As part of a larger spiritual framework, the chakra system spread through various Indian philosophies and eventually to the West, particularly during the 20th century, as interest in Eastern spirituality grew.

In many wellness traditions, the heart chakra is associated with love, compassion, emotional balance, empathy, forgiveness, and connection. It is traditionally located in the center of the chest and is symbolically linked to the color green, the element of air, and the relationship between the physical and emotional self. Within holistic wellness practices, the heart chakra is believed to influence a person’s ability to give and receive love, maintain healthy relationships, experience inner peace, and cultivate emotional healing. Practitioners often view an “open” or balanced heart chakra as connected to feelings of harmony, kindness, gratitude, and emotional resilience.

Alternative and holistic medicine practices frequently incorporate the heart chakra into healing processes, mindfulness practices, and energy-based therapies. Heart chakra practices are generally intended to support emotional well-being, stress reduction, spiritual growth, and self-awareness rather than replace medical treatment. However, many people who have lived with anxiety and depression have experienced great relief after working with the heart chakra in the following modalities: somatic therapy, somatic singing, hypnotherapy, energy work and guided meditation. Tapping into the heart chakra and listening to our body's innate wisdom allows us to identify the root cause of anxiety and depression, not just the surface symptoms...