MANIPURA – SOLAR PLEXUS CHAKRA
”Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one’s courage.” Anais Nin, Diary
Your solar plexus chakra is your one-way ticket to discovering your own personal power and will. It is located between your navel, and the base of your sternum. You may feel it as an energetic space around your diaphragm. It’s called Manipura in Sanskrit, which means lustrous gem. When Manipura is activated, our whole system becomes fully energised, which in turn fires up our power, drive and sense of purpose.
Manipura is the seat of our masculine, yang consciousness which is intrinsic in both men and women. Connection can be made with this potent energy through the use of masculine symbols including the sun, fire, and the warrior.
Fire is the element associated with the Manipura solar plexus . And just as fire burns and generates energy, so the solar plexus fuels our metabolism.
When we bring balance to this energy centre, we can begin to experience true inner strength and authentic power while moving away from the unhealthy desire to gain power over others. This creates a more relaxed and spontaneous life, powerful but free.
When the solar plexus is excessive in energy, we often become over-controlling of others as a strategy for gaining power. This can also manifest as extreme competitiveness, aggressive outbursts and judgemental attitudes. With an over-charged solar plexus, we can fill life with constant activity, which often results in extreme workaholism, obsessive fitness regimes, or the driving pursuit of impossible goals. Through Chakradance we use movement as a way of harnessing our energy whilst containing the energetic vibrations within our bodies. In this way, we can begin to experience a true inner strength and authentic power while moving away from the unhealthy desire to gain power over another. This process, with practice, can offer a more relaxed and spontaneous life, whilst growing acceptance of both oneself and others.
Deficient energy in the solar plexus is reflected in someone who gives away power and control, and therefore becomes submissive to others. This leads to low self-esteem, as well as a loss of drive, will and spontaneity. When we lose power, we also lose touch with our unique individuality, and instead find it easier to simply follow the crowd. And when our metaphorical fire has gone out, a state of inertia takes hold and we feel empty, aimless and lacking in energy.
Expressing power need not be an act of overpowering. It is an act of being in touch with who you truly are and having your actions follow that belief. It is being able to commit, have integrity, keep your word and deal honourably. A balanced and healthy Manipura allows us to live lives of dignity and self-respect.
When we balance the solar plexus, we accept who we truly are – and accept others for their true selves too. Getting in touch with your Manipura is one of the most empowering acts of self-definition and self-worth any of us can make. With a balanced solar plexus, vibrant and healthy, you can fearlessly walk away from disrespect, set firm boundaries, negotiate from a position of self-worth, and truly feel and express your power safely.
Everyday ways to balance your Manipura:
Tune into the solar energy provided by the sunlight. Boost your confidence with aromatherapy. Try dynamic dance, martial arts, movement practices like shaking dynamic moving meditation, yoga. Wear yellow or include it into your home interior. Eat yellow foods.
Manipura crystals: Amber, citrine, tiger’s eye and topaz all resonate with the solar plexus chakra. Amber provides positive and soothing energy. Citrine raises damaged self- esteem and gives positive energy, warmth, and optimism. Tiger’s eye connects us to our will-power and confidence. Topaz is warming and soothing. Find a way of working with crystal energy that resonates for you. It may be as simple as carrying one or two around with you or sitting with them in meditation.
Manipura oils: Rosemary, peppermint, black pepper, and ginger all have a stimulating effect on the Manipura. These oils can be used in massage treatments, burned in an oil burner or you may even add a few drops in to your bath when you feel you need some charging up!
Chakradance workshops related to Solar Plexus:
Warrior Goddess (Heal Your Life, online workshop)
Dance of Power (Awakening, live session)
Manipura Solar Plexus – Ignite Your Power And Purpose (Freedom, live session)
