What is Solar Plexus Chakra? How to Open and Balance

The third of seven chakras that reside within our bodies is the Solar Plexus Chakra. This vibrant, yellow beacon of personal power shines within us, just as the sun illuminates the landscape. This enigmatic energy center, nestled between the navel and the base of the sternum, is the essence of our confidence, resilience and determination.

In this article, LotusBuddhas will share valuable insights about the Solar Plexus Chakra – what it governs, how to balance and heal it. As a knowledgeable guide,  we will shed light on the mysteries of this energy center, empowering you to unlock its full potential and harness its immense power.

Attribute	Description
Name in Sanskrit	Manipura
Translation	Manipura translates from Sanskrit as “lustrous gem” or “city of jewels.”
Location	The Solar Plexus Chakra is usually located in the upper abdomen in the stomach area, above the navel and below the chest.
Color Association	Yellow is the color traditionally associated with the Solar Plexus Chakra.
Element	The Fire element is associated with the Solar Plexus Chakra, symbolizing transformation, activity, and power.
Function	The Solar Plexus Chakra is said to govern personal power, willpower, self-esteem, and assertiveness.
Physical Associations	This chakra is associated with the digestive system, muscles, pancreas, and adrenal glands.
Balanced Characteristics	When balanced, the Solar Plexus Chakra promotes a strong sense of personal power and self-confidence, ability to make conscious choices, and effective self-expression.
Imbalanced Characteristics	An imbalanced Solar Plexus Chakra can result in feelings of low self-esteem, difficulty making decisions, anger or control issues. Physically, it might lead to digestive problems, liver dysfunction, chronic fatigue, or hypertension.
Sound or Mantra	The seed mantra for the Solar Plexus Chakra is “RAM.” Chanting this sound is believed to help clear and balance this chakra.
Symbol	Manipura is symbolized by a ten-petaled lotus.
Yoga Poses for Activation	Boat Pose (Navasana), Warrior III (Virabhadrasana III), and Bow Pose (Dhanurasana) are commonly recommended for balancing and activating the Solar Plexus Chakra.
Healing Crystals	Stones such as citrine, yellow jade, tiger’s eye, and yellow jasper are often associated with the Solar Plexus Chakra and its balancing.

What is the Solar Plexus Chakra?

The Solar Plexus Chakra, or Manipura in Sanskrit, is like the powerhouse of your personal identity and inner fire. It’s located around the stomach area, right where you might feel those “butterflies” during moments of excitement or nervousness. This chakra is all about your personal power, self-confidence, and the ability to assert yourself in the world.

Think of the Solar Plexus Chakra as the sun at the center of your being, radiating energy and vitality. When it’s open and balanced, you feel empowered, self-assured, and ready to take on challenges. You have a strong sense of your own identity and the direction you want to go in life.

However, when the Solar Plexus Chakra is out of balance or blocked, you might experience the opposite. You could feel powerless, insecure, or indecisive. Physically, this imbalance might manifest as digestive issues or a lack of energy, reflecting the chakra’s association with the metabolic and digestive systems.

The color associated with the Solar Plexus Chakra is bright yellow, symbolizing cheerfulness, energy, and vitality. To nourish and balance this chakra, people often engage in activities that stoke their inner fire—like practicing assertiveness, setting personal goals, or doing physical activities that build core strength.

Functions of the Solar Plexus Chakra

The Solar Plexus Chakra resonates with the bright energy of the sun, radiating with a vibrant yellow glow. The word “Manipura” translates to “lustrous gem”,  reflecting its profound significance in personal power and transformation. Here are the fundamental functions of the Solar Plexus Chakra:

