Crystals and their Chakra connections

Crystals and their Chakra connections

"Chakra" is a Sanskrit word meaning ‘energy wheel’, which relates to various focal points in the body, used in a variety of ancient meditation practices, known as tantra, or the esoteric/inner traditions of Hinduism and Buddhism. 

The chakra mapping system that is most prevelant in the West is of Hindu origin, deriving from a branch of yoga called 'kundalini' yoga. The Hindu-based yoga chakra system contains 7 main chakras, located at (1) the base of the spine (root), (2) lower pelvis (Sacral), (3) solar plexus, (4) center of chest (heart), (5) throat, (6) forehead (third eye), and (7) crown of the head. These differ from the Buddhist system of chakras, which is defined as (1) Root (Secret) (2) Navel (3)Heart (4) Throat (5) Crown. 

The main difference is in the number of chakras between these two systems.  Location is another key difference between Hindu yogic and tantric Buddhist chakra mappings. in the yoga system with 7 chakras, the 3rd chakra is usually determined to be in the solar plexus, while in the Buddhist systems, it is very often located lower, just below the navel. In all chakra systems, the chakras are said to be connected through 'nadis' or energy channels, and these two also differ between systems. Also, different colors, elements, symbols, and mantras (chants/sounds) are associated with each chakra. These colors, symbols, and mantras are the main ways to work with the chakras meditatively in the Buddhist traditions. Stone and crystals therefore can be used at chakra centers for clearing, revitalizing, and aiding healing. There are many different crystals and gemstones that correspond to each of the chakras, which may help in various ways.

Root Chakra

The Root Chakra is located at the base of your spine by your tailbone. This is your grounding chakra that provides you with a feeling of stability and security that your basic needs are met, including physical safety along with financial and emotional security. This chakra is associated with your connection to your physical body and the earth, and also with the performance of your first three vertebrae, bladder, and colon. Signs that your Root Chakra is blocked include greed and excessive negativity or feelings of insecurity, as well as feeling distant or disconnected to the world and those around you. The Root Chakra is associated with the color red, brown and black. The following chakra crystals can help you align it:

Red Jasper: Red Jasper is a strong protection gemstone that is said to absorb negative energy. It represents our foundation and a feeling of being grounded.

Red Garnet: Garnet is a cleansing chakra crystal that reenergizes the chakras, purifies and balances energy, and brings passion and serenity when you need it.

Hematite: This healing crystal, named after the Greek word for blood, can be used to promote better relationships, block negative energy, root your body to the earth, and also improve blood flow.

Red Jade: is said to ward off negative energies, calm your heart/mind, and invite more peace and serenity into your life.  Therefore, red jade is an excellent stone for the root chakra.

Sacral Chakra

The Sacral Chakra is located within your lower abdomen, just below your navel. It represents your sense of abundance, well-being, creativity, sexuality and pleasure. This assists in your sense of control within your body and how you find balance in your life. Proper balance in this chakra means the ability to flow with emotions freely and to feel and reach out to others sexually or not.  If this chakra is blocked a person may feel emotionally explosive, manipulative,  obsessed with thoughts of sex or may lack energy.    Physical problems may include, kidney weakness,  stiff lower back,  constipation, and muscle spasms. Belly body parts include sexual organs (women), kidneys, bladder, and large intestine. The Sacral Chakra is associated with the color orange. Healing crystals that correspond to this chakra include:

Amber: Amber is both calming and energizing and can be used to manifest desires and to relieve physical pain.

Carnelian: This chakra crystal restores vitality and motivation, and stimulates creativity. It gives courage, promotes positive life choices, dispels apathy, and motivates for success.  

Sunstone: It is an amazing stone to engage your second chakra as it has really strong and positive vibrations. It is the stone of leadership which helps Improving confidence, leadership qualities and enthusiasm.

Solar Plexus Chakra

The Solar Plexus Chakra is located in the upper abdominal area. It dictates your self-esteem and self-confidence. The third chakra is the center of personal power, the place of ego , of passions, impulses, anger and strength. This chakra is associated with your digestive system, which provides energy to your body and fuels your metabolism. An out of balance Solar Plexus Chakra also manifests in a feeling of stress and helplessness over your lack of control of the situation, leaving you mentally and physically exhausted. Physical problems may include digestive difficulties, liver problems, diabetes, nervous exhaustion, and food allergies. The Solar Plexus Chakra is associated with the color yellow and can be aligned with the following healing crystals:

Agate: a stone of protection, physical strength, harmony and good luck, Agate enhances creativity and strengthens intellect.

Citrine: Citrine is a stone of personal manifestation and imagination.

