According to the ancient yogic system that describes the movement of life force, there are 7 energy centers in the body, known as the chakras or "wheels." These are maps for exploring the energy body or pranamaya kosha. From crown to root, the chakras describe the cosmic journey of spirit materializing; and, in the other direction, like the angels on Jacob's Ladder, they chart the journey back from matter to spirit.

When the natural human instincts for survival, sensation and power (the lower chakras) are in balance--neither restrained nor excessive--then the heart center opens with compassion and detachment leading to the development of authenticity, wisdom and spiritual evolution.

Learning the psychosomatic, psychoenergetic, and psychospiritual characteristics of each energy center can help us recognize and release karmic blocks and habitual patterns, healing and inspiring us to create our lives with infinite potential.