The seven chakras are centres of immense concentrated energy within the body. The imbalance in each chakra is reflected in different physical and physiological symptoms. Essential oils can help us in rebalancing our chakras when they are sluggish or out of sync, leading to better emotional and physical health
Colin G Hall
The term Chakra is a Sanskrit word which literally means “wheel of light.” They have been described by many as a spinning wheel of light and colour located along the spine from the base to the crown of the head. It is generally understood that when we refer to the chakras, we mean one of the seven major energy centres within the body. However, there are many more chakras in the body, in this study I am covering only the major seven.
The spine acts as the elevator shaft for energy to flow freely in the body., And if energy can flow freely, balance and wellbeing can be achieved. However, if there are obstacles thrown in its path, like a blocked chakra, imbalances and ill health maybe experienced. The spine has been likened to a snake when it is active, and the chakras can be likened to the various floors within a building, situated along the length of this powerful snake.
Each of the seven traditional chakras has a physical, an emotional, a creative and a spiritual component within. Each chakra has its own purpose in the body, based upon the area of consciousness that it influences and gives us the tools for identifying sources of conflict in our lives as they arise. In simple terms, we have a chakra for each issue that we commonly think about. They provide us with a map for activating and balancing the various levels of life experiences. Chakras act as a map if you like of our inner world – the relationship we have with ourselves and how to experience energy of life in its many forms.
Each chakra is found next to or near a physical hormonal gland or major organs. Chakras receive and radiate energy constantly; acting as storehouses and transmitters of Universal Energy. For example, if we hold negative thoughts, our chakras may become dirty in appearance and dense in their energy flow resulting in imbalance and negativity. As a result, the physical body does not work as effectively and both mentally and spiritually. And we may begin to lose touch with our inner self and our higher awareness – our intuitive abilities or gut instincts if you like. So, depending on where our thoughts are based a certain state of health will manifest itself. Negative, positive, traumatic or pleasurable, etc. Love and faith-based thoughts result in a smooth energy flow through the chakras and thus the physical body feels well and happy. On the other hand, anxiety, stress, obsession and fear-based thoughts affect the chakra that relates to the issues we are thinking about, thus causing a blockage or restriction in the flow of energy to that part of the body and we become, ill, depressed, stressed and unhappy.
Our Chakras are constantly in a state of rotation, active, never passive. It is their rotation which attracts energy; which is drawn in or given out. When using essential oil blends, specific oils can be inhaled or applied to the skin through gentle massage using circular movements, corresponding to the chakra that needs balance.
As a fully qualified Aromatherapist, trained in the United Kingdom by the world recognised, International Federation of Aromatherapists, I strive on a daily basis to use pure essential oils, crafted in synergistic blends or as single notes to enhance the wellbeing of myself, family, friends, colleagues and anyone who has the desire to explore the power of nature in the form of pure essential oils for better mental, physical and spiritual wellbeing. Read on and try to identify which of your chakras maybe out of balance and learn how to bring balance back to your daily lives in a simple and proven way.
The First or Base/ Root Chakra
This chakra is situated at the base of the spine and its symbolic colour is red. In the body it governs the legs, feet, bones, sciatic nerves and teeth. This chakra deals with issues relating to survival, security, protection and safety. If you are feeling ungrounded or anxious about daily needs and possessions, this may be a sign of a dysfunction in the base chakra.
Base/root charka imbalances are: weight problems, haemorrhoids, constipation, sciatica, degenerative arthritis, knee problems, anxiety and stress.
The essential oils of Vetiver, Ginger, Himalayan Cedarwood, Frankincense, Grapefruit and Cardamom have a special affinity with the root chakra. They are extremely grounding and calming, especially good for persons who suffer from worry, despair, lack of confidence and suffer greatly from anxiety.
They can be used as a single essential oil as per a personal preference to a certain aroma or in a synergistic blend such as Frankincense, Vetiver and Ginger.
Ginger is known to have an affinity with several chakras so when in doubt Ginger is your choice.
Each chakra is found next to or near a physical hormonal gland or major organs. Chakras receive and radiate energy constantly; acting as storehouses and transmitters of Universal Energy. For example, if we hold negative thoughts, our chakras may become dirty in appearance and dense in their energy flow resulting in imbalance and negativity. As a result, the physical body does not work as effectively and both mentally and spiritually. And we may begin to lose touch with our inner self and our higher awareness – our intuitive abilities or gut instincts if you like.
