Chakras in human body

There are three primary channels in which conscious creative energy circulates in the subtle body.They are  Sushumna (central nadi) , Ida and Pingala. They are arranged like the medical symbol Caduceus, a  straight centre( Sushumna)  flanked by  two channels (ida and pingala) that  crisscross over the centre.The each crossover points are centers called Chakras. Sushumna is the  seat of Kundalini(Jeevathma). Chakras are described in Yoga kundalini Upanishad , related to Krishna Yajur Veda.

There are seven major Chakras. Chakras are visualized as lotus flowers of different number of petals.

1.Muladhara      – Root Chakra              -  placed in Spine Base         – 4 petals

2. Swadisthana   - Sacral Chakra            -  placed in Genitals              -  6 petals

3. Manipuraka    – Solar Plexus chakra – placed in Navel                   – 10 petals

4. Anahata           – Heart Chakra             - Placed in Chest                    - 12 petals

5. Vishudhi          - Throat Chakra            - Placed in Throat pit              - 16 petals

6. Ajna                 - Third eye Chakra         - Placed in Eyebrow centre    - 2 petals

7.Sahasrara           - Crown Chakra             -Seat of Self Realization         - 1000 petals

Sahasrara Chakra is the junction point between individual and devine.

The role of yogic practice to rouse the sleeping Kundalini , allowing it to rise through nadis and chakras  and finally to merge with Absolute in Sahasrara chakra.

References:-

http://www.veda.harekrsna.cz/encyclopedia/ayurvedantacakras.htm

http://www.nityananda.us/teaching3.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chakra