Cakra Basti (Oil Irrigation on Cakra Area)

The cakras are energy centers in the body that govern the elements, sense organs, and organs of action. These centers correspond to energy fields in the physical body, particularly the nerve plexuses, which govern the gross elements and sustain life. In their heightened or spiritual function, the cakras awaken the sensory and motor faculties, enabling the experience of higher states of consciousness.

Physical diseases often stem from imbalances in the outer cakras, which function through various nerve plexuses and endocrine glands. Psychological disorders, on the other hand, are linked to imbalances in the inner cakra functions.

Cakra Basti is performed based on the decision of an Ayurvedic doctor or chief therapist and is applied to the specific area most in need. There are five primary cakra areas commonly treated:

• Muladhara Cakra (Root or Coccygeal Centre)
• Svadhisthana Cakra (Pubic Centre)
• Manipura Cakra (Navel or Solar Plexus Centre)
• Anahata Cakra (Heart Centre)
• Vishuddha Cakra (Throat Centre)

The treatment involves shaping a ring out of flour dough and placing it around the designated cakra area. This is secured to form a dam-like structure, into which warm, medicated oil is slowly poured. The oil is retained in the area for a specified time, providing nourishment to the cakra, supporting its proper function, clearing blockages, and helping heal or balance the related physical or emotional conditions. The therapy concludes with a gentle massage of the energy points.