The Second or Sacral Chakra
The sacral chakra is located between the navel and the base of the spine. Its primary colour is orange and it governs the genitals, womb, kidneys, bladder and circulatory and reproductive systems. This chakra relates to sensuality and sexuality, creativity, trust and relationships. If you are feeling negative about your body image or struggling with a physical relationship, this could be a sign that there may be blockages in this chakra.
Sacral chakra imbalances are: uterine, kidney or bladder problems, impotence, frigidity, stiff or sore lower back, unable to maintain a physical relationship.
The essential oils of Ylang Ylang, Jasmine, Ginger, Black Pepper, Mandarin, Sweet Orange and Rose Geranium help to open and accept others and ourselves. These oils also have aphrodisiac qualities, balancing the hormones as well as stimulating sexual desire.
They can be used as a single essential oil as per a personal preference to a certain aroma or in a synergistic blend such as Ylang Ylang, Jasmine and Rose Geranium.
The Third or Solar Plexus Chakra
Situated between the navel and the solar plexus, this chakra governs the digestive system and muscles. Its symbolic colour is yellow, and it relates to the individual’s drive for power and control, willpower, opinions and self-assertiveness. If feeling weak or too strong in any of these areas, it might suggest an imbalance in the solar plexus.
The essential oils of Bergamot, Vetiver, Ginger, Lemon, Rosemary, Cedarwood, Lemon Grass and Carrot Seed have a calming and relaxing effect on the Solar Plexus, helping to digest or dissolve difficult emotions. The essential oil of Rosemary, however, is particularly good for a weak Solar Plexus, as it has both stimulating and refreshing qualities.
They can be used as a single essential oil as per personal preference to a certain aroma or in a synergistic blend such as Lemon, Bergamot and Rosemary.
The Fourth or Heart Chakra
The lungs, heart, arms and hands are governed by this chakra. Its symbolic colour is green. Although many disagree and say its colour is pink. This chakra deals with issues such as love, forgiveness, compassion, balance, relating to others and attachment to others. If facing difficulties in these, it may indicate an imbalance in the heart chakra.
Heart chakra imbalances are: high blood pressure, heart disease, lung disease, asthma, loss, grief and sadness.
The essential oils of Rose, Neroli, Frankincense, Ginger, Lavender, Petitgrain, Bergamot and Eucalyptus have a special affinity with the heart chakra. They are harmonizing and gentle, their natural vibrations heal the wounds of any heart. Rose and Neroli are especially useful for states of grief, and for those who have lost in love.
They can be used as a single essential oil as per a personal preference to a certain aroma or in a suggested synergistic blend such as Frankincense, Neroli and Rose.
The Fifth or Throat Chakra
The throat chakra governs the neck and shoulders and its symbolic colour is blue. It deals with all aspects of communication and expression and with speaking the truth. Difficulty in expressing personal needs, expressing feelings and thoughts may be caused by an imbalance in this chakra.
Throat chakra imbalances are: sore throat, stiff neck, colds, thyroid problems, hearing problems and poor communication.
The essential oils of Eucalyptus, Ginger, Cypress, Roman Chamomile, Frankincense, Bergamot and Rose Geranium clears and widens this chakra. They open an individual up to their inner voice allowing them to communicate more naturally and without fear and anxiety. Roman Chamomile is specifically powerful as it has a special affinity with the throat chakra, by relieving stress and anxiety when giving public speeches, physical problems with speech and communication with friends, families and colleagues.
They can be used as a single essential oil as per a personal preference to a certain aroma or in a suggested synergistic blend such as Roman Chamomile, Cypress and Eucalyptus.
The Sixth or Third Eye Chakra
This chakra is in the centre of the forehead and governs the eyes. Its symbolic colour is indigo, and it relates to our intuition, imagination, inspiration and beliefs. Feeling out of touch with internal wisdom may indicate an imbalance in this chakra.
Third eye chakra imbalances are: headaches, blindness, nightmares, eyestrain, blurred vision and a disconnection of the mental thought and the physical response.
The essential oils of Himalayan Cedarwood, Peppermint, Ginger, Frankincense, Bergamot, Cypress, Spikenard and Rose relax and dispel anxiety, opens the mind to unveil the hidden truth within, enabling a journey towards balance.
They can be used as a single essential oil as per a personal preference to a certain aroma or in a suggested synergistic blend such as Himalayan Cedarwood, Peppermint and Frankincense.
