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Do you ask yourself - What are Chakras?

Varsha Chowdhury • Apr 11, 2022

Have you ever observed that in sci-fi movies when superheroes have power over elements, they always manifest or cast the power through the palm of their hands? Or that Marvel’s Vision has the Mind Stone residing on his forehead between his eyebrows? It's not random creativity. They are indicative of Chakra centres.

I very often get asked about Chakras – what is it? What is their significance? Where are they located in our body etc.? Thanks to the ever-growing popularity of Yoga and energy healing modalities like Reiki, it is no longer an uncommon term, but that doesn’t mean it is well understood. Hence, I am shedding some light on it with this post as a crash course on Chakra 😊

Origins:

Chakra is an ancient energy system with its origins in India. It is mentioned in the oldest Hindu scriptures called Vedas dating between 1500 and 500 BC.

What are they?

Chakra is a Sanskrit word meaning ‘Wheel’ or ‘Circle’. We are all made up of energy and the Chakras are the confluences for energy centres that are the channels of life force in the energy body. We have 114 chakras with 112 located throughout our physical body and two outside the physical body. Out of these 112, 7 sets of chakras are the most well-known and talked about as the primary energy centres.

Are they Important?

YES! Absolutely! Each chakra relates to specific facets of our life and is intricately linked to our physical and emotional health and wellbeing. Also, their position in the physical body is strategic as they correspond to the function of the organs, bones, muscles etc. in that part of the body. Blocked Chakras over time can manifest into diseases. In essence, it is vital for the Chakras to be well balanced for a healthy physical and emotional body, vibrant energy, and a positive outlook.

The 7 main Chakras

Let’s get into it. The 7 chakras are situated in specific points along the spinal column from the base of the spine to the top of the head.

1. Muladhara: Root Chakra

Associated colour - Red

Located at the perineum, it is the foundational Chakra. This energy centre relates to the very roots of our physical existence. It represents, security, stability, support, how we identify with the physical world and the connection we feel with our tribe/the community.

A balanced Root Chakra will make us feel safe, well supported in our life with a strong sense of security and a healthy connection to the world. Physically, a balanced Root Chakra means a strong immune system, good physical health, and lots of vitality.

Underactive chakra = feelings of insecurity, life is shaky, lots of fear, anxiety, and emotional dysfunction. Disconnection from body and the world, scarcity, and difficulties with letting go.

Overactive chakra = too much craving and focus on material things, hoarding, issues with weight, feeling of being stuck in life, lack of boundaries.

Health: constipation, arthritis, poor immune system, lower backache, obesity, and anorexia.

2. Swadhisthana: Sacral Chakra

Associated colour – Orange

This Chakra sits just in between the navel and pubic bone and relates to creativity, relationships, sexuality, pleasure, and money. This chakra brings to awareness the polarities - masculine and feminine, positive and negative. We develop our individuality through this chakra.

A balanced Sacral Chakra will allow us to be in touch with our feelings, our sensuality, sexuality, and desires. Comfortable and in touch with our feminine energy (all genders).

Underactive chakra = strong resistance to pleasure and excitement of any kind, lack of passion, life feels like ground hog day – dull and monotonous. Strong disconnect with our sensuality and struggles with intimacy. Challenges with making money.

Overactive chakra = addiction, extreme moods, control issues, jealousy. Ego battles and excessive sensitivity that unreasonable.

Health: urinary tract issues, sexual difficulties and impotence, concerns with large intestines, lower back pain.

3. Manipura: Solar Plexus Chakra

Associated colour – Yellow

Seated in our upper abdomen, the Solar Plexus is the Chakra of personal power and action. It represents self-esteem, self-worth, courage, and strength. Our beliefs about our place in this world resides in this Chakra.

A balanced Solar Plexus is our inner warrior. We easily honour ourselves and our emotions, have a strong awareness of our personal power – self-worth, self-respect, and self-confidence. We will be full of energy and life. It is also where we connect with the masculine energy in us (all genders).

