Starting at the base of the spine, the solar plexus chakra is the third of the seven major energy centers.
Maṇipūra is the Sanskrit word for this chakra, which translates as maṇi = jewels and pūra = city. Often translated literally as the “city of jewels,” it is alternately translated in English as “resplendent gem,” or “lustrous gem.”
Represented by the color yellow and ruled by the element of fire, this chakra is our center for self-esteem, identity, ego, and our ability to define ourselves. It governs transformation and provides a sense of fearlessness and courage when making changes.
Located right above the navel, this chakra corresponds to the body areas and organs of the pancreas, liver, digestive system, and upper abdominal area.
The energies of the solar plexus chakra are responsible for:
- Confidence
- Dedication
- Motivation
- Self-esteem
- Transformation
- Vitality
- Willpower
The symbol of the solar plexus chakra is a 10-petaled lotus with an inverted triangle at the center and depending on the tradition, these symbols can have different meanings. The 10 petals can represent either the 10 prana vayus, or vital life forces, which control and nourish all functions of the human body or the 10 vrittis, or qualities, we must overcome in order to open this chakra. The inverted triangle represents pulling energy down towards the earth.
Signs your solar plexus chakra is balanced
When the solar plexus chakra is balanced and open, somethings we can experience are:
- Improved self-esteem
- Physical resilience
- Playfulness
- Spontaneity
- Strengthened will-power and assertiveness
- Vitality and radiance
A balanced maṇipūra also supports our ability to overcome challenges, be more decisive, strengthens a healthy sense of confidence, reliability, authenticity, and autonomy.
Because the solar plexus chakra converts inertia into movement, you will feel energetic, full of passion for life, and improved digestion of both food and experiences. And in a balanced state, you instinctually choose the right paths and work on them with devotion. Your values and ethics will be strong and you will feel more integrated into what you involve yourself with.
Signs your solar plexus chakra is imbalanced
When the third chakra is out of alignment, manifestations can be subtle or overt. They can surface as:
- Anxiety
- Digestion and liver problems
- Fatigue
- Feeling trapped
- Greed
- Hyperactivity
- Insecurity
- Jealousy
- Lack of confidence
- Lack of integrity
- Low self-esteem
- Selfishness
- Sluggishness
- Weakness
- Worthlessness
Repressed emotions can gather and ferment in the solar plexus chakra, as well as the body parts governed by this energy center, which blocks access to our vitality and personal power. For these reasons, it’s important to understand how to support this chakra into harmony.
How to activate the solar plexus chakra
There are a number of resourceful ways to activate, invigorate and harmonize the energy of the solar plexus, both physically and spiritually.
There is no one-size-fits-all or a single action that works for everyone. You will be drawn toward specific approaches at different times. Direct your focus towards themes of authenticity and personal power. Be open to creative ideas. Trust and follow your inner guidance. Do what is inspired in every moment because your system knows what will serve you best.
Energetic tools for the solar plexus chakra
Meditation is a dynamic and powerful mindfulness practice that deepens awareness, increases mental clarity, fortifies emotional stability, and reduces stress. There are many types of meditative practices and using one that’s attuned to the energies of the solar plexus chakra.
While meditating, visualizing the color yellow, a flame, or the sun just above the navel sparks this chakra into balancing itself. Give yourself permission to explore a sacred meditation practice that works for you.
The use of solar plexus chakra-related gemstones during meditation (like yellow tourmaline, citrine, and tiger’s eye) are a powerful, yet simple tool to incorporate into your meditation practice and enhance its benefits. Hold the gemstone(s) in your hand(s) or place them on or around the area of the Solar Plexus Chakra while meditating.
Incorporate crystals and gems into your altar, sacred space, wear them as jewelry, or place them in a pocket.
Holding the Rudra Mudra activates self-confidence.
Thinking, speaking, writing or creating art with the following affirmations can also powerfully assist you to bring your third chakra into thriving alignment and full expression:
- I am strong, powerful, and confident
- I am aligned with my purpose
- I am enough, just as I am
- I wholeheartedly believe in myself
- I confidently welcome new experiences
- I can achieve anything I set my mind to
- I am radiant and full of vitality
- I am fearless in the pursuit of what sets my soul on fire
- I am worthy of respect from myself and others
- I am motivated, persistent, and successful
- I am pure, positive energy
- I hold the key to my own happiness
- I love the person I am, both inside and out
- I am perfect, whole, and complete
Physical tools for the solar plexus chakra
Activities
Yoga asanas, or postures, can be used to support solar plexus energies, such as:
- Adho Mukha Svanasana, Dolphin
- Balasana, Child’s
- Bhujangasana, Cobra
- Dhanurasana, Bow
- Navasana, Boat
- Parivrtta Trikonasana, Revolved Triangle
- Purvottanasana, Reverse Plank
- Savasana, Corpse
Jumping rope or on a mini-trampoline stimulates the flow of energy for maṇipūra and is excellent for overall body conditioning. Plus, they’re fun!
Martial arts practices cultivate strength and a warrior mindset.
Try new activities to expand your comfort zone and elevate self-esteem.
Spending time in the sun allows us to connect with nature and invigorate the solar plexus chakra. Sunlight helps produce vitamin D, which is critical in supporting various bodily functions and fortifying our vitality.
Make a short list of 1-3 tasks you would like to accomplish this week, and set an intention to complete them. They can be as small or big as you’d like, whatever feels most feasible and aligned for you. By setting clear goals, you exercise, focus, and strengthen willpower.
Wear yellow (or incorporate this color into your environment) to boost this chakra’s energy. This color reminds us of the optimism and brightness of life. Yellow clothing or accessories can integrate this enlivening energy into the flow of your day.
Foods
The solar plexus is supported by eating a variety of chakra-specific foods (like bananas, sunflower seeds, ginger, grapefruit, hot peppers, lentil,and pineapple). Incorporate some of these foods into your meals and notice how they nourish you and manipūra.
Herbs and essential oils
Rosemary or fennel reduce strain on the body and soul and remove feelings of anxiousness.
Orange peel and other citrus oils are uplifting and floral, helping us to feel empowered and joyful.
Cinnamon bark warms the digestive system, releases any trapped wind and balances our blood sugar levels. It also boosts concentration and memory and helps focus on the present moment.
Cedarwood, geranium, juniper, lemongrass, peppermint, or black pepper also activate the inherent fire of the solar plexus chakra.
Explore your other chakras:
The information provided on the site is for educational purposes only, and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional if seeking medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.