The Seventh or Crown Chakra
The crown chakra is located on top of the head, governing the brain and the central nervous system. Its symbolic colour is violet to white and it relates to spirituality, religion, understanding, bliss and our connection to our higher selves or god. If you are feeling depressed, with no direction in life, this chakra may be blocked.
Crown chakra imbalances are: depression, confusion, boredom, apathy, feelings of alienation, learning difficulties and loss of religious faith.
The essential oils of Frankincense, Spikenard, Basil, Lavender, Ginger, Rose and Peppermint are spiritual cleansers, removing negativity and unwanted thoughts and clutter from the mind allowing it to come back into balance. They are especially good for meditation, and for allowing an individual’s mind to be still.
They can be used as a single essential oil as per a personal preference to a certain aroma or in a suggested synergistic blend such as Frankincense, Basil and Spikenard.
Recommended ways to use single essential oils of specific synergistic blends specifically designed to assist in balancing chakras
Inhalation: The inhalation of essential oils can bring about the fastest results in balancing of the chakras as it works on the olfactory system, deep inside the brain, bringing speedy relief to all kinds of mental, physical and spiritual imbalances. Caution: close the eyes when inhaling.
- For immediate effect, sprinkle 3-6 drops of appropriate single note essential oil or synergistic blend onto an organic handkerchief, muslin cloth or chemical free tissue, inhale slowly and deeply, and repeat at 15 second intervals for up to fifteen minutes, then a feeling of wellness and balance should envelop the mind, body and spirit.
- Add 3-4 drops of appropriate single note essential oil or synergistic blend to a basin of warm water. Lean over the bowl, covering the head with a towel, and inhale deeply several times. Caution: do not use this method if you suffer from Asthma.
- Add 6 drops of appropriate single note essential oil or synergistic blend to warm water in an aroma diffuser (with tea light candlelight) or better still an electric diffuser. Inhale deeply as the room fills with a natural fragrance for balancing and restoring mental, physical and spiritual wellbeing. It is also good for creating an amazing aroma within a personally selected safe space. Caution: never leave candles burning unattended.
Full body Bath: Using a blend of essential oils in a warm bath is enjoyable and powerfully therapeutic. The oils act in two ways; through absorption into the skin then into the blood stream and through inhalation, as warm water causes evaporation of the essential oil molecules which are inhaled then passed into the blood stream. Add 8 drops of a chosen essential oil such as Frankincense or chosen blend to a warm bath and stay in the water for 20 minutes. Essential oils used in a bath must first be mixed with a dispersant, for example a teaspoon of sweet almond, or coconut oil, full fat milk or alcohol. If you have dry or sensitive skin, add the essential oils to a greater amount of carrier oil like Jojoba or Avocado and then add to the water. I personally find that if my base chakra is out of balance four drops of Vetiver and four of Ginger assist in balancing this chakra; ground, relax and assist in sending me into deep sleep, if taken at night.
Foot & hand baths: Add 5-6 drops of chakra specific single essential oil or prepared blend to a bowl of warm water or a footbath and soak for 15 minutes. (Essential oils used in foot or hand baths must first be mixed with a dispersant, for example, a teaspoon of sweet almond, or coconut oil, full fat milk or alcohol. If you have dry or sensitive skin, add the essential oils to a greater amount of carrier oil like Jojoba or Avocado and then add to the water. Wrap feet or hands in a dry towel and follow with an application of an appropriate blend of essential oils in a nourishing carrier such as Jojoba, Moringa or Sweet Almond or a soothing Rose, Lavender, Geranium or Cedarwood infused Aloe gel.)
Massage application: Add four drops of chakra specific essential oil or blend to 10 ml or eight drops to 20 ml or 40 drops to 100 ml of a carrier oil such as Moringa, Sweet Almond, Jojoba, etc. Decant into a bowl then apply to damp skin, either for a self-massage after a warm shower or seek a professional masseuse to make the journey to wellbeing and balance more special and luxurious. Massage assists the passage of essential oils into the body whilst relaxing the muscles, enabling the blood and lymph to flow more freely and soothe the mind. Massage is beneficial to specific areas of the total body depending on the condition being treated. Always massage in upward strokes, and always apply oils to a damp moist skin, as this aids the absorption of the oils into the skin and essential oils into the blood stream. Along with bathing, massage is by far the most pleasing way to balance chakras as well as benefitting an enormous amount of other health related issues.
