There are seven primary chakras in total, each corresponding to different aspects of physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
Most people know about the 7 main chakras, but ancient yogic texts reveal a far more complex energy system. The human body contains 114 chakras total – including 7 major, 21 minor, and 86 micro chakras. This complete network forms your subtle energy body.
The 7 Primary Chakras
The foundational chakra system consists of seven energy centers along the spine:
| Chakra | Location | Color |
|---|---|---|
| Root | Base of spine | Red |
| Sacral | Below navel | Orange |
| Solar Plexus | Upper abdomen | Yellow |
| Heart | Center of chest | Green |
| Throat | Throat | Blue |
| Third Eye | Between eyebrows | Indigo |
| Crown | Top of head | Violet |
Each primary chakra governs specific physical, emotional and spiritual functions. For example, the throat chakra influences communication while the heart chakra affects love and compassion.
Beyond the 7: The Full 114 Chakra System
Advanced yogic traditions describe a much more extensive network:
- 7 major chakras along the central energy channel
- 21 minor chakras in joints and organs
- 86 micro chakras throughout the body
According to Sri Amit Ray’s research, 108 chakras reside within the physical body while 6 exist in the auric field. These external chakras connect to higher consciousness and spatial awareness.
The Science Behind 72,000 Nadis
Chakras intersect with nadis – subtle energy channels that carry prana (life force). The body contains 72,000 nadis total:
- 36,000 in the left side of body
- 36,000 in the right side
These form a complex quantum network that regulates energy flow. Blocked nadis can lead to physical or emotional imbalances.
Chakra Petals and Sanskrit Letters
Each chakra contains energy petals with Sanskrit letters:
- Crown: 1,000 petals
- Third Eye: 2 petals
- Throat: 16 petals
- Heart: 12 petals
- Solar Plexus: 10 petals
- Sacral: 6 petals
- Root: 4 petals
As Yogapedia explains, these petals represent energy connections. When balanced, they clear stagnant energy.
Activating Your Full Chakra System
While beginners focus on the 7 main chakras, advanced practitioners work with the complete 114 chakra system through:
- Specific meditation techniques
- Pranayama breathing exercises
- Use of chakra stones and crystals
- Sound healing with mantras
- Yoga asanas targeting minor chakras
According to Deepak Chopra, balanced chakras create optimal health and spiritual awakening. The full 114 chakra system offers a roadmap to higher consciousness.