• Personal power: Manipura is the powerhouse of your personality, will, and self-esteem. It is where your sense of personal identity and individuality is formed. When it is functioning well, you feel confident, decisive, and have a strong sense of your self-worth.
• Willpower and discipline: The Solar Plexus Chakra governs your ability to control your impulses and stay committed to your goals. It fuels the discipline and willpower you need to conquer challenges, enabling you to manifest your desires and dreams into reality.
• Emotional regulation: This chakra plays a pivotal role in managing your emotional responses. It helps you to understand and process complex emotions like frustration, anger, and resentment, promoting emotional wellness and balance.
• Intellect and wisdom: Manipura is also the center of cognitive abilities and wisdom. It is where you assimilate and interpret the world around you, facilitating clarity of thought and decision-making.
• Energy distribution: The Solar Plexus Chakra serves as a vital hub for the distribution of life force energy (Prana) throughout your body. It affects your vitality and vigor, determining your energy levels and dynamism.
• Transformation: Last but not least, the Solar Plexus Chakra is associated with the transformative power of fire, the element it represents. It facilitates your personal growth and transformation, helping you to evolve and become the best version of yourself.

Balancing and nurturing this chakra is key to expressing your authentic self, realizing your goals, and maintaining emotional and energetic equilibrium.

Signs of Overactivity in Solar Plexus Chakra

An overactive Solar Plexus Chakra can manifest as a blazing inferno, engulfing the delicate balance of our energetic system and casting shadows over our interactions with the world.  The signs of an overactive Manipura are often characterized by an insatiable hunger for control and power, as the flames of this chakra burn wildly out of control.

Dominance and Aggression: An individual with an overactive Manipura may display an overpowering need to control situations and people, often resorting to aggressive behaviors to assert their authority.

Arrogance: The confidence imbued by a balanced Solar Plexus Chakra can morph into arrogance and condescension when overactive, leading to a sense of superiority and self-righteousness.

Perfectionism: The burning desire to achieve perfection in all aspects of life can be symptomatic of an overactive Solar Plexus Chakra, often leading to unrealistic expectations and constant dissatisfaction.

Overcompetitiveness: Fueled by the raging fire within, an overactive Manipura can manifest as an insistent need to outdo others and win at all costs, ultimately straining relationships and hindering personal growth.

Workaholism: The relentless drive to succeed may compel an individual with an overactive Solar Plexus Chakra to become consumed by work, sacrificing their health, relationships and wellbeing in the pursuit of professional achievements.

Anxiety and Stress: The excessive energy generated by an overactive Solar Plexus Chakra can contribute to heightened anxiety and stress levels, as the internal fire burns relentlessly, leaving one feeling on edge and unable to find peace.

Signs of a Blocked Solar Plexus Chakra

A blocked Solar Plexus Chakra manifests as a dwindling ember, struggling to maintain its warmth and light amid the darkness. The blockage stifles the vibrant energy of Manipura, casting a veil of uncertainty and powerlessness over our inner selves.  Recognizing the signs of a blocked Solar Plexus Chakra is essential in order to rekindle the fire within and reclaim our personal power.

Physical signs of a blocked Solar Plexus Chakra:

• Digestive problems and disorders, including ulcers, indigestion, and eating disorders
• Chronic fatigue
• Hypertension and other heart-related issues
• Diabetes or hypoglycemia
• Liver and kidney problems

Emotional and psychological signs of a blocked Solar Plexus Chakra:

• Low self-esteem and lack of self-confidence
• Feelings of powerlessness or victimhood
• Excessive need for control and authority
• Prone to outbursts of anger or fits of rage
• Anxiety or depressive disorders

Behavioral signs of a blocked Solar Plexus Chakra:

• Difficulty making decisions or taking action
• Fear of rejection or criticism
• Overly aggressive or domineering behavior
• Tendency to be overly critical towards oneself and others
• Difficulty setting and maintaining personal boundaries

An individual with a blocked Solar Plexus Chakra may grapple with profound self-doubt and a pervasive sense of unworthiness. This diminished self-perception often manifests in their thoughts and actions, obstructing their ability to acknowledge their inherent value and potential.

