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Chakras are the theoretical basis for Ayervedic Medicine, the main medical practice of the Indian Subcontinent. Chakras are extremely important in Indian Yoga and other meditation practices. Chakras are seen as sites of swirling subtle energy. They are seen as entryways to higher vibrational planes. Theoretically, the astral, ethereal, mental and causal bodies may be accessed through these points of higher vibratory frequency. The human body is seen to have at least 7 levels, only one of which has a physical expression. Other levels include the Etheric which is the seat of the emotions, the Mental, which is the home of the mind, and the Causal, which is the level of spirit. The astral plane is seen as an interface between the physical body and the higher realms. Subtle energy is carried to all parts of the body
by channels called Nadi's. Nadi's are like the circulatory system
at the physical level. Nadis are similar to, but not the same
as Meridians in Chinese Medicine. According to some sources, the
Chakra system and the Meridian system of Chinese Medicine, although
both energetic in nature, are two very different, but complimentary
systems. From a Reiki perspective this is an interesting theory. It is clear that the original system developed by Dr's. Usui and Hayashi is based on manipulation of Qi within the channels and meridians according to TCM theory as it is viewed by the Japanese. Western Reiki, on the other hand has decidedly adopted the Chakra System. Chakras, frankly, have nothing to do with the Reiki that Dr. Usui brought into the world, nor is there any evidence that Mrs. Takata taught Chakra theory. I am, honestly, not sure where and when Chakras became so intimately attached to Reiki. I was not taught that in my lineage. Still, that Chakras and Reiki have become so intimately interwoven is a fact of Reiki life in the West. If it is here, it is here for a reason. I am struck by the observation that the Chakra and Meridian systems are two different but complimentary systems. Both are legitimate entryways into higher vibratory realms. There are important Acupuncture points located at the site of each Chakra which have similar effect. It is just possible that each system operates at a different frequency. A cursory observation from my perspective as an Acupuncture practitioner, is that the Meridian System is a direct pathway to the emotions. In TCM, emotional disharmony is seen as a primary cause of disease in the body. As well, there are numerous points that go beyond harmonizing emotions to 'calming the spirit.' A restless spirit has a tendency to wander away from the body and is seen as detrimental to good health. Admittedly, Eastern views of Spirit and other such words that are used regularly in association with Reiki practice, usually mean something quite different than is conventional wisdom in the West. For one thing, evaluation and protection of 'Shen' or spirit, is considered an essential component of medical practice. My experience with Ayerveda suggests that the Chakra System concentrates more at the Mental or even the Spiritual Level, even to the point in many aspects of the practice of ignoring the body and emotions altogether. From a TCM perspective, the practice of vegetarianism, for example, leads inevitably to deficiency at the physical and emotional levels. This suggests to me a fundamental difference in perspective of the two systems. While the Chinese Taoists who formulated the theories and practices upon which Traditional Chinese Medicine is based sought the secret of eternal life in a physical form, the practitioners of the Indian Subcontinent sought it in more metaphysical forms. In the Chinese system the body is primary and in the Indian system it is apparently quite secondary. Reiki is an energy of wholeness. At this stage of its development it has a foot firmly planted, as it were, in each system. It embraces both, serves both, empowers both, and becomes it seems a bridge between the two systems. As our knowledge deepens and strengthens, no doubt at some point, we will begin to figure out how these two systems fit together for the benefit of healing There are 7 main Chakras which are listed below, and a number of minor ones including one located in the palm of each hand, and another one located in the sole of each foot. Chakras are important in yogic meditation practice. In this practice one's essence is called Kundalini. Kundalini normally remains coiled like a serpent at the base of the spine. Once awakened, the Kundalini moves up the spine awakening each of the Chakras in turn. The qualities inherent in each Chakra are then manifest. The Ultimate goal is to awaken the Crown Chakra which is seen as the connection to the Universe or God. At that point, one experiences enlightenment. Enlightenment actually occurs at the point that all Chakras are wide open to the universe and there is free flow of cosmic energy into the body. Occasionally, the Kundalini is awakened spontaneously and rushes up the spine in an instant. For that instant, all the Chakras are open and one has a 'spiritual' experience. These experiences seem to be fairly common, but they are temporary and serve to give one only a glimpse of what is possible. There is no doubt that to keep the Chakras open for any length of time, takes dedication and much practice. Again, Reiki, is an energy, that can and very often does, spontaneously open chakras and gives us glimpses of the 'holy' as my teacher used to call it. Such glimpses are empowering to say the least. There are many books and classes on the subject of Chakras. In the west, each of the chakras tends to be associated with a different Endocrine Gland, a different colour, body part, human quality and so on. Different teachers, of course, have their own spin on them and how the Kundalini energy progresses up the spine. But these are the basics. So, here they are... the Chakras.
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