Energy vortexes are locations where energy seems especially intense. They often occur at or near cosmic portals.

Generally, energy vortexes are categorized as "inflow" and "upflow".

Upflow vortexes are usually revitalizing. The energy tends to feel more electric than magnetic. Some people link this with male or yang energy.

At upflow sites, such as Bell Rock in Sedona, Arizona, people often feel elated, euphoric, and at one with the Universe. These locations are ideal for meditation more than self-work.

When you're at an upflow site, it's important not to exceed your normal physical limitations, or climb too far out on any precipice. Inexperienced hikers may take dangerous risks as a result of the "high" of the upflow energy.

Inflow vortexes are generally characterized as more yin, or female energy. Those locations, including some spots at Sedona's Boynton Canyon, are best for healing, introspection and profound self-work.

Energy vortexes are unusual. Sedona, Arizona boasts at least four of them.

The following sites are the best know energy vortexes in Sedona.

AIRPORT MESA

Visit Airport Mesa and take a side trip to the site of one of Sedona's leading energy vortexes. The location is referred to as the "mini-mesa" and it is just northeast of the main mesa.

Location: Take Highway 89A west from where it joins with Highway 179. Turn south onto Airport Mesa Road. The trailhead parking lot is about a half a mile ahead, on the left.

BELL ROCK

Famous as an interdimensional portal, Bell Rock is one of the most dramatic energy points on Earth. The entire Bell Rock area is a vortex.

It was recognized by Native Americans as a sacred site. Scientists say that it's one of the key points in the energy grid that surrounds our planet.

The top of Bell Rock is a moderate one-mile climb, best climbed from the north. Stay on the Bell Rock Pathway, the clearly marked trail.

Only hardy, experienced climbers should attempt the summit. However, a summit climb isn't necessary to benefit from the energy vortex. There are many excellent resting places along Bell Rock Pathway, each with powerful natural energy.

Pack a lunch, a camera, and plenty of water. Once you find a place that seems ideal to stop at, you'll enjoy the revitalizing energy of Bell Rock as well as the magnificent view.

Location: Take Highway 179 south from where it joins with Highway 89A. Travel a little more than 3.5 miles. Look for the paved turnout and trailhead parking on the left, by milepost 309.8.

BOYNTON CANYON

Park at the trailhead and take Vista Trail to the nearby Kachina Woman rock formation.

Many people enjoy the energy at the Kachina Woman formation, and feel that it is the most beneficial vortex in the area.

Others prefer the 30-foot knoll next to the Kachina Woman. They say that it holds the strongest energy vortex at Boynton Canyon.

Location: From the juncture of Highways 179 and 89A, travel about three miles west on 89A. Turn right onto Dry Creek Road, also marked Forest Service Road / 152C. Drive another three miles and turn left onto Boynton Pass Road. Ahead on the right, you'll see the trailhead parking lot.

CATHEDRAL ROCK VORTEX

Cathedral Rock is probably the most famous rock formation in Sedona. It's what you see on many postcards and Sedona travel brochures.

The entire Cathedral Rock area is known for its unusual energy. Choose to view the entire Cathedral Rock from the nearby Crescent Moon Ranch picnic area, or visit the Rock for maximum energy benefits.

Unfortunately, only experienced climbers should attempt to reach the top via the one-and-a-half mile round-trip hike.

The good news is, the area's soothing energy is supposed to be strongest at the side of Cathedral Rock, nearest Oak Creek. That's an easier hike.

Location: From the intersection of Highways 89A and 179, travel south on 179 about three and a half miles. Turn right onto Back O' Beyond Road. The trailhead parking lot is on the left side, about half a mile down the road.

Other Sedona energy vortexes include Spaceship Rock and Munds Trail.