Lichen sclerosus and the chakras (part 1)

Having written a book on chakras, I’d be remiss if I didn’t address the energy elephant in the room: the chakras involved in LS.

If you think the energy centres of the body are woo-woo, I’m fine with that. I’ve been talking publicly about my vulva for 24 days now. Feeling exposed due to my alternative beliefs is the least of my concerns. 😉

So, which chakras are involved in lichen sclerosus?

From my book Householder Yogini: Practices & Journaling Exercises for Women who Live at the intersection of Spirituality & Family: 

Chakra, Sanskrit for wheel.

When we speak of the chakra system, we most often refer to the seven main energy centres in the body, starting from the base of the spine and ending at the crown of the head. These spinning wheels are responsible for the flow of prana, life force energy, through a system of nadis or channels in the body.

Known for thousands of years, the chakra system is most often associated with the spiritual practices of yoga or the healing practice of reiki. When the channels become blocked, dis-ease of the mind and body can follow. When the channels are clear and open, energy flows freely, leading to increased health and higher states of awareness.

The ancient practices of yoga have married with the western practices of psychology as many practitioners make connections between the physical, emotional and spiritual bodies of the individual. 

As I contemplated the areas of my body affected by LS, I considered the chakras involved. 

The first is the root chakra (energy centre at the base of the torso: vulva and anus). More from Householder Yogini: 

Root chakra emotional issues, like fear or feeling unsupported, can be carried through from childhood, a less than ideal relationship or a poor work environment (to name a few). These conditions chip away at our foundation over time. They shape our perspective and form our belief patterns. 

After years of using myriad techniques to manage pain from a series of spinal injuries, my fear response was on high alert. I often needed to console my mind and fear response. When panic arose over pain or conditions that may increase pain, I often reassured myself, “You are okay. You are safe. It’s all good. Relax.” This dialogue assisted me in befriending my response and patterning rather than creating increased struggle and resistance in my body and mind. 

If the body is trapped in a fear or pain response, we need to investigate the emotions that may be repressed, redirected and mistakenly expressed through the physical body. If pain or conditions of the legs, feet, knees and bottom of the torso (hemorrhoids, constipation) exist, ask yourself what emotions you are feeling. 

Am I afraid of something? Is there a lack of support (material, emotional or otherwise) in my life? What are my needs that aren’t being met? 

Root chakra is responsible for a strong foundation, safety, security and support. Its element is earth. Personally, I noticed fear from my childhood trapped in my nervous system’s response to life. I needed to both address that fear hypersensitivity while also using it to create a kinder, gentler environment for myself. I use myriad techniques:

1. Meditation/ qigong
2. Time in nature, whether a walk with a friend or sitting in the forest
3. Uplifting/relaxing music
4. Movement such as cycling or pilates
5. Laughter, gratitude and happiness as a daily practice (and some days that practice is challenging!)
6. Letting go of what isn’t important or worth struggling over
7. Herbs such as passionflower or supplements such as L-Theanine

When I find my nervous system overwhelmed, I simplify my environment. One thing at a time. Sometimes that one thing is a deep breath.

Root chakra affirmations:

I am safe

I am supported

All my needs are met

If they’re not, then perhaps it’s time to address these root chakra issues in your life.

I’ll be back tomorrow with the second half of this energy elephant.

If you’d like to know more about Householder Yogini, you can find the paperback on Amazon or download a digital version here.

Much love,

Stephanie

Read the next post in the series: Lichen sclerosus and the chakras (part 2)

Pick up a copy of the newest published book on lichen sclerosus.

**This blog is meant to inform, not diagnose or treat specific health conditions. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis and treatment. Always consult your doctor or health care practitioner.