Located in the upper abdomen below the ribcage and above the navel is Manipura, the third chakra also known as the solar plexus chakra. It is connected to the element fire. Manipura means Lustrous Gem, the chakra associated with strengthening the digestive system and diaphragm. It is represented by the colour yellow and is depicted by a ten-petal lotus which represent the 10 fingers and thumbs of both hands. Inside the lotus is a downward pointing triangle meaning that we rise up from the earth and expand as we rise. There is also an image of a ram. This animal represents power. Power to achieve and overcome. Manipura is where our self-confidence and power is expressed. The energy that drives the solar plexus chakra is a combination of the stability that comes from our root chakra and the movement that comes from our sacral chakra.
Energetically, manipura when balanced and clear is there to ignite our personal power so that we can navigate our lives with strength, determination, and courage. The element of fire is what ignites the power and wakes up this chakra. Igniting your internal fire, waking your senses, and steering this energy inside you towards a personal goal. There is, however, a fine line with power and determination and with using it as a source of inspiration, rather than dominance. Balancing this chakra will enable us to use this power with integrity so as not to be too strong that it dominates others or ourselves. When balanced, we feel confident, self-motivated and have a sense of purpose. When unbalanced we can be left feeling unmotivated, have low self-esteem and have trouble making decisions. Feelings of self-doubt may arise which can lead to worrying about what others may think about you and the need to continually search for the approval from others. This imbalance can lead to unhealthy attachments to things and people in your life. There are many ways we can balance our solar plexus chakra however the first step is a willingness to understand one’s own power and individuality. An unbalanced solar plexus chakra in some individuals can lead to a dominance of power and controlling behavior. In others it can lead to a victim mentality and excessive dependence on others.
Meditation
Meditation is one of the strongest ways we can tune into and balance all of our chakras. For manipura, sit in a comfortable position and place your hands on your solar plexus, below your ribcage, but above your navel. As you breath in, feel the breath move deep into your belly and fill the area beneath your hands. Visualise the breath as the colour yellow, drawing in through your nose, down through your body and resonating in your solar plexus. Each breath like a fire that burns brightly igniting the feeling of strength within you. It may help to repeat positive affirmation with each inhalation, allowing the energy to grow.
Repeating positive affirmations such as:
- I can create positive change in my life.
- I feel motivated to pursue my purpose.
- I stand strong in my own personal power.
- I feel calm, confident, and power.
- I am confident in my own power whilst still treating others with respect.
Yoga
Yoga poses with the intention of stimulating and massaging the digestive system are most beneficial for balancing the solar plexus chakra.
- Paschimottanasana – a traditional seated forward fold is one of the most beneficial postures for stimulating the digestive system. Sitting on your mat with your legs outstretched in front of you, knees can be straight or slightly soft. Inhale, lift and lengthen through the spine, exhale fold forward lengthening the spine forward, leading with the chest. Arms may be placed wherever feels comfortable for you.
- Dhanurasana – Bow Pose. Back bends are excellent postures to both stimulate and lengthen the muscles of the abdominals as well as the digestive system and to strengthen the whole back of the body. Lying on your stomach, bend your knees, reach behind and take a hold of your ankles. Inhale to prepare your body and exhale to lift, using the strength of your legs. Continue to breath rhythmically as you are in the pose before releasing and lying on your belly, cheek to the mat. Arms down by your side.
- Spinal Twists such as Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half Spinal Twist), Parivrtta Trikonasana (Revolved Triangle) and Supta Matsyendrasana (Supine Spinal Twist) all help to stimulate the solar plexus my massaging the digestive system.
Spending time in the sun can also stimulate the solar plexus. The Solar plexus is represented by both the colour yellow and the element of fire. Sunshine is known for its healing properties and its benefits of improving one's mood. Walking or exercising in the sunshine will help to stimulate this chakra.
When in balance this chakra can help to propel us forward to reach the stars whilst still keeping our feet on the ground. It’s the energy and drive behind the chakra that enables us to light this fire and keep it lit.