Tiger’s Eye: this stone attracts good luck and prosperity and increases confidence, intuition and mental clarity.

Yellow Jade: this stone assists with your ability to be confident and in control of your life.  

Heart Chakra

The Heart Chakra is located in the center of your chest, just above your heart. This chakra is the center for love, compassion and spirituality. This center directs one's ability to love themselves and others, to give and to receive love. This is also the chakra connecting body and mind with spirit. Deep heart hurts can result in aura obstructions called heart scars. When these scars are released, they raise a lot of old pain, but free the heart for healing and new growth. When this chakra is out of balance you may feel sorry for yourself, paranoid, indecisive, afraid of letting go, afraid of getting hurt, or unworthy of love.  Other signs that your Heart Chakra is blocked is defensiveness, jealousy, fear of intimacy, holding grudges and unforgiveness. Physical illnesses include heart attack, high blood pressure, insomnia, and difficult in breathing. When this chakra is balanced you may feel compassionate, friendly, empathetic, desire to nurture others and see the good in everyone. The Heart Chakra is associated with the colors green and pink. To align this chakra, you should opt for healing crystals such as:

Rose Quartz: This is a chakra crystal of beauty and love that promotes compassion, appreciation and soothing, calming feelings.

Amazonite: Amazonite represents knowledge and divine guidance. It aids in communication and in synchronizing your thoughts with the words you speak.

Aventurine: This is a stone of prosperity, leadership and optimism.  

Throat Chakra

The Throat Chakra is located in your throat, and it includes your neck, throat, thyroid glands, jaw, mouth and tongue. This chakra focuses on your ability to communicate and express yourself. The Throat Chakra is associated with self-expression, speaking your truth, and knowing your purpose in life. If you feel as if the filter between what you say and what you think is not aligned, including feelings of insecurity or verbal aggressiveness, your Throat Chakra may be imbalanced. Additional signs of blockage include not keeping secrets or telling lies, or on the opposite side of the spectrum, being shy or secretive. Physical signs of imbalance manifest in sore throats and coughs, as well as sinus or thyroid problems. The Throat Chakra corresponds with the color blue. Healing crystals that are associated with this chakra include:

Turquoise: Turquoise is a stone of protection and strength that promotes leadership, communication and mental relaxation.

Aquamarine: Aquamarine is known for its ability to clear the mind, aid creativity and to balance the emotions.

Blue Apatite: This is a stone that promotes creativity and communication. Use it to clear confusion and achieve your goals.  

Third Eye Chakra

The Third Eye Chakra is located in your forehead between your eyes. This chakra allows you to focus on and see the big picture in life. It is your center of intuition, wisdom, and your ability to think and make rational decisions. If you feel stuck in a rut and your daily routine has got you down, your Third Eye Chakra may be imbalanced. Additional signs that this chakra is blocked or misaligned include illusions, lack of clarity, and not being able to see beyond the present moment to the bigger picture. Signs that your Third Eye Chakra is blocked also include problems with your eyes, ears, spinal cord or hair and scalp, as well as experiences with headaches/migraines, nightmares, and neurological and personality disorders. The Third Eye Chakra is associated with the color indigo. This chakra is associated with the following crystals:

Sodalite: This is a chakra crystal of intellect that can be used to enhance clarity of thought, concentration and focus.

Lapis Lazuli: This is a healing stone of power, wisdom, truth and good judgment. It is a chakra crystal to promote intuition.

Blue Sapphire: A stone of insight and happiness, Blue Sapphire helps you resolve issues and fulfill your goals and ambitions.  

Crown Chakra

The Crown Chakra is located at the top of your head, where you would place a crown. This is your highest chakra that represents your connection to the spiritual world and enlightenment. When you are feeling down, have a lack of purpose, or other feelings of depression or mental exhaustion, your Crown Chakra is in need of attention. Other signs of imbalance include a disconnection with either higher powers or with your body and earthly matters, close-mindedness, or an obsession with spiritual matters and a disregard for ‘reality.’ Physical signs that your crown chakra is blocked include clumsiness, incoordination and light sensitivity The Crown Chakra is associated with the color violet or white. Chakra crystals that correspond to this chakra include:

Clear Quartz: This healing crystal magnifies the properties of all other stones and it aids in our ability to connect with our soul for enlightenment.

Moonstone: The ultimate stone of fertility, Moonstone opens up your heart to be more nurturing and accepting of love from those around you.

Amethyst: Amethyst is a healing crystal that represents royalty, spirituality and creativity. It enhances the aura and boosts self-esteem, and it can be used to ease headaches and heal addictions – all issues related to the Crown Chakra.