The word "chakra" comes from the Sanskrit word meaning "wheel". and that is simply what they are. They are powerful whirling energy centres which are the openings for life energy to flow in and out of our bodies to vitalize the physical body and to being about the development of our self-consciousness. If a chakra becomes "blocked" there can be associated physical and psychosomatic problems and the whole physical and emotional body becomes imbalanced.

The body comprises of seven major chakras located approximately from the spine from the tip of the tailbone to the top of the head.

There are also several minor chakras.

Chakras work as communication satellites and control the degree and quality of conscious awareness we possess. Translation into Western anatomy and physiology means that the traditional location of each chakra correlates with a major gland or glands and a main automatic nerve plexus within the body. By some coincidence or method of analytical intro-respection now lost to us, the point where each chakra is located corresponds with the points in the body where psychosomatic illness most commonly manifests.

The three lower chakras govern self consciousness, survival and will and consist of:

The base chakra

Located at the base of the spine this primarily controls the survival instinct, to eat, sleep and protect oneself. It is where we are "grounded". Related organs are the kidneys and bladder, the vertebral column, hips and legs and the adrenal gland also relate to this chakra.

Some of the problems associated with a blockage in this chakra;

Physical - constipation, piles, Crohn's disease, cold fingers and toes, kidney stones.

Mental - paranoia, aggression, manic, nervous, depressions, denial of basic care and physical needs.

The second chakra

located next to the spleen halfway between the base chakra and the navel. This controls and determines emotion and pleasure, the five senses and sensuality. Organs relating to this chakra are the uterus, large bowel, prostate, ovaries and testes.

Some of the problems associated with a blockage in this chakra;

Physical - pre-menstrual syndrome, fibroids, ovarian cysts, ibs, testicular and prostatic disease, low back pain.

Mental - greed, addiction, easting disorders

The third chakra

Located around the solar plexus and is the centre of will. It gives the ability to make decisions and choices and to assume responsibility. Associated organs are the liver, spleen, stomach and small intestine.

Some of the problems associated with a blockage in this chakra;

Physical - diabetes, liver disease, ulcers, gall stones.

Mental - Tiredness, egocentricity, lack of concentration, laziness, manipulative, passive-aggressive.

The middle chakra

This is the centre of love and located in the heart area. Love is totally different from emotion and is balanced, calm, giving and accepting of oneself and others. Organs associated with this are the heart and the breasts.

Some of the problems associated with a blockage in this chakra;

Physical - heart disease, diseases of the immune system, allergies and breast cancer.

The fifth chakra

The fifth is located at the level of the throat and relates to communication both internal and external. The related organs are the throat and lungs.

Some of the problems associated with a blockage in this chakra;

Physical - thyroid problems, asthma, hearing problems, bronchitis, problems of the upper digestive tract.

The sixth chakra

This is located at the forehead between the eyes and just above the eyebrows. Often called the third eye this chakra is connected to the pineal gland and controls the pituitary gland. When in alignment it develops the ability to think reality into existence. It is an avenue to wisdom and the seed of the mind relating to the power of thought, imagination, intuition, healing energy and our "sixth sense".

Some of the problems associated with a blockage in this chakra;

Physical - brain tumours, strokes, blindness, deafness, learning disabilities, panic, depression.

Mental - fear of truth, discipline, judgment, emotional intelligence, concept of reality.

The seventh (crown) chakra

The seventh is located at the top of the head, the highest part of the body. Connection to our spiritual nature. Governs the consciousness of spiritual awakening, enlightenment and spiritual wisdom.

Some of the problems associated with a blockage in this chakra;

Physical - diseases of the muscular and skeletal system and the skin. Chronic exhaustion, sensitivity to sound and light.

Mental - mystical depression, loss of direction, meaning, identity or trust.

Balancing your chakras

An imbalance or blockage in one or several of the chakras will cause physical and emotional problems.

In order to function at optimum efficiently the chakras need to be open.

As the first, second and third chakras control the body, the emotions and the will, these three aspects need to be grounded, cared for, balanced and directed. In fact it is essential that you start working with the first chakra and open and balance the other chakras one at a time. Working in this way gives a physical grounding and allows adjustment to an increase of the flow of energy into the body.

Opening and clearing can be carried out in a number of ways. It is best done under the guidance of a trained practitioner. Catherine has strong links with several therapists who can balance and clear energy blockages through such therapies as reflexology, acupuncture, yoga and spiritual healing.

For more information please ask for details.