Chakras
By Sandi Caven
The physical body is the vehicle through which our consciousness is expressed. However, in addition to the physical body we also have subtle "energy bodies" which correspond to our emotional and mental systems. The physical body is also an energy body, vibrating at a slower rate than the other energy bodies. Overlaying and interpenetrating our physical body is an energy system that allows for communication between and through the physical, emotional and mental bodies. Just as the physical body has an endocrine gland system, there are chakras in the other energy bodies. Chakra is a Sanskrit word that means "wheel." They are energy valves or transducers that help to regulate this subtle energy as it moves from pure energy or "spirit" to manifest on the physical plane.

When chakras get unbalanced or blocked, the result is often physical or mental dis-ease. However, each person has access to the information they need to maintain the free flow of their chakras. The power is within each person to heal themselves.
Below are various symptoms associated with blocks or imbalances in the different chakras and some foods that can aid in healing and rebalancing them.
1st Chakra
This chakra is located at the base of the spine for men and between the ovaries for women. It contains information pertaining to the basic survival of the body (food, shelter, etc.). When you are worried about your job, are having difficulty paying the bills, or when your health is poor or you are without a home, this chakra is effected. Symptoms of an unbalanced or blocked first chakra include, stress, constipation, sciatica problems, knee problems, arthritis, anorexia, obesity or hemorrhoids. To help heal this chakra, eat meat and other protein foods. Protein stays in the digestive system longer, thereby creating more energy for the lower parts of the body to utilize for healing and creates a sense of security for the body.
2nd Chakra
This chakra is located just below the navel. It contains information pertaining to the sexual and emotional energy of the body. When you are experiencing problems in relationships, when someone is having sexual thoughts towards you, when you find yourself in uncomfortable sexual relationships or in emotionally upsetting situations, this chakra is affected. Symptoms of an unbalanced or blocked second chakra include, uterine, bladder or kidney problems, lower back disorders, frigidity or impotency, depression or mood-swings. To help heal this chakra drink plenty of fluids. Fluids pass through the body quickly thereby cleansing the organs of toxins. Also water is related to emotional energy and is therefore soothing to the emotions.
3rd Chakra
This chakra is located at the solar plexus. It contains information pertaining to power and the distribution of energy throughout the body. When you are experiencing difficulty standing up for yourself on the job or in relationships, when you feel invalidated or overly competitive, this chakra is affected. Symptoms of an unbalanced or blocked third chakra include, ulcers, depression, fatigue, digestive and circulatory problems and nausea. To help heal this chakra eat plenty of starches. Starches are easily converted into fuel which gives the body added energy to express its power and distribute this power to the various parts of the body.
4th Chakra
This chakra is located at the heart. It contains information pertaining to your love and affinity for yourself and others. When you are always taking care of others and never allow time for yourself, when you have been invalidated or hurt in relationships this chakra is affected. Symptoms of an unbalanced or blocked fourth chakra include, high blood pressure, heart or lung problems and asthma. To help heal this chakra eat plenty of vegetables. Vegetables are a product of photosynthesis which is a process involving the natural balance of earth and cosmic energies. Our bodies are incapable of photosynthesis on a natural level by themselves, therefore eating vegetables stimulates a natural balancing within the body.
5th Chakra
This chakra is located at the throat. It contains information pertaining to creativity and communication. When you have difficulty expressing yourself verbally or creatively, or have difficulty creating the lifestyle you desire, this chakra is affected. Symptoms of an unbalanced or blocked fifth chakra include, sore throats and necks, thyroid problems, colds and hearing disorders. To help heal this chakra eat plenty of fruit. Fruits are the most highly developed (that is, the most creative) food in the food chain. They are quickly digested and provide the purest quality energy to the body without the side effects of other stimulants such as caffeine and sugar. They are beneficial in stimulating and cleansing the throat.
6th and 7th Chakras
These chakras are located in the center of the forehead and at the crown of the head respectively. They contain information pertaining to mental and spiritual states of being. When you entertain negative thinking or have a poor outlook on life, these chakras are affected. Symptoms of unbalanced or blocked sixth or seventh chakras include, headaches, boredom, apathy, nightmares, eye problems and an inability to learn. Fasting for a short period of time is useful to heal these chakras, as it helps to cleanse all the chakras, thereby creating balance which will allow the upper chakras to open up.
Enjoy the paper!