Solar Plexus Chakra

The solar plexus chakra (or Manipura) is the third of the seven primary chakras, located in the solar plexus, midway between the rib cage and the navel. It is the energy centre for our power, achievement and personal feelings – spanning a wide emotional area. It is this area that defines our self-esteem and helps us maintain our ‘personal power’. 

Our solar plexus chakra is tied to so many traits that we experience in our everyday lives. As with all the chakras, yoga and meditation are great ways to tune in and balance your solar plexus. Take a few minutes every day to sit in meditation and repeat affirmations such as “I am powerful” and “I know who I am and where I am going.” Our chakras are strongly affected by crystals so try using different gems in healing. Citrine, gold topaz, amber, tiger eye are just a few stones that resonate with the solar plexus chakra and will help you to boost your personal power. There are a number of different crystals that improve energy flow to the seven chakras, which you can find here.

Anger is a common result of imbalance in the solar plexus chakra so consider releasing it through exercise or sports – think kickboxing, martial arts or running. To bring about balance in the third chakra we need to understand it, so try to be more aware of its presence – breathe deeply into your chakra and feel the energy radiating out of your body. Relax your emotions and practise being more sensitive and open. Laugh, cry, feel and touch more to make your centre more available.

The Sanskrit name for the solar plexus chakra is ‘Manipura’ meaning “city of jewels” and is often compared to the radiant power of the sun, burning a luminous flame through our energy centre. When this chakra is balanced you will quite literally BE able to experience pranic energy radiating throughout. You are outgoing, cheerful, open and expressive and your confidence will help you to meet new challenges with ease. You’ll soon start to become in control of your life, realising your strong personal power.

Someone experiencing dysfunction with their third chakra may find that they are caught up by poor self-image, oversensitivity, and indecisiveness. You may find that smaller things upset you at work, home or in your relationship and there will be a sense of victim mentality where you begin blaming others for your personal issues. It can threaten your inner fire and you may lose touch with your unique individuality, giving away your power and control. You find it easier to simply blend in with the crowd.

The solar plexus chakra can also manifest in problems with your physical self. A blocked third chakra can cause imbalances in your digestion, causing cravings or bloating. You may also experience restless sleep, back pain, or stomach problems.

Experiment as much as you can with the solar plexus chakra, and use this information to learn to understand and activate it in your daily life. Healing of the third chakra is important so take risks and move forwards with your powerful solar energy!