Underactive chakra = fear of rejection, very low self-esteem, lack of energy and purpose in life, inability to deal with any form of criticism, constant need for external validation, afraid of change, always feeling like a victim.

Overactive chakra = lots of anger and aggression, manipulation, needing to exert power over people and situations, controlling and overly judgemental.

Health: diabetes, gallstones, depression, low energy, muscle cramps, eating disorders, stomach and digestive problems.

4. Anahata: Heart Chakra

Associated colour – Green (also Light Pink)

Situated at the centre of the chest, the Heart Chakra is the point of integration for the bottom three and the top three chakras. It is all about love and compassion – for self and others.

A balanced Heart Chakra means we have a healthy sense of self love which then extends to others around us. We forgive easily, are compassionate, have a positive outlook in life and are joyful.

Underactive chakra = unable to forgive and let go of the past, feelings of bitterness, loneliness, shutoff from our emotions and people, cynical, very hard on ourselves.

Overactive chakra = excessive people pleasing, co-dependent relationships, possessiveness, and jealousy.

Health: heart disorders, shortness of breath, high blood pressure, issues with circulation, weak immune system.

NOTE: The Heart Chakra is an important one as it is the centre of the 7 Chakras bridging the bottom three and the top three. The three chakras leading up to the Heart (Root, Sacral and Solar Plexus) are all about our physical experience and existence.

We are now moving on to the top three Chakras that are about our spiritual experience and connection to the divine. The vibrations of these Chakras are very high, hence, the effects of working with these more profound.

5. Vishuddhi: Throat Chakra

Associated colour – Blue

Based on the name, if you guessed so, you are right - this Chakra is about communication and sits in the throat cavity.

A balanced Throat Chakra will empower us to communicate our authentic self freely, speak our truth creatively and feel heard. We will listen to others with compassion and our words are honest and spoken with clear intention.

Underactive chakra = challenges with expressing how we truly feel, lack of integrity, pretence, fear of communication, disconnect from our creativity.

Overactive chakra = gossiping too much, no filter, talking too much and dominating conversations, always complaining.

Health: issues around the mouth, teeth, gums; problems with the thyroid and ears, sore neck and shoulders, other disorders around the throat and neck area.

6. Ajna: Third Eye Chakra

Associated colour – Indigo/Purple

The seat of our intuition and imagination, the Third Eye Chakra is the most well-known. It is located at the centre of our forehead, in between our eyebrows.

A balanced Third Eye Chakra is the key to our ‘sixth sense’. It helps in seeing the bigger picture, imagine and visualise the life we want with clarity. We are tuned-in to our inner wisdom allowing it to guide us to manifest our desires into reality.

Underactive chakra = lack of imagination, always worrying, inability to find creative solutions, uncertainty about our purpose, inability to tap in to our intuition.

Overactive chakra = extreme fantasies, delusion, poor concentration, ‘spacey’.

Health: headaches, issues with eyes/eyesight.

7. Sahasrara: Crown Chakra

Associated colour – Violet (also White)

The top of our head is the seat of the Crown Chakra, and it links to all the other Chakras down to the Root. This Chakra is the energy centre of awareness, connection to our higher self and spiritual enlightenment. It is our direct connection to the divine/the infinity/the Spirit.

A balanced Crown Chakra means we live in the present, recognise a greater power (of our own understanding), our spiritual and physical lives function in harmony, we are inspired, we have a deep connection with ourselves and the divine.

Underactive chakra = disconnection from spirituality, scepticism, narrow-mindedness, lack of inspiration, too involved with the material life, total inability to meditate and/or engage in any mindfulness practices.

Overactive chakra = addiction to spiritualism as an escape, neglect physical needs and a sense of disassociation with the physical body.

Health: migraines, nervous system and muscular disorders, skin problems, mental health issues.

As you can see a healthy functioning Chakra system is crucial for overall wellbeing and a fulfilling life. There are many meditations online as a way of self-healing to balance each Chakra. However, Reiki energetic healing is an easy and direct way to balance, open, cleanse and restore all Chakras in our physical as well as the energetic bodies.

