How to Know Your Chakras are Blocked

Having balanced Chakras is like having a stream that flows freely and smoothly in your body

I recently did a Reiki session for a close friend of mine. Afterward, as I was explaining what I saw during the session, she asked me a fantastic question that I realized I had never fully addressed before: "How do you know your chakras are blocked?"

It got me thinking, so I put together a list of the personal signs that tell me my own chakras need some work.

1. I’m incredibly tired.

I know this sounds vague, and there are countless reasons to be tired that have absolutely nothing to do with energy centers. But for me, this is a heavy, consistent lethargy that I can’t seem to shake, even after caffeine, a good meal, or plenty of sleep. When sacred light is flowing freely through me, I feel refreshed, joyful, and at peace. While everyone's experience is different, this deep fatigue is always my first clue.

2. I feel panicky.

This is usually a Root Chakra issue. If I find myself feeling more anxious or panicky than usual, I know I need to do a grounding and shielding meditation, or simply head outside to walk barefoot on the grass for a bit. I need to physically and mentally let my body know that I am safe, present, and deeply connected to Mother Earth.

3. I’m bloated.

I’ve written about this in my Sacral Chakra blog post, but because the Sacral Chakra is ruled by water and emotions, bloating is often a sign that I’ve been holding my feelings in. I notice this is why my luteal phase can be so difficult; physical bloating and emotional blockages go hand in hand for me during this time of the month.

4. I feel depressed.

This directly points to my Solar Plexus. The Solar Plexus is like the sun—it shines brightly and confidently, presenting our true selves to the world. Its mantra is "I do." When my Solar Plexus is blocked, I experience the exact opposite: I don't want to do anything. I just want to lay in bed all day with zero energy, feeling down on myself.

5. I’m holding grudges.

This brings us to the Heart Chakra. If I notice I'm angrier than usual or holding onto grudges I would normally let go, it is a 100% indicator that my heart space needs some TLC. This is also tied to the Throat Chakra—if I find I'm not laughing as much, I know both areas are struggling.

6. I’m not expressing my truth.

If I’m biting my tongue or keeping quiet when I know I should speak up, that is a classic sign my Throat Chakra is blocked. In my Reiki practice, especially when working with women, this is the energy center that seems to need the most support.

7. I’m overthinking and overanalyzing.

Moving up to the Third Eye, if I’m experiencing headaches and finding myself way too "in my head," it's a clear sign that this intuitive center is becoming congested.

8. I feel disconnected.

I am not religious, but if I don't feel connected to something higher than myself—whether you call it God, Source, or simply the Universe—I know my Crown Chakra is becoming clouded. When this happens, it's time to clear the energy.

Finding Your Own Signs

Keep in mind, this is entirely based on my own personal experience. Everyone is different, and sometimes these symptoms are just the result of a stressful week, a poor night's sleep, or needing a good meal! But as you grow in your own spiritual development, you will start to recognize your own unique "warning lights" telling you when your chakras need a little extra love and alignment.