We're acknowledging the beautiful works of body art from chakras to mandala tattoos on International Earth Chakra Day. The chakra system refers to the energy centres we have in our bodies, and they make great tattoos.
This is an annual day that draws focus to the Earth’s 7 main chakras:
- Root chakra
- Sacral chakra
- Solar plexus chakra
- Heart chakra
- Throat chakra
- Third-eye chakra
- Crown chakra
Chakras are an ancient energy system that originated in India. They’re a primary component of yoga, Ayurvedic, and Hindu teachings. Over the past century, the concept of the chakras has tickled the imagination more than almost any other teaching from the yoga tradition. With the rise of tattooing more people are opting for this style of body art associated with a holistic way of thinking.
Chakras are focal points for meditation in the in the Tantrik traditions. Through body art we can appreciate and be reminded of this. Earth is a conscious and vibrant living entity, according to those celebrating International Earth Chakra Day. Not only do our bodies have chakras, but the earth does too! Energy flows through these chakras and makes up the spiritual body that is our world.
What do the 7 chakras mean?
Root Chakra
Located at the base of your spine, the root chakra, or Muladhara, provides a foundation for life. It grounds you, bringing security and stability for you to face life’s challenges.
Sacral Chakra
The sacral chakra is located just below your belly button is the sacral chakra, or Svadhisthana, which is responsible for sexual and creative energy.
Solar Plexus Chakra
The solar plexus chakra, or Manipura, located in your stomach area is responsible for confidence and self-esteem, and it helps you to feel in control of your life.
Heart Chakra
In the centre of your chest is the heart chakra, or Anahata. Through our heart, we have the ability to love and show compassion.
Throat Chakra
Located in your throat, the throat chakra, or Vishuddha, has to do with our ability to communicate verbally with others.
Third-Eye Chakra
Between your eyes is the third eye chakra, or Ajna, responsible for intuition, imagination, and that strong gut feeling you get from time to time. Be sure to listen!
Crown Chakra
The crown chakra, or Sahasrara, is located at the top of your head and represents the spiritual connection to yourself, others, and the universe. Your life’s purpose is found here.
What are chakras?
The word “chakra” means “disk” or “wheel” in Sanskrit. They refer to points of spinning energy corresponding to certain nerve bundles and major organs in our body. Chakras need to be open and balanced for us to remain healthy.
A blocked or overactive chakra may lead to emotional and even physical pain, according to Healthline.
Each chakra is associated with certain stones. It’s believed that the stone’s energy can stabilise the specific chakra. Chakra stones are also known as healing crystals or healing stones. Why not take the time on International Earth Chakra Day to grab a few?
There isn’t a lot of scientific evidence behind the use of chakra stones, but there’s no harm in giving them a try. There’s something to be said for the mind-body connection. Researchers have found that a person’s mind may have more power to heal than we realise.
The more open-minded you are to healing, then the more likely you are to reap the benefits.
How to balance your chakras
Visualise your chakras by imagining a swirling wheel of energy where matter and consciousness meet in the form of a lotus flower. In Sanskrit, this energy is called Prana. It’s the vital life force which keeps us vibrant, healthy, and alive.
Luckily, there are ways to realign your chakras through balance and alignment in your physical body. Here’s a few great ways to align your chakras:
- Practicing yoga.
- Breathing exercises to encourage energy flow.
- Meditation to bring about clarity of mind.
- Work with a professional energy healer.
For further reading, check out: The Art of Mindfulness.
Popular Chakra Tattoos
The knowledge of chakras was passed down orally for many years. People would draw the 7 main chakras on their bodies for spiritual and physical energy.
We see the emergence of chakra tattoos from this tradition, which have a deep and symbolic meaning to the bearer. In modern times, you may choose to have chakra tattoos to feel spiritual, grounded, and uplifted.
Or you might just think they’re pretty or trendy! That’s okay too.
You may choose to have many chakras tattooed on yourself, and others may select one or two that they wish to amplify. Most commonly, chakra tattoos are found on the back in alignment with the spine, however they can be found most anywhere.
Legs and arms offer great tattoo real estate, so why not consider it?
In Indian societies, the 7 main chakras and a cobra tattooed together represent a significant connection with spirituality. They come in many colours, and are simply a beautiful addition to any tattoo enthusiast’s canvas.
If you are looking for tattoo inspiration on International Earth Chakra Day to help you focus the energy of the Earth, then you know what to do.
