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According to the yogic tradition, chakras are seven energy centers that run along the center line of the body. When we are in balance, our chi, or life force energy, flows properly through our bodies. When these centers are blocked, our mental and physical health can be negatively affected. The second chakra is called Svadhisthana, is associated with the color orange, and is located in the lower abdomen and inside the pelvis. Yoga teacher Stephanie Snyder says svadhisthana means one’s own home.
The symbol for the sacral chakra is orange with six petals surrounding the center. The circles connected to the lotus petals represent the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. The tangent circles also create a crescent moon shape, reminding us of the relationship between creativity and the phases of the moon. According to Sahara Rose, the colors and symbols associated with various energy centers reflect the vibrations of the chakras. When the ancient rishis meditated on the energies of the chakras, these were the colors and symbols that came to their mind’s eye.
This chakra is associated with sensuality and creativity. The main function of this energy center is joy and overall enjoyment of life. When this chakra is balanced and functioning properly, we can expect our relationships with ourselves and the world to be harmonious, joyful, and nurturing.
According to Snyder, the svadhisthana chakra is associated with the element of water. The water element represents flow, flexibility, and freedom of expression when it comes to emotion and sensuality. When balanced, this energy center provides direct access to flow, flexibility, and enjoyment.
By working with this chakra, you will be working on your relationships with both others and yourself. Personally, you will realize that you have unlimited creative potential. Learn how to have joyful and healthy relationships. This will give you insight into your default reactions and deepest emotions, and help you learn how to deal with the depth of your emotions. You will be able to express your wants, needs, and emotions more freely to others. You’ll also learn how to express yourself better and start setting healthy boundaries.
See also: Beginner’s Guide to Chakras
Signs that Svadhisthana energy is blocked
Blocked energy within the chakras can manifest in our emotional, spiritual, and even physical bodies. Physical symptoms of chakra blockages often occur in blocked areas of energy centers. When the sacral chakra is misaligned, the following symptoms may appear:
Blocked chakras can also have a significant impact on the quality of your mind and thoughts. Psychologically, blocks of divine energy can manifest as problems such as codependency or being emotionally overwhelmed. Other signs your sacral chakra may be blocked:
- overindulging in sexual fantasies
- lack of interest in sex
- Difficulty expressing feelings, needs, and creativity
How to balance the sacral chakra
Chakras can become blocked due to certain habits or imbalances in the body, mind, and soul, but with the right tools and care, these energy centers can be brought back to normal. Here are some ways to balance your sacral chakra to optimize creativity, joy, and emotional expression.
- Practice asana poses that target the sacral region. These poses include Ananda Balasana (Happy Baby), Utkata Konasana (Goddess Pose), and Malasana (Squat).
- Balance the sacral chakra using stones and crystals.
- Take a soothing bath with essential oils.
- Tap into your creative side through journaling, dance, art, or whatever form of expression you prefer.
- Practice using affirmations.
A healthy sacral chakra provides energy for creativity, movement, reproduction, desire, pleasure, and relationships. You will be able to freely express your wants and needs in your relationships, and your pleasure will become a priority. Once your sacrum is aligned, your creativity and visualization will be easier to unleash.
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