Understanding the Chakras: A Balanced Approach to Energy Healing & Yoga
For nearly a decade, I have been teaching the chakra system in public yoga classes and in-depth teacher training programs. Again and again, I’ve witnessed how powerful this framework can be — not only spiritually, but physiologically and emotionally.
Over the coming weeks, I’ll be sharing a series of blog posts exploring each of the seven chakras, along with specific yoga poses, breathwork techniques, and self-reflection practices to help you feel more balanced, grounded, and aligned. For me, this past year embodied that energy fully.
But first — let’s begin with what a chakra actually is.
What Are the Chakras?
The word chakra comes from Sanskrit and translates to “wheel.” In yogic philosophy, chakras are spinning energy centers located along the spine, from the base of the pelvis to the crown of the head.
Each chakra corresponds to:
• Specific nerve plexuses and endocrine glands
• Emotional patterns and psychological themes
• Physical regions of the body
• Spiritual qualities and states of consciousness
From a modern perspective, you can think of the chakra system as an ancient map of the nervous system and subtle energy body.
From a mystical perspective, chakras are portals of life force energy — known as prana — that influence how we experience safety, creativity, power, love, expression, intuition, and connection.
When these energy centers are balanced, we tend to feel regulated, clear, empowered, and at ease. When they are blocked, depleted, or overactive, we may experience anxiety, fatigue, emotional reactivity, physical tension, or feeling “out of alignment.”
The Science & Subtle Energy: Ida, Pingala & the Central Channel
In yogic anatomy, energy flows through subtle pathways called nadis.
The two primary nadis are:
• Ida Nadi (left side of the spine): lunar, cooling, parasympathetic, intuitive energy • Pingala Nadi (right side): solar, activating, sympathetic, outward-focused energy
These two channels weave upward along the spine, intersecting at each chakra. When Ida and Pingala are balanced, energy can move through the central channel — the Sushumna Nadi — which is associated with equilibrium, clarity, and expanded awareness.
From a scientific lens, this mirrors the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems — our stress response and our rest-and-digest state.
When we use yoga for chakra balancing, breathwork for nervous system regulation, and mindful movement, we are not just working symbolically — we are influencing vagal tone, breath capacity, posture, circulation, and stress chemistry.
This is where mysticism meets physiology.
Why Chakra Balancing Matters
Chakra work is not about “fixing” yourself. It’s about awareness and alignment.
Through intentional yoga poses, chakra meditation, pranayama (breathwork), Reiki energy healing, and guided self-inquiry, we can:
• Improve emotional regulation
• Release stored tension in the body
• Support endocrine and nervous system balance
• Cultivate confidence and resilience
• Deepen spiritual connection
Each chakra offers insight into a different aspect of your life — from safety and belonging to love and purpose.
In this blog series, you’ll explore:
• Signs of chakra imbalance (excess vs. depletion)
• Yoga poses for balancing each chakra
• Breathwork practices to regulate energy
• Journal prompts for self-reflection and growth
Whether you approach this from a spiritual, therapeutic, or curiosity-driven place, the chakra system offers a powerful lens for holistic wellness.
Ready to Experience Chakra Balancing in Real Time?
If reading about the chakras resonates with you, I invite you to experience this work in your body.
✨ Join one of my public yoga classes, where we integrate chakra-based yoga flows, grounding breathwork, and guided meditation.
✨ Book a private one-on-one chakra balancing session, where we can incorporate personalized yoga therapy, Reiki, sound healing, and nervous system regulation techniques tailored to your unique needs.
My intention through The Juicy Life Wellness Coaching is to help you feel more balanced, empowered, and aligned — not just on your mat, but in your everyday life.
Balance is not a destination.
It’s a practice.
And I would be honored to guide you.
With love,
Kimberly Zimmerman
Master Level Reiki Practitioner
500-Hour Yoga Instructor
Sound Healer
The Juicy Life Wellness Coaching
Discover each of the four chakras in detail through the links below: