy system, you’re welcome to explore the Reiki sessions I offer or reach out if you have questions.
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