Chakras (the word originates from the ancient Sanskrit language and means “wheels”) are energy flows. They connect the “spiritual body” to the “physical body”. There are seven Main Chakras and – in the same way Shiatsu points can be stimulated by ropes – so can (and are) the Chakras. The use of Chakra energy originates from the Hindu filosophy and although as such not an integral part of Shibari, very much akin to it.

The diagram on the right shows the location of the Chakras on the human body (identical for men and women). They are all situated along the Sushumna-nadi – the main earth to air energy line.

There is hardly any real difference between the Shiatsu, acupuncture or Tantric (Chakras) approach to energy lines. The origin of the Tantric vision on energy flows is unclear, but the first writings about it date from around the year 500 and it has it roots in Hinduism.

Trantrism is a combination of art, science and religion and has had influences on many other ways of spirituality, from the traditional Chinese T’ai Chi Chuan meditation art to yoga and vice versa. Sexuality in fact is relatively small part of the entire Tantra philosophy, but nonetheless important, since it is one of the few integrated forms of sexuality (sexuality naturally integrated in a much larger philosophy and way of life).     

What are Chakras?
Chakras are depicted as Lotus flowers. Each leaf of the flower represents the growth and flourishing of the corresponding quality or specific. Each Chakra is connected to a defined psychological or spiritual function. Most of the Chakras are being associated with elements, such as air or fire. With the exception of the Cerebral Chakra each has its own mantra (a vocalized meditative sound) that vibrates with the natural vibrations of that Chakra.

Chakras can be open or closed and can be activated through yoga, meditation and sexuality. When Kundalini (the latent powerful female energy) is awakened, this will rise through the spiritual body and it will stimulate the Chakras to open in turn. Kundalini will absorb the energy of each of the Chakras until it reaches the top of the head and releases it.

Chakras – their placement, color and function

The table below describes the seven Main Chakras, their function and their corresponding identifying color.

1 – Cerebral Chakra
Color: Purple
Mantra: None
Flower leafs: 1,000
Element: None
Location: Top head
Function: Unity and Wisdom
    

 

 

2 – Forehead Chakra
Color: Indigo
Mantra: OM
Flower leafs: 2
Element: None
Location: Forehead (in between the eyebrows)
Function: Perception
    

 

 

3 – Neck Chakra
Color: Clear blue
Mantra: HAM
Flower leafs: 16
Element: Akasa (heaven, space)
Location: Front neck (throat)
Function: Creativity
    

 

4 – Heart Chakra
Color: Green
Mantra: YAM
Flower leafs: 12
Element: Air
Location: Heart
Function: Love
    

 

 

5 – Solar Plexus Chakra
Color: Yellow
Mantra: RAM
Flower leafs: 10
Element: Fire
Location: Solar plexus
Function: Power, determination
    

 

 

6 – Pubic Chakra
Color: Orange
Mantra: VAM
Flower leafs: 6
Element: Water
Location: Pubic bone
Function: Sexuality, pleasure
    

 

 

7 – Base Chakra
Color: Red
Mantra: LAM
Flower leafs: 4
Element: Earth
Location: Tailbone
Function: Survival, basic education and development
    

 

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