Chakras are also known as energy centers within the body. When people use the colored chakra stones in combination with meditation it is believed that the body will be replenished and the energy reserves will be restored. More simply put, those that follow this will be better able to fight off stress, get better and longer sleep and it will also increase their energy levels.

There are seven power points in the body that are responsible for circulating the life force, prana, or what most of us call "energy."

The power points line up and down the center of the body or near the spine. If unbalanced or blocked, physical and mental health will be distorted, it will also effect spiritual growth.

There is an electromagnetic field that is around the human body, called the aura. It indicates the spiritual, mental, and physical health of a person. If the colors are bright and clear then it is assumed that their health is good. Darker colors that may appear murky or unclear indicate a negative health of body, mind, and spirit.

The seven chakras are indicated as follows:

CROWN CHAKRA - SEVENTH CHAKRA

This chakra is located above the head. It links an individual to the universe. The pineal gland, the brain, and the central nervous system are all associated with the Crown chakra and is the primary center for coordination. When the chakra is balanced it will create harmony and balance on an emotional level. When the crown chakra is unbalanced there are coordination difficulties, poor balance often associated with clumsiness, the inability to produce new thoughts, and a lack of spirit.

THIRD EYE CHAKRA - BROW CHAKRA - SIXTH CHAKRA

This chakra is psychic power and intelligence; located right between the eyes this chakra is associated with the skeletal system, ears, nose, eyes, and the pituitary gland. Because this chakra is the base of how we see the world it is directly related to the sight and hearing. Some signs that the Brow Chakra is out of balance are indecision, confusion, and the tendency to jump to conclusions.

THROAT CHAKRA - FIFTH CHAKRA

This chakra is located at the throat but is responsible for creativity and self expression and associated with the thyroid gland, upper lungs and respiratory system. Both teaching and learning are affected by the balance of the throat chakra. This chakra is unbalanced when a person is plagued with fear, doubt, and uncertainty, habitual lying, in inability to learn and difficulty expressing oneself.

HEART CHAKRA - FOURTH CHAKRA

Located near the center of the breastbone this chakra represents higher consciousness and love. The Heart chakra is associated with the heart, thymus gland, lower lung and circulatory system. The heart chakra acts as the balance point for all the chakras. It governs our relationships and how we interact with other people. The Heart Chakra is unbalanced when there is a lack of self discipline, a difficulty in relationships, and an attempt to live vicariously through others, and depending on someone else for your happiness.

SOLAR PLEXUS CHAKRA - THIRD CHAKRA

Located midway between the rib cage and the navel, this is the sense of identity. The Solar plexus chakra is associated with the pancreas, liver, gall bladder, spleen, digestive system and nervous system. The solar plexus chakra is associated with the fire element because fire provides warmth and comfort, but also can cause fear and terror. Some signs that the Solar Plexus Chakra is out of balance are: difficulty concentrating, inability to judge a situation accurately, feeling that you are more important than other people, or trouble getting things done.

SACRAL HARA CHAKRA - SECOND CHAKRA

Located at the genitals, this chakra monitors sexuality and reproduction. Sacral hara chakra is associated with reproductive organs, stomach and colon. The color associated with the sacral hara chakra is Orange. Orange symbolizes energy. For healing, these stones are essential for health and vitality. It regulates food intake. Orange is warm and positive.

ROOT CHAKRA - BASE CHAKRA - FIRST CHAKRA

Located at the base of the spine and groin area, this is the animal or base nature. It is also taste and smell. The Root chakra is associated with adrenals, kidneys, muscles and arterial blood. The Root Chakra links us to the physical world, solidity and support - especially to the physical body. It is the foundation of energy. Some signs that the Base Chakra is out of balance are: restlessness, lack of energy, loss of interest in the real world, volatile emotions, and selfishness.

The use of chakra stones is becoming more widespread in North America. You can purchase a starter set and be on your way to learning this powerful healing method in no time. There are many resources available to help you along your path of education in this ancient art.