Part I Part II The Navel or Solar Plexus Chakra is located slightly above the navel. A great amount of energy is stored here. Physically this chakra governs the digestive and autonomic nervous systems, as well as the pancreas and the production of insulin. A healthy functioning navel chakra offers the energy necessary to achieve set goals, and to see things through to their conclusion. Spontaneity and the ability to successfully follow “gut instincts” come from this chakras’ energy. To be able to appropriately express a wide range of emotions indicates a healthy functioning navel chakra. Some indications of a blockage of energy in this chakra include: apathy, insecurity or a diminished sense of self. An overabundance of energy here results in arrogance, thoughtlessness, a need to control, and fits of rage. The Sacral Chakra is located a little above the sacrum and a fingers width below the navel. It governs the reproductive system, the kidneys and bladder, also the circulatory and lymphatic systems. Sexuality, creative energy, sensuality and joy in living are all aspects of this chakra. A person with a strongly functioning sacral chakra is characterized by their infectious enthusiasm and the profound affect thy have on those around them. An imbalance in the energy of the sacral chakra is indicated by: jealousy, persistent anxiety, diminished sex drive, addiction, feelings of guilt and aggression. The Root Chakra is located in the region of the coccyx at the base of the spinal column. It supplies energy to the pelvic region, intestines, skeleton, legs, feet, teeth and nails, blood formation and the sciatic nerve. Through this chakra our energy is connected to that of the earth. Trust, security and strength for living are all themes of this chakra. When the energy flows freely through the root chakra you are not easily thrown off by circumstances around you, you are secure in your existence in the world. Protection, abundance and prosperity are all elements of this chakra. Blockages in the energy of the root chakra are characterized by lassitude, apathy and a lack of trust in life. Reiki can be used to effectively remove blockages in the chakras and to increase or decrease the flow of energy as needed. Reiki is an intelligent energy with the ability to heal issues and ailments that we are conscious of, as well as long held unhealthy subconscious beliefs and traumas. Reiki works to clear you out on all levels, emotional, mental, physical and spiritual. As it does so, it makes room for new beginnings and possibilities to flow into your life. With Reiki the energy of the chakras can become balanced and unified. Originally Reiki was not used to directly affect the chakras but many practioners in the Western world today are successfully using it to address imbalances in the chakras. Reiki can be used in many more ways than benefiting the human energy system and physical body. All living things, animals and plants, as well as nonliving things, electronics, cars, computers and such, are all able function better after receiving Reiki. Some excellent resources on Reiki and the chakras are: The Handbook of Chakra Healing by Kalashatra Govinda, also The Everything Reiki Book by Phylameana Desy. Both of these books were used in my research for my past three entries. If you are interested in experiencing a Reiki session contact the Pittsburgh Center for Complementary Health and Healing at (412)242-4220.