It is well known to many of us by now that the “human energy field” is comprised of seven major energy centers or chakras that are located along the cerebral-spinal axis. Each of these centers acts as a substation or transformer of the universal energy or prana that flows through the medulla at the base of the skull. As the prana descends through the five lower chakras it is transformed or modified from its pure state. If the lower chakras are clear and free of negative impressions (trauma, suppression, etc.) then the prana is free to ascend back to the upper chakras leading to higher states of consciousness. 

            If the lower chakras are blocked, however, then the prana is blocked from ascending and these energetic blockages begin to manifest as “dis-ease” on mental, emotional and physical levels. In other words, if we have blockages in any of the chakras it means we have broken our “attune”-ment with universal life force energy on a subtle, or not so subtle, level. Since the chakras are energy centers that respond to vibration, one of the ways that we can come back into alignment or attunement is through the conscious use of vibration, music and movement. 

            One of the tools that can help us in this journey is an understanding, through the use of Tantric astrology, of the relationship between the chakras and the planets. In Tantric astrology each of the chakras is associated with or is governed by a different planet. On an energetic level the Tantric astrological chart is a map of not only the inter-relationship of the planets but a map of the inter-relationship and condition of the chakras. In essence, we have our own inner solar system that guides the evolution of our consciousness through the various chakra centers. By understanding the planetary quality of each chakra we can use specific forms of music, vibration and movement to awaken and open each chakra and energize ourselves.

            The first chakra, located at the base of the spine, is associated with the planet Saturn or Shani in Sanskrit. Astrologically, Saturn represents our ability to ground ourselves so that we can materialize our dreams. Not enough Saturn in our lives leaves us ungrounded and unable to support ourselves. For some, too little Saturn makes it hard to create a sense of strong boundaries and center. Too much Saturn, however, and we can hold onto the material plane too much and resist change because of insecurity and fear. One of the ways to heal the first chakra is through connecting with the energies of the earth . Walking barefoot, doing yoga and drumming are all ways of tuning into the lower frequencies of the first chakra. Drumming, in particular, is an effective way of opening and awakening the first chakra. When we drum we often hold the drum between our legs which directly connects with the first chakra at the base of the spine. By tuning into the lower frequencies of the drum we not only energize ourselves but also become more present and in our bodies. Repeating Saturn’s mantra, “ Om Sham (pronounced Shum) Shanaye Namah,” on Saturn’s day (Saturday) also helps to bring in earth energy and help us ground and create a solid center. 

            The second chakra, governed by Jupiter or Guru in Sanskrit, is located in the pelvic or genital region of the body. The second chakra has to do with issues of creativity and sexuality and how we channel our fundamental life force energy and emotions. Astrologically, Jupiter is the planet that represents how we expand our consciousness. If we grew up in a family that suppressed emotions or sexuality then this would directly impact the second chakra and our sense of expansiveness. If we suppress one area of the second chakra, say sexuality, then all of the other areas;: our passion, creativity, expression of deep emotion, are affected as well. When the second chakra is open we are in touch with our primal life force, or kundalini energy. This is the fundamental electromagnetic force that animates our bodies and when freely expressed creates magnetism, passion, and true creativity in our lives.

            The key to awakening the energy of the second chakra, then, is to get our instinctual energy moving and open and expand the range of pelvic movement. One of the best ways I’ve found to accomplish this is through free form dancing or African dance forms. Several years ago I had a guest African dancer in my Astrology of the Chakras class and she explained that many of the movements of African dance are actually meant to facilitate the opening of the various chakras. Any movements that contract and then expand the area of the second chakra, or pelvis region, will help to loosen up the energy in that center. Also, using ethnic or world music that activates the instinctual or moving center, such as didgeridoo, belly dance or Turkish dervish music, are excellent. Repeating Jupiter’s mantra, “Om Brahm (pronounced Bhrum) Brihaspataye Namah,” on Jupiter’s day (Thursday) also helps to create expansion of creative life force and healing of sexual issues.

            The third chakra, located at the solar plexus or “hara” is the seat of our personal power. Mars, or Kuja in Sanskrit, the planet associated with personal will and Pluto, the planet associated with collective will, are the co-rulers of the third chakra. The issues of the third chakra have to do with power, control, trusting our gut level instincts, and our sense of personal empowerment. A blocked third chakra may manifest as a lack of being able to make decisions, not being to trust our own instincts, and feelings of being manipulated or victimized. An overactive third chakra may manifest as control issues, intimidation, rage, or violence. The key to healing the third chakra is to learn how to take power without harming others. It is also important to learn how to let go of the fear of being out of control.

            Music can be a particularly powerful medium for opening the third chakra as it is a non-verbal form of communication that by-passes the cognitive mind and directly impacts our deepest emotions. Many people who feel they have to control their emotions find themselves being moved to tears by evocative music. Finding music that moves you, whether emotionally or physically is a way of accessing the deeper emotions of anger, grief and rage that are often trapped in the third chakra. As these emotions are uncovered and allowed expression, the third chakra can then blossom and the energy that has been channeled into control can now be re-routed into more fulfilling forms of self expression and creativity. Repeating Mars’ mantra, “Om Kum (pronounced koom) Kujaya Namah,” on Mars’s day (Tuesday) also helps to strengthen the will and sense of personal power. (to be continued)

© 2009 - Shivaraj (James Jarvis, M.A.) is a Master Vedic & Western Astrologer, Career/ Dharma Coach and Transpersonal Counselor (M.A.) Through his international astrology, coaching and counseling practice, Shivaraj has helped thousands of people draw out and productively use their inherent gifts and talent. For those who want support in discovering, clarifying and manifesting their vision and life purpose, Shivaraj is available for Vedic Astrology , Career/Dharma Coaching and Transpersonal Counseling sessions by phone. For more info visit: www.lifeqwest.com, call toll-free (866) 851-2906, e-mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it