If humans are energy, then we can ask ourselves where that energy begins and where it ends. We may assume that it starts and stops on the physical plane, but science proves there are unseen forces surrounding the physical form (sometimes referred to as the “subtle body”).

Humans actually emit electromagnetic fields, and their metabolic activity emits biophotons (weak light particles). It’s therefore not a stretch to say you feel someone’s energy or see their light aura—because it’s true. 

This chakra-aura system is perfect for organization freaks out there (raises hand) because it categorizes and colors energy. You’re able to visualize the system and comfortably understand how each category functions.

So what are chakras? Chakras are seven energetic points in the body that run up the spinal column (they also correspond to the endocrine system). The term “chakra” derives from the ancient Sanskrit words “wheel” or “cycle” because these centers spin like wheels. Think of them as bodily traffic circles: When traffic flows smoothly, energy flows smoothly; when drivers honk and cars get clogged, energy is trapped and engulfed in toxic fumes.  

Expert  C.W. Leadbeater put it this way: “[t]he centres are in operation in every one, although in the undeveloped person they are usually in comparatively sluggish motion, just forming the necessary vortex for the force, and no more. In a more evolved man they may be glowing and pulsating with living light, so that an enormously greater amount of energy passes through them, with the result that there are additional faculties and possibilities open to the man” (Leadbeater 5). (Let’s overlook the whole “man” thing for now. Leadbetter published his book in 1927 when men appropriated cultures and comfortably spoke on behalf of communities that weren’t their own.) 

Related to the chakras are their corresponding auras. These are subtle, colored energy fields surrounding living beings that reflect emotions and spiritual states. Experts say there’s no definite color for each chakra, which is true; however, there’s a dominant color for each one. 

The bottom line? When your seven chakras are aglow, you’re living your best life.