Call or DM me for the first half hour consultation to discuss your healing needs.

With love and light,

Varsha @ theliberationprojectoz

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Feminism Unveiled: Shattering Misconceptions and Igniting Change

By Varsha Chowdhury • 22 Aug, 2023

YES! I am a feminist! I once met a gentleman, at a spiritual retreat no less, who said to me, and I quote, “gender discrimination, misogyny and women getting paid less at work is a myth”. I was so astonished that my reaction was to laugh. But inside my head: “Holy shit! Have you been living under a rock?” For those of you who know me as a person, you know that I am a calm, easy-going, albeit passionate, person who doesn’t anger easily. However, if there’s one thing that rattles my cage it is discrimination of any kind, but particularly sexism. Just like every other woman on this planet, I have faced my fair share of sexual innuendos & harassment, disparaging comments, double standards, and a constant barrage of belittling assumptions about my intelligence and capabilities. It's as if society handed me a script, with each page detailing the limitations I should accept solely because of my gender. I've experienced complete disregard of my opinions & suggestions, endured the microaggressions that chip away at my confidence, and navigated the intricate web of expectations woven around my life choices. Oh, and let's not forget all the times I have been shamed and lectured for having the ‘audacity’ of speaking up! Just like ALL my soul sisters out there! It’s a constant fight for respect, to be heard, equal opportunities and freedom to choose. And for all the progress in the right direction, the change is a double-edged sword of a convoluted reality full of paradoxes. On the one hand women are encouraged and celebrated for success in their careers, while in the same breath criticised and shamed for ‘neglecting’ their family and prioritising their work. They are expected to have a full-time job, working as hard as anyone else, and be a full-time homemaker – cooking, cleaning, raising kids – with little to no support, at the same time. In the modern society, girls seemingly have the freedom to dress as they please. But is it true freedom if their choice then gets judged and called ‘provocative’ and other highly derogatory names if it’s deemed revealing? OR conversely too plain, simple, boring, and unattractive. When as women we are confident and outspoken, we are overbearing & ‘bossy’. If we are accommodating, supportive and nurturing we are a ‘doormat’ and/or a pushover. Women who are friendly and approachable are ‘easy’ and those of us who are more discerning are ‘stuck up’. When we are emotional, we bear the cross of being too sensitive and demonstrating our intelligence and aptitude, makes us a bitch. There is no winning and there is no end to the labels for us. And all the above is only the tip of the iceberg. Every action, word, behaviour, gesture is scrutinised and judged no matter what. Jane Goodall put it nicely - “It actually doesn’t take much to be considered a difficult woman. That’s why there are so many of us." The most disheartening aspect of misogyny though lies in its insidious success in turning women against each other. We judge, criticise, and persecute our own sisters for everything we accuse the opposite gender of doing. So, any woman who asserts herself, voices her beliefs, makes her own decisions, shapes her own path, and embraces life on her own terms automatically embodies feminism through her refusal to conform, while empowering other women to do the same by example or otherwise. Being a feminist means having the courage to challenge norms, to question biases, to rise above the social limitations and to embrace change. Feminism is a world where courage meets compassion and equality challenges tradition. It isn't just a label; it is a powerful stance against the odds in the world we live in. However, there seems to be a strong negative connotation and misconceptions associated with the word, and I am endeavouring to bust those myths as well. Feminism is NOT about misandry. It is not a US vs THEM. Feminism is rooted in the conviction of equality; It's the spirit that ignites when you see unfairness and decide to make a difference. The beauty of feminism lies in its inclusivity. It's not about women fighting against men; it's about humanity fighting against injustice. Toxic masculinity has done no favours to anyone. It's put men into boxes too, where showing vulnerability or sensitivity is deemed weak. Just as feminism fights for women's rights, it fights for men's right to express themselves authentically and break free from society's rigid norms too. Gender equality is a puzzle where each piece matters. When men and women work together, we are piecing together a world where everyone thrives. So, whether you are a woman pushing through barriers or a man advocating for equality, you're a part of a movement that's rewriting history. Feminism isn't just about women's rights; it's about human rights. It's about creating a world where every person is free to chase their dreams without prejudice, where the spark of the individual outshines the gender on a birth certificate. Varsha The Liberation Project

