Music has a transformative power, serving as a universal language that resonates deeply within us all. As Bono said, “I think music in itself is healing… everyone loves music.” Indeed, through music, we tap into our harmonic nature and awaken to higher consciousness.

Join me as we play an insightful game of musical chakras and journey along the vibrant lanes of the Chakra Highway, where music becomes a conduit for spiritual growth and self-discovery.

What is a Chakra?

“Chakras,” derived from the Sanskrit word for “wheel,” are energetic vortexes within our body. Aligned with key endocrine glands, they represent different aspects of consciousness. Picture them as colorful pinwheels: when balanced, they spin, promoting healthy energy flow; when blocked, they remain dormant.

In this exploration, we’ll focus on the seven primary chakras, each mirroring the colors of the rainbow and the symphony of songs that reflect their teachings.

The Colorful Chakra Highway

Think of the seven chakras as a two-lane rainbow highway, stretching from the base of the spine to the crown of the head—a path where manifestation and liberation intertwine, guiding us towards wholeness.

The South-headed highway, or Body Highway, is about manifestation and bringing the spiritual “down” into the physical.  Its goal is to aid us in immersing ourselves in physicality, enhancing our physical lives and those around us. 

Spirit Highway, the north-headed highway, is about liberation and “higher” consciousness. Its purpose is to expand our minds and increase our awareness of the spiritual.

The south-bound manifesting lanes have real-world applicability, while the north-bound liberating lanes help us reconnect to the Divinity within while still in physical form.  Traveling in both directions is necessary for peace, success, and happiness. 

Harmonic Teachings

As we unravel the melodies that resonate with each chakra, we’ll discover the harmonious blend of spirituality and physicality, unveiling a spectrum of hues that breathe life into the profound teachings of the chakra system.

Root Chakra

Situated at the base of our spine, this red energy center anchors our connection to the physical world. It helps create a supportive foundation in life full of stability and security. Here are some ways that can help:

• Manage finances wisely by budgeting and investing in the future.

• Prioritize physical well-being through proper exercise, a nutritious diet, and sufficient sleep.

• Invest in professional growth through continuing education and development of skills.

• Create a nurturing home environment that is decluttered and organized so we can relax and recharge away from the hustle and bustle.

• Cultivate healthy relationships with family, friends, and community, nurturing meaningful connections and resolving conflicts constructively.

By focusing on these practical areas of life, we can create a solid foundation in the physical world that supports our overall well-being and enables us to thrive in pursuit of our goals and aspirations.

Manifesting Element – Survival

Here, we’re focused on surviving the challenges of day-to-day living, including things like caring for the innocent and vulnerable, commuting to and from work or school, paying bills, managing a household, and keeping “all the balls in the air.”  This element teaches us to establish our independence and not give up, even when times are tough.  It also encourages us to take pride in ourselves while still being humble to ask for help when needed.  Listen to Destiny Child’s “Survivor” for some powerful encouragement.

Liberating Element – Grounding

Grounding, which is being appreciative of nature and her energy, sends our energy to the Earth to create a symbiotic connection.  It keeps us humble, increases clarity, reduces worry, encourages decisiveness, protects our bodies from stress overload, and enables us to live in the present moment and a state of grace. Without it, we can become unstable, “fly off the handle,” act impulsively, or daydream constantly.

Most of us unintentionally ground ourselves by doing things such as washing our hands, taking showers, swimming, walking barefoot (especially outside), and just being in nature. But, to get the most benefit from grounding, do it with intention, such as hugging a tree or imagining roots extending from the feet into the ground as you sit or stand.  For a boost of earthy inspiration, listen to Jason Mraz’s “Back to the Earth” to harmonize and reconnect with her.

Sacral Chakra

Situated in our lower abdomen, this orange energy vortex is responsible for movement, and thus, our life changes.  We’re usually compelled to change when trying to free ourselves of pain or process emotions. As Anodea Judith says, “Pleasure and emotions are the root of desire.  Through desire, we create movement.  Through movement, we create change.  Consciousness thrives on change.  This is the essence and function of the second chakra.”¹

Remember, life is about movement; if we’re not moving, we stagnate.  The following are a few ways to get moving and open up the second chakra:

• Get a massage to release tension and blocked energy in the sacral area, promoting relaxation and enhancing energy flow throughout the body.

• Drink lots of water (preferably eight glasses!) to help keep the energy centers (all of them) hydrated and functioning optimally.

