VisitScotland has revealed a new chakras map of Scotland linking holidays with body energy points.
With the COVID-19 pandemic sparking a renewed interest in wellness tourism, the national tourism organisation created this special guide to inspire visitors.
The chakras are believed to be portals through which energy is transferred between the physical body and the universe. The word chakra translates from Sanskrit as ‘wheel’ and when the chakras are balanced and ‘spinning’ that healing and growth are more easily achieved.
The map shows how experiences across Scotland could balance the seven major chakras – which are thought to promote physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing.
VisitScotland launched the new map after research revealed that almost a quarter (24 per cent) of people from the UK and Ireland took a holiday in Scotland last year to specifically protect their mental health from the impact of COVID-19.
The chakras have been linked to various experiences depending on which area of the body it deals with:
The chakras have been linked to various experiences depending on which area of the body it deals with:
- Stargazing holidays have been suggested for balancing the crown chakra, which is located at the head and serves as a connection to the universe, and promotes enlightenment and wisdom
- The third eye chakra is linked to perception and spiritual communication so trying a supernatural Scottish experience could help open it up.
- Cultural attractions that highlight Scotland’s languages such as Gaelic and Doric and its songs could connect with the throat chakra which influences communication and expression.
- The heart chakra is the centre of compassion, empathy and love, making a clear link to a romantic break away with a loved one to ensure its balanced.
- Foodie experiences have been recommended to address the solar plexus chakra which is said to govern digestion.
- The sacral chakra is connected to creativity and fantasy so its balance could be achieved by visiting a museum of gallery.
- Walking experiences have been suggested for addressing the root chakra, which is responsible for feeling grounded.
The map can be found on VisitScotland.com alongside information on where to get chakra balancing experiences.
Eva Kwiecinska, VisitScotland Senior Content Manager, said: “We know that the pandemic has had a serious impact on mental health and wellbeing. As restrictions ease, there will be a focus on improving this and going on holiday or attending an event will prove popular ways to do that.
“This new map provides inspiration and highlights a different way in which wellbeing can be achieved both through the addressing of the chakras in general and the experiences they could link to in Scotland.
“Our research has shown that protecting mental health and a need for change and connection are key motivators for holidaying in Scotland.
“An overall emotional experience is critical for today’s visitors and is a powerful factor when choosing where to travel. Scotland, with its combination of nature, history and welcoming spirit ticks all the boxes when it comes to providing a sense of connection and enrichment.
“Tourism is a force for good – creating economic and social value in every corner of Scotland and enhancing the well-being of everyone who experiences it. We all deserve a holiday, and Scotland, and all it offers, will be the perfect antidote after lockdown.”
Find the map and blog here: The 7 Chakras of Scotland | VisitScotland
