Whether you’re new to energy work, or have been at it for some time, chances are you’re aware of the chakra system. This system is derived from the ancient Vedic texts of India, which as it has been passed down through the ages, has been adapted and expanded upon. Today, when people typically refer to chakras, they’re speaking of the seven centers (or wheels) of energy in the human body. While there are technically 114 chakras located throughout the body, the ones that are based at the major points located along the spine are what we’re discussing.
In this post, we’re specifically going to center in on the solar plexus, and what kinds of affirmations you can incorporate into your daily life that will help this chakra. If you’d like to know more about this chakra, keep reading because we’re delving deeper into:
What the solar plexus chakra is
How to keep the solar plexus balanced
Top affirmations to benefit your solar plexus
What is the Solar Plexus Chakra?
What does the solar plexus chakra represent?
The third chakra is associated with the fire element and the digestive system. Image courtesy of 7 Chakra Store.
The solar plexus chakra (also known as manipura) is the third chakra as you move up from the base of your spine. It is located just above the belly button, and is associated with the color yellow. Yellow is an energetic color, which is often a companion to the sun, heat, and fire. The solar plexus is associated with the fire element for this reason. The fire of this element is tied to the digestive system, which helps with digestion and the proper absorption of nutrients.
Your solar plexus is the seat of your confidence, your ego, and where your self-esteem comes from. When this chakra is operating and open, you can feel empowered, and confident in your life’s goals and purpose. One of the best feelings we can have is being secure in ourselves, and knowing that we’re exactly where we’re supposed to be. When your solar plexus is functioning properly, you do not let doubts or self-criticism drag you down.
How to Keep Your Solar Plexus Chakra Balanced (and How to Tell if It’s Unbalanced)
What are the best ways to tell if your solar plexus is unbalanced?
An unbalanced solar plexus can have a variety of symptoms. Image courtesy of Subconscious Servant.
Overactive. You may find that your solar plexus is overactive when you start to demand more control of your life and situations. This is when the ego gets out of control, and we think that only our goals and opinions matter. When this occurs, you may find yourself demanding perfectionism from not only yourself, but from others. All of this is exhausting to your energetic system, and like the flames of a fire, causes you to burn out fast.
Underactive. When your solar plexus is blocked, this can lead to feelings of unworthiness, and low self-esteem. You may feel like your life has no meaning, and there is no point in trying to change anything because you’ll only fail. You may experience feelings of inadequacy and constantly compare yourself to others. Falling into a victim mentality is easy to do when your solar plexus is blocked.
Whether your solar plexus is overactive or underactive, this can also manifest physically. You may start to have problems with your digestive system, such as constipation or IBS. When this chakra is imbalanced, there are emotional, physical, and energetic consequences.
The best ways to keep your solar plexus in alignment are:
Meditation. This is one of the best ways to bring attention to a chakra that is feeling out of alignment. Whether you do a specific guided meditation for this chakra, or sit in stillness with the sound of your breath, drawing awareness to the solar plexus can help you start to remove any blockages.
Yoga. Yoga is also a mindful way to bring the attention of your mind, body, and spirit towards the solar plexus. There are poses such as forward fold, bow pose, and revolved triangle that are designed to stimulate this chakra. Specific breathing techniques like breath of fire are also helpful. (Remember, this chakra is associated with the fire element!)
Crystals/stones. Incorporate or keep around you yellow colored crystals or stones. Consider tiger’s eye or citrine to hold on to while you meditate.
Keep a good balanced diet. Pay attention to your digestive process, and ensure you’re getting proper nutrients and staying hydrated. If you’re up for it, add some yellow colored foods such as bananas to your daily routine, or create a dish or a drink with lemons.
Affirmations directed towards the solar plexus. Affirmations are a fantastic way to ensure your solar plexus is getting attention if it is feeling blocked. These sayings are a way to affirm and say out loud what you’re feeling (or how you want to feel.)
Our Top Affirmations for the Solar Plexus Chakra
Try out these affirmations the next time your solar plexus feels blocked
Affirmations are a great way to say out loud exactly how you want to feel. Image courtesy of Stocksy.
Whether your solar plexus is blocked, or you want to keep it open and balanced, these are our favorite affirmations.
I am calm, confident, and capable
I am ready to face challenges
I forgive myself for past mistakes, and I choose to learn from them
I only need to control my reaction to situations
I make my decisions with confidence
I choose to be my authentic self
I believe I am valuable
I have what I need to succeed
I have a purpose
I am where I am supposed to be
Whether you want to say all of these affirmations, or choose the ones that resonate with you, what counts is your driving towards a better balance with your solar plexus. Consider using these affirmations and pair it with yoga, meditation, or crystal work to unblock and realign your third chakra.
Bridget Houlihan
Bridget Houlihan is a writer, poet, and cat mom living in Pittsburgh, PA.
