We last looked at the Sacral Chakra in our chakra article series – we are now on to our third chakra, our Solar Plexus chakra. The subject of chakras is actually very extensive, so what we aim to do here is to give you a general overview, as well as suggestions to strengthen and support each chakra.
The Solar Plexus Chakra is known as Manipura in Sanskrit, which means lustrous gem, and is located between the naval and the base of the sternum. It is the center of personal power, and relates to self-esteem, self-confidence, self-discipline, self-acceptance, self-respect (note all the ‘self’s’!). Naturally, the Solar Plexus Chakra is also where the ego sits. The colour of this chakra is yellow, and its element, fire – it fires up our sense of purpose, drive, and spontaneity. The developmental age of the Solar Plexus Chakra is from approximately age 8 through to puberty, where one starts discovering his personal power and sense of self, finding one’s own identity. This chakra is also where we develop our ‘gut instincts’, our inner guidance.
The Solar Plexus Chakra governs the power of transformation, willpower, and inner strength. The areas of the body that it rules include the stomach, middle spine, gallbladder, liver, pancreas, and small intestines. When our Solar Plexus chakra is in balance, we are able to maintain our “personal power”, are able to set firm personal boundaries, and feel safe and secure. We accept ourselves for who we are and embrace our unique individuality. We feel confident, joyful, and spontaneous, has a strong sense of responsibility and discipline, yet willing to take risks and challenges.
An unbalanced Solar Plexus Chakra may show up as lack of self-confidence and self-esteem, fears of rejection, over-sensitivity to criticism, or indecisiveness. There may be a victim mentality, with a need for constant reassurance from others, and a sense of insecurity. The flip of side of this (over-active chakra) may be anger, being critical or judgmental, and controlling.
Nourishing your Solar Plexus Chakra and keeping it in balance
Affirmations, a balanced diet, “chakracises”, and integrating the colour yellow into your wardrobe are some ways to keep your Solar Plexus Chakra healthy and in balance. Below are some suggestions on what you can do:
Affirmations:
I accept and value myself exactly as I am. I know I am becoming the best person I can be. I determine to treat myself with honour and respect. My personal power is becoming stronger each day. I am my own person. I choose how to think and behave. I deserve all the love, respect, joy, and prosperity that comes to me. I am open to receiving all life’s good things.
Food
Granola and Grains: pastas, breads, cereal, rices, flax seed, sunflower seeds, etc.
Dairy: milk, cheeses, yogurt
Spices: ginger, mints (peppermint, spearmint, etc.), Melissa, chamomile, turmeric, cumin, fennel
“Chakracises”
Dance! Do the twist, hula hooping, or belly dancing. Go outdoors and bask in the yellow energy of the sun.
Scents
Vetivert, Ylang Ylang, Bergamot, Lemon, Juniper, Rosemary, Yarrow and Marjoram
Crystals
Amber purifies blockages, positive mental attitude.
Citrine promoting clarity, focus, and will power.
Gold boost confidence and self-esteem.
Tiger’s Eye courage and strength.
Yellow Calcite / Honey Calcite eliminates negative thoughts and self-defeating behaviors.
Yellow Fluorite energetic cleanser.
Do share with us your own tips! 🙂
photo credit: SVA-Photos PureCitrine via photopin (license)
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