Chakra balancing is based on the ancient Indian belief in a series of seven chakras, or energy centers. Chakra is the Sanskrit word for wheel. These energy centers are located at specific points between the base of the spine and the top of the skull. Each chakra relates to particular organs of the body, ailment, colour, element, and emotion.

Base/root chakra (muladhara). The first chakra, located at the base of the spine, is linked with basic survival and with the adrenal glands. It is associated with the colour red and the earth element.

Second chakra (svadisthana). Thought to reside in the genital region, this chakra is linked with sexuality and with the reproductive system. It is associated with the colour orange and the water element.

Third chakra (manipura). Situated near the navel, this chakra is linked with the pancreas and the solar plexus. It is associated with the colour yellow, the fire element, and power in the world.

Heart chakra (cnahata). The fourth chakra, associated with the heart and the immune system, is believed to be the seat of love and compassion. It is associated with the colour green and the air element.

Throat chakra (visuddha). The fifth chakra, situated in the throat area, is associated with the thyroid gland, the colour blue, and communication.

Brow/forehead chakra (ajna). The sixth chakra, also known as the "Third Eye," is said to reside in the forehead. It is associated with hormone production, the colour indigo, and intuition.

Crown chakra (saha srara). The seventh chakra, located at the top of the skull, is associated with elevated spiritual consciousness, the pineal gland, and the colour violet.

Chakra balancing is believed to promote health by maximizing the flow of energy in the body, much as a tune-up enables a car to operate at peak efficiency. Various approaches may be used to "balance" the chakras. The method I use is placing crystals on specific chakras and placing my hands over two at either end of their spectrum.