I think that the majority of people today have some basic knowledge about the chakras. Most people understand that these opening regulate the energetic flow of life force (chi, ki, mana, etc). They also know that if this energy is disturbed in some way (stagnant energy, a blockage, or an imbalance in the rotation) that the physical body will be affected, often as ill health or dis-ease. Beyond the realm of this novice knowledge is a whole new world of fascinating concepts relating to the chakras. Perhaps the most important notion is that of the Kundalini. Simply put, the energy of the Kundalini will rise from the base chakra through to the crown when all aspects of the chakras are healthy. In essence, this awakening is enlightenment, a higher understanding of all. I’ve been looking for a copy of The Sacred Power for a while now. I had heard that it was one of the best explanations about the Kundalini from the traditional yogic point of view. I was not at all unsatisfied. I have enjoyed other titles from Swami Kripananda and found The Sacred Power just as readable and personally useful.