• Swim, shower, and bathe to cleanse and rejuvenate the sacral energy center, visualizing the water, washing away any stagnant energy, and revitalizing creative flow.

• Dance, especially with the hips, Shakira-style, to stimulate and activate the energy in the pelvic region and awaken sensual and creative energy.

• Form intimate connections through hugging, kissing, and consensual sex to promote feelings of pleasure, connection, and emotional well-being.

• Release pent-up emotions and clear energetic blockages through crying, yelling, or non-harmful physical movements to restore balance.

By incorporating these activities into our life, we can promote the healthy functioning of the sacral chakra, enhance our creativity and emotional well-being, and embrace the flow of change and transformation in our life.

Manifesting Element – Pleasure

When it feels good, we naturally want more of it.  The pleasure element reminds us to enjoy ourselves but not to overdo it lest we miss the point of this chakra.  Pleasure encourages us to expand while demanding that we surrender to something outside ourselves.  We are then tasked with making choices that align with what makes us feel good so that we become open to connecting with others and creating the movement in life that produces change.  Listen to Marvin Gaye’s “Sexual Healing” to get in the mood to move.

Liberating Element – Emotional Regulation

Feelings are “our access to enlightenment.” Yet, when we deny our feelings and hide from our emotions, we invite low-level energies to take over and cloud our judgment, eventually leading to trouble. Timothy Leary’s famous phrase, “Turn on, tune in, and drop out,” is befitting for emotional regulation because it teaches us to go within, express our feelings, and then detach and let them go. Easier said than done?  Perhaps, but listen to Johnny Cash’s “Hurt” for strength.

Solar Plexus Chakra

In this yellow energy center, situated in the stomach area (above our navel), lies our strength and the will to act.  Its purpose is to help us tap into our inner power and “just do it” despite fears, doubts, and obstacles.  It compels us to stand up, fight for ourselves, and keep going…no matter what.  Self-empowerment is the keyword here, and some ways to increase that are:

• Staying positive and goal-oriented to boost confidence and reinforce our sense of personal power.

• Keeping a confidence journal to document how/when we step outside our comfort zone to track our progress, reflecting on moments when we’ve taken risks, overcome obstacles, or asserted ourselves, and acknowledge our courage and growth.

• Celebrating all wins – big and small to fuel our self-belief and encourage continued growth.

• Embracing lifelong learning as a means of expanding our knowledge, skills, and understanding of the world, engaging in continuous education through reading, attending workshops, taking courses, or seeking new experiences.

• Prioritizing self-care as often as possible to nurture our sense of self-worth.

Incorporating these practices into our daily life can strengthen the solar plexus chakra, boost our confidence, and cultivate greater empowerment and resilience in navigating life’s challenges.

Remember, our power is precious, and when we (temporarily) give it to others, is it any wonder why we get “sick to our stomachs?” Pay attention to the tummy area for signs of a power imbalance.

Manifesting Element – Action

Baby steps are still steps that ought to be celebrated because the ability to take action is paramount to creating the life we desire.  When it comes to taking action, our mindset is best served by imagining ourselves as the mole from the arcade favorite “Whack-A-Mole” game, which keeps getting up despite being knocked down.  As the saying goes, “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.”  We’ll never win unless we try.  Listen to Brian McKnight’s “Win” for heartfelt inspiration.

Liberating Element – Willpower

Maintaining determination can be challenging, but it is also what propels us toward action. Listen to Rachel Platten’s “Fight Song” for the unwavering power to keep going.

Heart Chakra

Situated in the chest cavity, this green energy vortex is responsible for balance in life. While it’s no surprise that the heart chakra is all about love, the balance I speak of comes with having compassion for yourself and others while also being able to balance your needs with the needs of others.  Some ways to stay balanced are:

• Maintain boundaries and say no when necessary.

• Practice gratitude daily.

• Support our support system, and don’t hesitate to seek help when needed.

• Simplify commitments and ensure our actions align with our heart’s desires.

• Cultivate an open mind, embracing diversity and acceptance.

By incorporating these practices into our life, we can nurture and balance the heart chakra, fostering love, compassion, and harmony within ourselves and our relationships with others.

Manifesting Element – Balance

If we’re not balanced, we fall. Listen to Depeche Mode’s “Get the Balance Right” to, well…get the balance right. 😊

Liberating Element – Compassion

Is being kind and having unconditional love for all a tall order?  Not for John, Paul, George, and Ringo.  Listen to the Beatles’ “All You Need is Love” for the best advice ever.

