Chakras. When you practice yoga, you’ve possibly heard them mentioned by your teacher during class. Maybe your yogi even invites you to set a certain intention for a specific chakra, to open it up. But that doesn’t mean you know what they are. Rest assured: You are not alone. They are a complex and ancient energy system that originated in India.

Chakra translates to "wheel" in Sanskrit, and you can picture them like wheels of free-flowing positive energy. They are described as spinning disks of energy that should stay “open” and aligned, as they correspond to bundles of nerves, major organs, and areas of our energetic body that affect our emotional and physical well-being.

There are seven main chakras that run along your spine. Each of these seven main chakras has a corresponding number, name, colour, specific area of the spine from the sacrum to the crown of the head, and health focus. Let’s shine a light on every one of them:

Root chakra: or Muladhara, is located at the base of your spine. It provides you with a base or foundation for life, and it helps you feel grounded and able to withstand challenges.

Sacral chakra or Svadhisthana, is located just below your belly button. This chakra is responsible for your sexual and creative energy. It’s also linked to how you relate to your emotions as well as the emotions of others.

Solar plexus chakra: or Manipura, is located in your stomach area. It’s responsible for confidence and self-esteem, as well as helping you feel in control of your life.

Heart chakra: or Anahata, is located near your heart, in the center of your chest. The heart chakra is all about our ability to love and show compassion to others.

Throat chakra: or Vishuddha, is located in your throat. This chakra has to do with our ability to communicate verbally.

Third eye chakra: or Ajna, is located between your eyes. You can thank this chakra for a strong gut instinct. That’s because the third eye is responsible for intuition.

Crown chakra: or Sahasrara, is located at the top of your head. Your Sahasrara represents your spiritual connection to yourself, others, and the universe.

Now you know what chakras are, join me on the mat to unblock your chakras, so your energy can run freely. Leaving you feeling balanced, calm and in perfect harmony with your body, mind and soul.