Chakras

Definition

Energetic centres in the subtle body, traditionally numbered seven in the modern Western system — root, sacral, solar plexus, heart, throat, third eye, crown — each associated with physical, emotional and spiritual functions.

Origin

The chakra concept originates in Tantric Hindu and Buddhist texts (c. 8th-12th century CE), particularly the Kubjikamata-tantra. Different historical Tantric systems use 5, 6, 7, 12 or more centres; the seven-chakra schema is one specific tradition among many.

Development

The familiar seven-chakra system was introduced to the West via Sir John Woodroffe's 1919 The Serpent Power (a translation of two Sanskrit texts). C. W. Leadbeater's theosophical illustrations gave the chakras their now-standard rainbow colour associations — colours that have no traditional textual basis.

In Practice

Modern chakra work includes meditation focused on each centre, sound healing (bija mantras), crystal correspondences (one stone per centre), yoga postures targeting specific chakras and energy-balancing modalities like Reiki. Each centre is "opened," "closed" or "balanced" depending on tradition.

Deeper Reading

Anthropologist Geoffrey Samuel's research shows that modern Western chakra practice differs substantially from traditional Tantric uses, which were embedded in complex ritual and ethical frameworks. The Western version emphasises wellness and psychological correspondences; the Tantric version was a yoga of liberation. Both are legitimate practices addressing different goals.

See Also

• energy centres
• subtle body centres
• chakras
• chakra