Throat Chakra

Situated in the throat, this blue energy center is responsible for all forms of self-expression.  Its goal is effective communication through speaking our truth and being honest with ourselves (and others) about our thoughts and feelings.  Here are some ways we can express ourselves:

• Journaling, creative writing, or blogging can be powerful ways to express our thoughts, emotions, and ideas.

• Singing (or playing a musical instrument) allows us to express ourselves through melody, rhythm, and harmony, letting our voice (or instrument) be the vehicle for our expression.

• Dancing allows our body to express itself freely and authentically through movement.

• Visual arts such as painting, sculpting, or sewing provide a creative outlet for self-expression in tangible form.

• Engage in creative activities such as cooking, acting, or stand-up comedy to entertain and inspire others.

• Share knowledge and experiences with others through teaching or mentoring.

By exploring these various forms of self-expression, we can nurture and balance the throat chakra, allowing our authentic voice to be heard and fostering effective communication with ourselves and others.

Manifesting Element – Communication

Listen to Aidan Bissett’s “Communication” to understand the all-too-important rollercoaster of effective communication…especially in relationships.

Liberating element – Creativity

To embrace our creativity, originality, and uniqueness, listen to Salt-N-Pepa’s “Expression” for some catchy inspiration.

Third Eye Chakra

Situated between the brows, this indigo-colored energy vortex is our intuitive guide and portal to higher wisdom.  Becoming more intuitive involves tapping into our inner wisdom and trusting our instincts. Here are some practical ways to develop and strengthen our intuition:

• Practice mindfulness or meditation to quieten the chattery thoughts of our mind.

• Trust our gut feelings or instincts, even if they don’t seem logical at first.

• Use visualization techniques to imagine possible outcomes or solutions to problems.

• Pay attention to our dreams, keeping a dream journal by our bedside and writing down any insights or symbols that stand out to us.

• Follow our passions and engage in activities that bring us joy.

Remember that developing intuition is a journey that takes time and practice. Trust and be patient with ourselves as we explore and strengthen this innate, clairvoyant ability.

Manifesting Element – Imagination

To understand the power of visualization to create change, listen to the Wonka favorite and Gene Wilder’s rendition of “Pure Imagination” for some candy-coated ingenuity.

Liberating Element – Intuition

Embracing the idea of going “within” is essential to relying on our higher faculties for assistance and being in tune with our higher self. Listen to Gary Wright’s “Dream Weaver” for the astral trip of a lifetime.

Crown Chakra

Situated at the top of the head, this violet energy center controls thought processes and connects us to universal consciousness, higher wisdom, and the Divinity within. Here are some ways to balance and nurture the crown chakra:

• Engage in regular meditation practices to enhance spiritual awareness, focusing on breath awareness, mantra repetition, or visualization techniques to deepen the experience.

• Cultivate present-moment awareness in our daily life by practicing mindfulness and paying attention to our thoughts, feelings, and sensations without judgment. 

• Explore spiritual teachings, sacred texts, or philosophical literature to expand our understanding of universal concepts and principles.

• Spend time in nature to connect with the natural world’s beauty, harmony, and wisdom.

• Practice kindness, compassion, and service to others to express the Divine within ourselves.

Integrating these practical tips into our life allows us to balance and nourish the crown chakra, leading to greater spiritual awareness, connection to higher wisdom, and alignment with the Divine within and all around us.

Manifesting Element – Self-Knowledge

We’re all unique and have talents no one else does, so it’s vital we know our individuality and place in the bigger scheme of things, especially in response to metaphysical questions like “Who am I?” and “What is my purpose?” Listen to Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way” to understand just how special we all are.

Liberating Element – Understanding

Mastery in the material realm and our connection to the spiritual world depend on our understanding of energy.  Listen to Willie Nelson’s “Energy Follows Thought” to remember this blissful fact.

The Bottom Line

In our journey through physical existence, we must embrace independence, take action, speak our truth, and remain grounded in our intuition. Simultaneously, understanding the spiritual realm requires compassion, self-awareness, and an appreciation of the interconnectedness of all things. Music is a powerful catalyst for our awakening journey, offering us wisdom, inspiration, and guidance.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this harmonious exploration of spiritual growth and self-discovery through music!

1. Judith, Anodea. Wheels of Life: A User’s Guide to the Chakra System. Llewellyn Publications, 1999. ↩︎