Each chakra represents a vital aspect of our being with a potential waiting to be awakened and developed. Opening the chakras refers to the process of expansion and purification that occurs at the emotional and energetic level.
It is recommended that we identify and fulfill the needs of the lower chakras before moving on to the higher chakras. Focusing on the higher chakras before balancing the lower chakras has the negative effect of releasing spiritual energy without the grounding and stability needed to integrate this in the body/mind.
For chakra opening, ayurvedic practitioners often recommend the use of essential oils and gemstones, as well as regular asana practice and meditation.
Chakra Element Emotion Color/Gem Mantra Oils*
| Muladhara (Root) | Earth | Grounding, Stability, Safety | Red: Ruby, Garnet, Red Coral | LAM | Cyperus, Jatamasi,Cedarwood Myrrh |
| Svadisthana (Navel) | Water | Creation, Reproduction, Sensuality | Orange: Amber, Topaz | VAM | Clary Sage, Orange, Dhavana, Cyperus |
| Manipura (Solar Plexus) | Fire | Ego, Self-actualization | Yellow: Golden Tiger Eye, Yellow Quartz | RAM | Sandalwood, Rose,
Rose Geranium, Floral Musk |
| Anahata
(Heart) |
Air | Devotion, Heart Opening, Compassion | Green: Emerald, Calcite, Malachite | YAM | Rose, Rose Geranium, Lavender, Bergamot |
| Vishuddha
(Throat) |
Ether | Communication,
Self-expression, Inspiration |
Blue: Turquoise, Lapis, Aquamarine | HAM | Blue Chamomile,
Cajaput, Eucalyptus Cyperus, Ylang Ylang |
| Ajna
(Third Eye) |
Ether | Intuition, Development of Inner Senses | Indigo: azurite, moonstone | OM | Krishna Basil, Jasmine, Lavender,
Floral Musk |
| Saharara
(Crown) |
Ether | Union with Universal Intelligence, Contemplation | Violet: amethyst, clear quartz | Frankincense, Myrrh, Lotus, Rose,
Oud Musk |
* Recommended oils are used as a combination or alone- 30% essential oil with 70% base oil.