Such a blockage in the Manipura can also lead to a lack of clarity and conviction, resulting in chronic indecisiveness. Those affected may struggle to trust their intuition and make confident decisions, further exacerbating the feelings of uncertainty.

A blocked Solar Plexus Chakra can also impede motivation and drive, essential attributes associated with the inner fire of this energy center. Consequently, individuals may find themselves caught in a pattern of procrastination and stagnation, unable to progress towards their goals.

Another consequence of a weakened Solar Plexus Chakra relates to personal power and assertiveness. Without these key elements, individuals may find it challenging to establish and uphold healthy boundaries, leaving them susceptible to manipulation and energy drains. Moreover, a persistent fear of judgment or rejection can loom large for those with a blocked Manipura. This fear often inhibits them from embracing their authentic selves and projecting confidence in their social interactions.

Finally, this chakra’s blockage can engender a dependency on others for validation, support, and decision-making. Affected individuals may find it increasingly difficult to summon the inner strength and courage necessary for independence, further underscoring the crucial role of a balanced Solar Plexus Chakra for self-confidence and personal power.

Benefits of a Balanced Solar Plexus Chakra

When the Solar Plexus Chakra, the beacon of personal power, burns in perfect harmony, a myriad of benefits emerges, illuminating our lives with the golden radiance of self-confidence, determination, and purpose. A balanced Manipura is akin to a well-tended fire,  its warmth and brilliance permeating our very essence and transforming our interactions with the world.

Self-confidence: As the flames of the Solar Plexus Chakra dance in equilibrium, we find ourselves stepping into our power with unwavering self-assurance, embracing our unique qualities and trusting our abilities to navigate life’s challenges.

Assertiveness: A balanced Manipura bestows upon us the courage and conviction to assert our boundaries, ensuring we maintain healthy relationships and protect our personal energy.

Decisiveness: The clarity and intuition imbued by a harmonious Solar Plexus Chakra allow us to make decisions with confidence, guided by our internal compass and the wisdom of our inner selves.

Motivation and Drive: The inner fire that fuels our ambitions burns brightly within a balanced Solar Plexus Chakra, inspiring us to take action and pursue our goals with steadfast determination and resolve.

Emotional balance: When our Solar Plexus Chakra is in harmony, we are better equipped to navigate the ever-changing landscape of our emotions, maintaining equilibrium amidst the ebb and flow of life’s experiences.

Personal growth: A balanced Manipura serves as the cornerstone of our personal development, providing the courage and resilience required to face our fears, overcome obstacles, and embrace growth with grace and acceptance.

Enhanced willpower: The transformative power of a harmonious Solar Plexus Chakra bolsters our willpower, enabling us to break free from limiting beliefs and patterns that hinder our progress.

Inner peace: As the flames of our inner fire burn in perfect balance, we experience a profound sense of inner peace, grounded in the knowledge that we are powerful, capable and worthy of all that life has to offer.

How to Open and Balance Solar Plexus Chakra

Opening and balancing the Solar Plexus Chakra, your energetic center of personal power and confidence, can transform not just how you feel about yourself, but how you interact with the world. Here’s a practical guide to help you cultivate a strong and balanced Manipura:

