Chakra meditation is a widely-used method of finding peace within oneself. Before performing chakra meditation, however, you must be able to identify what a "chakra" is.

Throughout the human body are vital points of energy used both consciously and unconsciously. These energy points greatly influence the experiences that form our lives. The term "chakra" is used to define these critical points.

There are several chakras found throughout the body. Each chakra influences the area in which it is located, and each has a distinctive property.

A chakra located at the base of the spine is the Root Chakra. This chakra is known to have an effect on the health, structure and safety of a person. This particular chakra, also known as the coccyx, and traditionally known as muladhara, is associated with how one's body links to the material world. It is also related to a red-colored circle surrounded by four golden petals.

The Naval Chakra or svadisthana, a fundamental point located in the lower abdomen, is associated with the feelings of love, passion, sexuality as well as pleasure. People experiencing positive feelings would send feedback to this chakra, which is associated with the orange color.

Just above the navel and below the chest is the Solar Plexus Chakra. This vital point influences one's force and willpower. This is the energy point from which our senses of authority, discipline and self-control converge. The colour yellow is linked to this chakra.

The Heart Chakra or the anahata can be found at the middle of one's chest. Love and understanding are the focus of this chakra, as well as the feelings resulting from these sensations. The color green is related to the Heart Chakra.

A critical point located in the throat area is called the vishuddha, or Throat Chakra. This chakra is linked to communication and associated with a sky blue colour.

The Brow Chakra or the anja is a vital point located on the forehead, just above the eyes. This chakra is associated with our sensitivity outside the physical sphere and is known to the Buddhists as the region of the "Third Eye." This clairvoyance-related focus point is associated with the color indigo as well.

The final chakra is a central point on top of the head known as the Crown Chakra, or sahasrara. It's not surprising to learn that this chakra is related to the mind and spirit, and focuses on one's consciousness and the items relating to the High Self. The Crown Chakra is associated with the colour violet.

Practicing the Chakra meditation can stimulate your vital energy points which can lead to side effects. Too much mental energy may not be wise to people who have less physical activity. Chakra meditation should be done with appropriate guidance from an expert. Otherwise possible personality problems may occur due to improper chakra meditation practice.