Nadis and Cakras, Explained: The Yogic Philosophy of the Body’s Energy Channels
The 3 Primary Energetic Channels of the Body (Nadis)
In yoga philosophy, Nadis are subtle energy channels in the body through which prana (vital energy) flows. The term Nadi translates to "river," reflecting their role in directing energy. Although there are thousands of Nadis, the three most important ones for yoga practitioners are:
Ida: Located on the left side of the body, associated with feminine energy, the moon, and the parasympathetic nervous system (rest and digest).
Pingala: Found on the right side of the body, linked to masculine energy, the sun, and the sympathetic nervous system (fight or flight).
Susumna: The central channel that represents androgyny, sunrise/sunset, and the central nervous system. All three Nadis originate at the root Cakra (Muladhara) and cross through the Susumna channel at the other six Cakra points.
The 7 Primary Energetic Points of the Body (Cakras)
Kundalini energy, or the dormant energy in the body, rests below the root Cakra at the base of the spine. This energy can be awakened and directed through practices such as pranayama (breath control) and the use of Bandhas (muscular locks). Bandhas help to control the flow of energy in specific areas of the body and are often used in conjunction with the different Cakras.
The root Cakra (Muladhara) promotes a sense of safety and neutral calm. The Mula Bandha is associated with the root Cakra and requires tensing muscles in the pelvic area.
Above this, in the hip area, is the orange sacral Cakra (Svadhisthana), which is associated with creativity and pleasure.
Next, at the center of the belly, is the yellow solar plexus Cakra (Manipura), linked to self-confidence. This Cakra can be activated through the Uddiyana Bandha by tensing the stomach and abdomen and pulling upward.
The green heart Cakra (Anahata) is located in the center of the chest and is associated with love and compassion.
Above the heart Cakra is the blue throat Cakra (Visuddha), which is related to communication and listening. The Jalandhara Bandha (chin lock) is often used during pranayama (breath control) practice.
The indigo third eye Cakra (Ajna) is situated between the eyebrows and is associated with intuition.
The final Cakra is the violet crown Cakra (Sahasrara), which is associated with connection to the source and divinity.
When all of our Cakras are balanced, we are able to access all of the associated positive energies that they represent. When we have energetic blockages in one of our Cakra areas, it means that the Kundalini energy is not able to continue flowing up from the base of the spine; it is at an impasse. We can release these blockages by practicing Pranayama and Dharana (concentrated meditation). When practicing these and the remaining eight limbs of Ashtanga yoga, we are able to get closer to the central goal of yoga: calming the fluctuations of the mind and finding a state of bliss and divinity.