🌟Emotional Support: Being There When It Truly Matters🌟

By Varsha Chowdhury • 16 Aug, 2023

Hey LiberationProject -fam!👋 As my experience with coaching, and life in general, grows, I realise that one of the areas I get a lot of questions, observations, concerns, and frustrations from clients when it comes to relationships fall under the broad category of receiving, or lack thereof, Emotional Support. It seems like the understanding around this subject is mostly abstract. Most people, especially men, find it hard to translate what emotional support means in real terms. What does it look, sound and feel like? What ‘actions’ can it take the form of? Hence, this post with practical tips and simple dos & don’ts that will assist anyone who has ever felt lost and asked themselves what it means to be ‘emotionally there’ for their significant others, friends, and family. This post is intended to help you, through awareness, to be there for your loved ones emotionally in times of need in tangible ways that will make them feel deeply supported, cared for, understood, heard, and show your love and thoughtfulness in in ways beyond words leading to nurturing your bond effortlessly. So, what’s the real deal when it comes to emotional support🤗💕 It's not just a catchphrase; it's about standing by your loved ones when they need it most. What can you do? 👂Listen with an Open Heart: Sometimes, all someone needs is a listening ear. Sit down, put away distractions, and lend them your full attention. Let them express themselves without judgment or interruption. 🤗Offer a Shoulder to Lean On: Emotional support means being that sturdy shoulder your friend can lean on. Whether through a hug, holding hands or just being fully present with them, shows that you're here for them, no matter what. 🤔Ask Thoughtful Questions: Assumptions are the killer of genuine support. You can never truly know how the other person is feeling so how can you know for sure what their true needs are? One of the easiest ways to being emotionally present is to ask them what you can do for them. Some examples of thoughtful questions are – “What do you need right now”? “Is there anything I can do to make it easier for you”? “How can I help”? “How can I best support you through this”? “Tell me what you need”. Any variations of these will do. 📣Validation and Affirmations: Remind them that their feelings are valid. Offer words of encouragement and let them know that you believe in them, love them unconditionally and that you are there for them no matter what. Just knowing that they have your loving support in and of itself will make all the difference in the world to them, because they won’t feel totally alone and isolated in their struggle anymore. 💬Check-in Regularly: Every so often ask them how they are feeling? If there’s anything you can do? A heartfelt text, call, or even a surprise visit shows that you genuinely care. It reiterates for them that they have you by their side. 🎁Acts of Kindness: Small gestures can have a big impact. Send them their favourite treat, a handwritten note, or anything that would help make their life easier, doing something to take some load off their mind etc. to let them know you're thinking of them. It really doesn’t take a lot. If ever in doubt, think what would make you feel supported if you were in their shoes? What would you need in a situation as theirs? And/or just ask them what they need. 🚫 Dos and Don'ts: Here's a quick guide: Dos : Respect their privacy ; let them share at their own pace. Offer help , like running errands or doing chores. Respect their feelings , even if you don't fully understand. Show them love in the way they like , speak their love language. Ask them how they need to be supported. Be patient ; healing takes time. Don'ts : Don't minimise their feelings ; "It's not a big deal" is not helpful at all. Don't give unsolicited advice; sometimes, just listening is enough. Don't compare their situation to yours or someone else's. Don't force them to talk; let them open up as and when they're ready. Don't judge or criticise their emotions (or anything else). Emotional support is about creating a safe space where someone can be vulnerable without fear of judgment. Be the light in their life when things get tough. Treat them with love and kindness💪💖 #EmotionalSupportMatters #BeThereForOneAnother #SpreadLoveAndKindness