The chakras are the body’s seven energy wheels, stretching from the top of the head to the base of the spine. The third chakra, Manipura or “solar plexus chakra” (also called “navel chakra”), is the body’s energy powerhouse. When the chakra is working properly, energy can flow, but when it’s blocked or congested, you can feel powerless, stagnant, or quickly angry.
Here we’ll look at the specifics of the solar plexus chakra: what it is, how to tell if it’s blocked, and how to clear it effectively so energy can flow freely again.
The Navel Chakra in its Natural Element:
The navel chakra, or solar plexus, is located at the navel. “Manipura means “shining jewel of the city” and is associated with the natural element of fire. Its associated color is yellow, hence its link with fire and hence the sun.
It is directly linked to self-confidence. According to yoga teachers, this energy center is associated with self-esteem, goal-setting, personal identity, individual willpower, digestion and metabolism. When consciousness moves freely in this center, the energy of transformation empowers you.
Signs of Navel Chakra Energy Blockage:
When the solar plexus chakra is not properly aligned, digestive problems can occur. This misalignment can manifest itself in the physical body in a number of ways, including
- Inadequate nutrient processing
- Constipation
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Eating disorders
- Ulcers
- Diabetes
- Pancreas problems
Mental Signs:
When working with the solar plexus chakra, cultivate the will to better understand your concept of power, individuality and identification. Are there areas of your life where you feel powerless? How does this manifest itself? When your navel chakra is blocked, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Difficulty expressing yourself skillfully
- aggressive, overly rigid, or controlling behavior
- rapid outbursts of anger
- Victim mentality
- Need for help
- Lack of direction
- Fear or lack of courage
- Low self-esteem
How to Tune Your Navel Chakra
To balance your solar plexus chakra, try this navel chakra attunement exercise to awaken your inner strength and overcome any fears you may have about taking risks. This exercise uses groundwork, twists, and pranayama to address this fiery chakra and transform obstacles into advantages and fear into freedom.
Pranayama for the Navel Chakra
You can light the fire in your solar plexus chakra with kaphalabhati or cranial breathing – a pranayama technique that helps release toxins and infuse the mind and body with renewed energy.
Make yourself comfortable and close your eyes. Place the index finger and thumb of each hand against the other. Inhale through the nose and exhale rapidly, drawing the abdomen towards the spine. Inhale passively and exhale quickly.
The Benefits of Naval Chakra Balancing
By working to align the solar plexus chakra, you’ll allow trapped energy to flow more freely through the body, creating a higher sense of purpose and a better understanding of your personal identity. You may be able to express your needs and desires clearly, and find relief from digestive problems and mental blockages.