The first chakra is located at the base of our spine. When the root chakra is imbalanced we start to feel insecure, anxious, and without energy. When activated we feel confident, grounded, and secure. This yoga pose, Vajrasana (Thunderbolt Pose), is one of many used to directly open and activate Muladhara.

The second chakra is located at our sacrum. When imbalanced we are more likely to be controlled by our earthly attachments. When activated we are able to access our creativity, sensual pleasure, and healthy emotions. The pose, Anjaneyasana (Crescent Pose), is used to allow energy to flow through our Svadishthana.

The third chakra is located in our stomach area. An imbalance causes a lack of control and a loss of identity. When activated it allows us to access our personal power and motivation. The pose, Dhanurasana (Bow Pose), is used to open the Manipura.  

The fourth chakra is located at the center of the chest. When there is an imbalance one may feel fearful, hurt and, hatred. When anahata is open we associate this with love, healing, and joy. The yoga pose, Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose), is used to activate anahata.

The fifth chakra is located at the center of the base of the throat, near the spine. A blockage at this chakra is associated with gossiping, dishonesty, and difficulty speaking one's mind. When opened you will access the ability to communicate and speak truth. The yoga pose, Halasana (Plow Pose), is used to activate vishuddhi.

The sixth chakra is located at the center of the head, between the eyebrows, and physically contacted to the pineal gland. Emotional blockages of this chakra is associated with close mindedness, lack of intuition, and inability to self-reflect. When aligned we experience wisdom, awareness, and intuition. The yoga pose, Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-facing Dog Pose) is used to open this ajna.

The seventh chakra is located at the top of the head. When blocked one will experience an inability to detach from materialistic desires, lack of inspiration, and greed. When aligned we access enlightenment, serenity, and a unity with the universe. A yoga pose used to allow this energy to flow is Vrikshasana (Tree Pose).