The seven chakras are the main energy centres within the body. Many of us have probably heard people talking about chakras and “unblocking” their chakras. This process of unblocking refers to the idea that when all of our chakras are open, energy can run through them freely. When energy can move through your chakras this means that balance and harmony can exist between the physical body, mind, and spirit connection. So how can we support and balance chakras?
The important thing to be mindful of is that although balancing all the chakras is important and connecting energy between them is the aim, sometimes it may be that one, in particular, that needs focus. Or if you feel that you need a complete rebalance, it is recommended to start with the root and work through the charkas to the crown.
We will look at each chakra, what it supports, how to identify if it is out of balance, what essential oils can support that chakra and how you might work with that chakra effectively.
In this first part of working with the chakras, we look at the three lower chakras, Root, Sacral and Solar Plexus. These chakras look after your physical and emotional identity. They are also related to your connection to the physical world and your relationship with your own self-image. The lower chakras are also the key to staying connected and being grounded, so therefore it is fundamental to start with these.
Essential oils have their own energy, the essence of the plant from which they were obtained, so working with essential oils to support and balance chakras can be very powerful.
Root Chakra
The root chakra is the first chakra to look at when working with your chakras in alignment. This chakra focuses on your foundation for life, it’s main job is to keep you grounded. It is responsible for your sense of trust, stability and security. It is often seen and described as a fiery red colour.
If this chakra is not balanced, you may be experiencing a feeling of being in your head. Also, sluggishness, despite having plenty of rest. You may also have a new sense of worry about finances or things that are out of your control. Some people also describe feeling stuck and unhappy within their bodies.
Essential oils for support and balance: Cedarwood, Myrrh or Vetiver
To work with this chakra and bring it back into balance, create a quiet, tranquil spot at home and plan for some meditation. Even if it’s just five minutes, this will help start to bring you back into your body and ground.
Set up your diffuser with approx. 100mls of water and then add:
Start your diffuser at least ten minutes before you plan to meditate, so the blend has time to circulate in the room and support your experience. Look to work with music that has 396 Hz, this is a smooth and low frequency that can support the root chakra.
Sacral Chakra
The Sacral chakra is the next inline, found around your naval area and often linked to the colour orange. It focuses on sexuality, sexual desire and creativity. It is also often linked to emotional connections we have with ourselves and others.
You may be feeling emotionally detached if this chakra is out of balance. Often, we feel a loss of sex drive as well. We may also feel hurt and confused about relationships and friendships and cannot seem to shake this feeling.
Essential oils for support and balance: Orange, Ylang Ylang and Bergamot
To awaken and balance the sacral we can explore our creative side. Movement supports this, which could be soft and slow, such as a yoga practice. Or if something more energic is your thing, ecstatic dance is a strong practice for this. Or just putting on your favourite upbeat songs and moving in any way you want can work just as well.
A gentle mist of essential oils from a spray can heighten this experience with movement. Try creating your own sacral aroma spray with the following.
- 50mls of distilled water
- 50mls of rosewater
- 10 Drops of Orange
- 10 Drops of Ylang Ylang
- 10 Drops of Bergamot
Mix in a 100ml spray bottle and give a gentle shake. Spray above you and in the air as you start to dance or just before your yoga movement. 2-4 sprays will be enough, but if you want to top up during your practice, another couple of sprays will keep your vibe high.
Solar Plexus Chakra
The Solar Plexus chakra is often described as a bright, sunny yellow and located just above your stomach area. This chakra has a strong focus on your wisdom and power. It also leads to your confidence and self-esteem, often giving you that feeling of being in control of your life.
If this chakra is not connected and out of balance, you may be feeling powerless or even anxious. Often people describe it as having that gut feeling that things are just ‘off’. Some people will sometimes physically suffer from stomach aches and pains when this chakra is not aligned.
Essential oils for support and balance: Ginger and Lemongrass
To get the Solar Plexus shining brightly once more we often need to tap into our creativity. Try and set aside some time to do something you love, something that fills you with joy. This might be something as simple as reading a book, or maybe some painting, drawing or even some singing. The activity needs to get those creative vibes high.
Set up your diffuser with approx. 100mls of water and then add:
- 3 drops of Ginger
- 3 drops of Lemongrass
A diffuser blend for awakening creativity can help set the tone for dedicated creative time. Set the diffuser to run as you read, paint or sing, notice how the essential oil scent makes you feel, and see if you notice a change in your Solar Plexus area.
Written by qualified Aromatherapist, Simone Stevens MFHT @sensesbysim
