Balancing Manipura Chakra
Manipura chakra is the solar plexus, our seat of personal power. This fiery energy wheel is an explosion of confidence radiating from the space between your ribs and belly button. It’s really one of the best feelings in the world, right? Confidence. When we’re confident we’re not worrying about what we lack, rather, we focus on what we know because we feel secure in that. We can move forward with clarity since confidence and doubt can’t live in the same space. We’re disciplined and independent, taking responsibility for our own life and ownership of the direction it will go.
When a chakra is imbalanced it could be either overactive or blocked. An overactive solar plexus manifests as insecurity, feelings of lack, and even low self-esteem. A blocked Manipura causes us to feel overly critical, stubborn, or controlling, suppressing the confidence and sense of purpose we feel when the chakra is balanced. Here are some tips on how to bring the warm glow back to Manipura and energize yourself with divine confidence.
Color
The color yellow resonates with the sacral chakra as a symbol of happiness, optimism, and creativity. Gazing at yellow flowers, lighting yellow candles, or wearing yellow can literally brighten your mood. Try keeping a yellow candle handy and then light it the next time you catch negative self-talk. Breathe deeply as you gaze into the candle’s flame, allowing the light to shine confidence on your spirit.
Foods
Foods that are grown in the sun and are the same color as the sun are excellent for raising the vibration of Manipura. And, It doesn’t get any sunnier than tropical fruit. Fresh pressed pineapple juice is a refreshing and energizing start to the day, especially when you’re experiencing digestive issues due to an overactive solar plexus. No juicer? Simply puree the pineapple in a blender with a bit of water. Place a fine strainer over a bowl then pour the puree into the strainer. Allow to drip for 15-20 minutes and chill before serving.
Mudras
An imbalanced solar plexus can have physical effects beyond the digestive system including bloating, nausea, and short-term memory loss. The Matangi mudra eases these symptoms while also raising confidence and the ability to navigate experiences with wisdom. The Rudra mudra vibrates with the earth energy in your body, raising it, and your sense of security. When you feel that your energy is low, hold this mudra near the solar plexus until your energy is restored.
Postures
Bow pose is an excellent shape for balancing Manipura. This posture sends energy and blood flow to the digestive organs, stimulating and healing them. Plank pose activates nearly every muscle and energy center in the body, especially the solar plexus. Hold this posture to build up heat in the body and transform that energy into confidence for your day.
Mantras
Manipura gives us the energy of “I do,” the confidence and creativity to perform whatever task lies ahead of us. But, sometimes our confidence gets shaky. Mantras are a great way to bring our thoughts back into alignment with a healthy solar plexus. Try these: “I am confident and capable,” “I forgive myself for past mistakes, and I learn from them,” “I direct my own life,” and “I feel motivated to pursue my purpose.”