VISSUDHA (THROAT CHAKRA)
“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” Maya Angelou
The throat chakra is the home of communication and the gateway to our creative expression. Truthful and meaningful communication is the key to freeing your 5th energy centre. The Sanskrit name Vissudha translates into ‘purification’. To purify the throat is to be mindful of both the purpose and content of our words. Physiologically this chakra governs the health of the throat, nose, ears, mouth, neck and vocal cords, as well as the thyroid and parathyroid glands, which are responsible for our metabolism. Next time you have a sore throat, or an ear infection for example, take note: this is a message from Vissudha.
The color of sky blue corresponds to Vissudha. Sky blue is the color of healing, peace, and harmony. The non-physical element associated with Vissudha is ether, the subtle vibrational field surrounding all things. To sense ether is to sense the world on a vibrational level. To trust ether is to trust the ‘vibes’ we pick up on.
When the throat chakra is out of alignment through a deficiency of energy, our true voice is locked inside, unable to be expressed. The inability to voice our inner truth, can lead to feelings of inadequacy, chronic shyness, and ultimately, to a withdrawal from the world. Through Chakradance, a combination of sound and movement begins the process of awakening the throat chakra. This awakening can release the hold on the throat, clearing the path for communication. Through this open channel our inner voice can be liberated, and we can discover a freedom of expression. With practice, we can speak out our truth and communicate more effectively with others.
At the other extreme, when the throat chakra is excessive in energy, our communication is strident and inauthentic. We are unable to hear our own inner truth or genuinely listen to others. This inability to listen leads to an overactive throat, which results in excessive speech. Incessant chatter lacks any real substance or depth, as it is disconnected from the true inner self.
Balancing Vissudha:
Have the intention of always being open and honest with your communication. Try to keep communication meaningful, not indulging in gossip, lies and pointless chit-chat. Be mindful of the Buddhist precept of wise speech: “Is it true, is it kind, is it necessary, is it the right time?”
Acknowledge that ‘listening’ is as much a part of communication as talking, and practice active listening. Be open to higher levels of communication (telepathy, clairaudience, channelling). Explore ways of connecting with your innate authtentic creativity eg. dance, painting, the way you dress, cooking etc.
Vissudha crystals:
Turquoise, blue quartz and blue lace agate all bring healing to the throat chakra. Turquoise is protective, allows for astral traveling and spiritual attunement. Blue quartz expands self-expression, communication, and creativity. Blue lace agate is calming, enhances patience and communication as well as higher states of awareness.
Vissudha oils:
Frankincense and sandalwood are oils you can use to bring healing to your throat chakra. They can be used for purification and protection. They also have a calming quality on the mind. In India, sandalwood is burned at funerals to cleanse the soul as it is released.
Chakradance workshops related to Throat chakra :
Wild Creatrix (Heal Your Life, online workshop)
Dance of Expression (Awakening, live session)
Throat Chakra – Vibrate A New Frequency Of Divine Truth (Freedom, live session)