How to Eat to Support the Chakras

For hundreds of years, many have recognized their Chakra system and utilized it to center their bodies. This seven-part system in the body can be traced back in Hindu texts to as early as 500 BC. The Sanskrit word “Chakra” can be translated to “wheel” or “circle” and refers to spinning energy wheels, or Chakras located within the body. As yoga and other wellness practices gain popularity, more people are exploring the Chakra system and how it is connected to our health.

There are seven central Chakras, or energy centers, along the spine. Traditionally, the imbalance of one of these Chakras is thought to be the cause of illness and disease. For example, if someone had lost their voice or had a chronic cough, they were thought to have an imbalanced Throat Chakra. Each of the seven Chakras is associated with specific body parts and ailments. 

In order to find relief from illness and ailments, traditional healers use different tools to rebalance the Chakras and realign the energy centers in the body. There are many different tools that can be used to balance the Chakras including yoga poses, herbs, mantras, colors and foods. 

Just as each Chakra is associated with specific ailments, each Chakra is also associated with specific foods to help promote balance in that area of the body. Incorporating these foods into your diet is a great way to rebalance your energy and support your Chakra system. 

Root Chakra

The Root Chakra is all about being grounded and is located at the base of the spine. This Chakra is linked to the health of our reproductive organs. Traditional foods to support this energy center include root vegetables like potatoes and carrots, as well as proteins like meat or lentils. 

Sacral Chakra

Located just above the Root Chakra, the Sacral Chakra is in charge of creativity and sensuality. Adrenal health is often linked to this Chakra. Foods that support this energy center include nuts and sweet fruits like peaches and melons.

Solar Plexus

The Solar Plexus is tied to our inner drive and sits behind the navel. It is closely linked to our digestive health. Foods high in fiber like seeds and whole grains are traditionally used to balance this energy center.

Heart Chakra

As you may have guessed, the Heart Chakra is located just behind the heart and is closely tied to the health of both the heart and the lungs. It is involved in feelings of love, compassion and empathy. Leafy greens, microgreens and sprouts are supportive of this energy center.

Throat Chakra

The Throat Chakra is located in the throat and rules over our communication and expression. Tied to the health of our thyroid, mouth and ears, this energy center is supported by herbal teas as well as sea vegetables like seaweed.

Third Eye Chakra

The Third Eye Chakra is connected to our intuition. The Third Eye is located in the mid-brow between both eyes. This Chakra is associated with brain and eye health. Dark berries, purple cabbage and grapes are all used to support the balance of this energy center.

Crown Chakra

Unlike the other six, the Crown Chakra is not located in the physical body. Instead, it is located right above the head. The Crown Chakra rules our awareness and connection to our surroundings. This energy center is associated with mental health as well as the pituitary gland. Traditionally, this Chakra is balanced by detox practices, fasting and water. 

Using the Chakra System as a guide can be a great tool to make sure you are eating for balanced health and energy. Each one of these energy centers requires different food groups, but we must balance the system as a whole to reach optimal health. By incorporating all of these traditional foods, you can provide your body with a wide array of both macro-and micronutrients. 

About the Author

Megan Wiley is a nutritional therapy practitioner and certified yoga teacher. She founded Wiley Wellness to empower people to take charge of their health through a full mind-body approach. By addressing the root cause of symptoms, she helps clients reclaim their physical and energetic health. For more nutrition and mindset resources, find her on Instagram @wileywellness.