Chakras and Christianity: East Meets West

Although I have been aware of my own Chakra energy for many years, recently I discovered a connection of the Chakras to Christians and the Bible. The Wheaton Franciscan Sisters have incorporated the Chakra system into their spirituality and healing art.

Studied for thousands of years, the Chakra system originated in India between 1500 and 500 B.C. The word chakra means "wheel" in Sanskrit in the oldest writings, the Vedas. It is spelled "cakra" but pronounced "chakra." According to Hindu tradition, the chakras are wheels of light or energy centers running along the spine up to the top of the head. The chakra system, made up of seven main chakra points, is connected to our body not just on a physical level, but on an emotional, spiritual and mental one as well. Balancing the chakra system heals the body as a whole.

When visiting Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital in Wheaton, Illinois, which was founded by the Wheaton Franciscan Sisters, I stopped by the chapel in their new facility and was surprised to read the sign outside the entrance stating that the stained glass windows were designed according to the colors of the Chakras. Sure enough. The beauty of the windows took my breath away...red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet along the side wall. And above the altar hung a cross which contained a lovely design incorporating all of the colors.

Last week, while preparing for a radio interview, I prayed for guidance. “What would you have me say, oh Lord.” I laid down to rest, and in minutes I began to receive Scripture for each of the Chakras. I grabbed paper and pen and wrote them out immediately. I am delighted to share this wisdom with you.

ROOT CHAKRA: Red is the color of our life force which represents the earth energy. The Root Chakra is located at the base of the spine in front of the tailbone and influences our sense of survival. Matthew 6:33 - “Seek first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”

BELLY CHAKRA: Orange is a hot color, full of vital energy, joy and passion. The Sacral or Belly Chakra is located in front of the lower abdomen in the pelvis area. Nehemiah 8:10 - “The joy of the Lord is my strength.”

SOLAR PLEXUS CHAKRA: Sunshine Yellow lifts our spirit and gives us hope and a sense of ease and lightness. The Personal Power or Solar Plexus Chakra is above the navel in the area of the diaphragm. Philippians 4:13 - “I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me.”

HEART CHAKRA: Green brings balance, peace and tranquility into our lives. The Heart Chakra is at the center of the chest and is directly connected to your ability to give and receive love. Matthew 22:37-39 - “You shall love God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength and you shall love your neighbor as yourself.”

THROAT CHAKRA: Sky Blue or Turquoise is the color of creativity and self-expression. The Throat Chakra is located in front of the throat. John 8:32 - “You shall know the Truth and the Truth shall make you free.”

BROW CHAKRA: Indigo Blue is the color of universal healing. The Intuitive or Brow Chakra, also called The Third Eye, is at the center of the forehead. This is where we receive divine inspiration. Proverbs 3: 5-6 - “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”

CROWN CHAKRA: Violet is the color of cosmic awareness. The Crown Chakra is located at the top of the scull. John 10:30 - “I and my Father are One.”

Regardless of your beliefs, whether from the east or west, or a combination of both, may you awaken to this ancient Chakra system of balance and harmony within your own being so that you may truly experience living whole, healthy and fully alive.