1. Practice Solar Plexus Affirmations: Begin your day with affirmations that reinforce your strength, confidence, and personal power. Phrases like “I am strong,” “I am worthy,” and “I can achieve my goals” can fortify your sense of self and ignite your inner fire.
2. Engage in Core-Strengthening Activities: Since the Solar Plexus Chakra is in the abdomen area, exercises that build core strength can stimulate this energy center. Think of activities like yoga, Pilates, or martial arts that focus on the core and foster inner strength.
3. Spend Time in the Sun: The element associated with the Solar Plexus Chakra is fire, and what better way to connect with fire than basking in the sunlight? Allow the warmth and brightness of the sun to energize your chakra, but remember to protect your skin!
4. Meditate with Visualization: Envision a bright, yellow light at your solar plexus, growing warmer and stronger with each breath. This practice can help clear blockages and balance the chakra, enhancing your feelings of self-worth and power.
5. Eat Yellow Foods and Spices: Incorporating yellow foods like bananas, pineapples, and corn, as well as spices like turmeric and ginger, can support the Solar Plexus Chakra. These foods are not only nutritious but also carry the vibrant energy of yellow, resonating with and activating the chakra.
6. Practice Assertiveness: Learning to express your needs and boundaries clearly and respectfully can strengthen your Solar Plexus Chakra. It’s about honoring your self-worth and stepping into your power.
7. Journal for Self-Discovery: Understanding your core beliefs, fears, and desires can help you tap into the Solar Plexus Chakra’s energy. Journaling can be a powerful tool for self-reflection, helping you to connect with your inner self and identify any areas that may need healing or reinforcement.
8. Use Supporting Crystals: Stones like citrine, tiger’s eye, and yellow jasper can be wonderful tools for balancing the Solar Plexus Chakra. Carry these crystals with you, meditate with them, or place them on your abdomen during rest times to help harmonize this energy center.

Best Crystals for Healing the Solar Plexus Chakra

When it comes to nurturing and balancing your Solar Plexus Chakra, the vibrant energy center of personal power and self-confidence, certain crystals can be particularly potent allies. Here’s a list of some of the best crystals to support the Solar Plexus Chakra, each with its unique properties and resonances:

1. Citrine: Often hailed as the quintessential crystal for the Solar Plexus Chakra, citrine radiates positivity and joy. Its bright, sunny energy can help dispel fears and insecurities, boosting self-esteem and encouraging a more optimistic outlook.
2. Tiger’s Eye: This stone is all about balancing power, courage, and protection. It’s believed to help you harness your inner strength, assert yourself, and make decisions with confidence and clarity. Tiger’s eye is also known for grounding and stabilizing, helping you stay centered in your power.
3. Pyrite: Often called “Fool’s Gold,” pyrite is another excellent choice for the Solar Plexus Chakra. It’s associated with wealth and abundance, but on an energetic level, it encourages strong leadership qualities, promoting vitality and steadfastness.
4. Yellow Jasper: This gentle stone carries the energy of the sun, offering support and protection. Yellow jasper is known to promote a sense of inner peace and clarity, aligning your personal will with your actions and boosting your confidence.
5. Amber: Although not a crystal in the traditional sense, amber is a powerful organic gem that resonates with the Solar Plexus Chakra. It’s known for its cleansing and healing properties, helping to balance emotions, clear the mind, and release negativity.
6. Sunstone: True to its name, sunstone embodies the warmth and brightness of the sun, instilling joy and vitality. It’s thought to encourage independence and originality and is particularly useful for those looking to break free from limiting beliefs or behaviors.
7. Golden Calcite: This crystal helps amplify energy and clear out old energy patterns that may be holding you back. Golden calcite can boost your overall energy levels and increase your determination and resilience.

When working with these crystals, you can carry them with you, meditate with them, or place them on your Solar Plexus Chakra during relaxation or healing sessions. The intention is key, so focus on your desire to strengthen, balance, and energize this vibrant energy center. Over time, you may notice a heightened sense of self-assurance, empowerment, and the courage to pursue your true path.

Yoga Poses to Stimulate the Solar Plexus Chakra

Certain yoga poses, particularly those that focus on the abdominal area, can effectively stimulate and balance the Solar Plexus Chakra. Here are some recommended asanas:

• Boat Pose (Navasana): This pose strongly engages the abdominal muscles, thereby stimulating the Solar Plexus Chakra. It can improve digestion and alleviate stress, while also enhancing focus and determination.
• Warrior I Pose (Virabhadrasana I): This powerful standing pose activates the Solar Plexus Chakra by increasing energy in the body and boosting self-confidence. It encourages courage, strength, and tenacity.
• Warrior II Pose (Virabhadrasana II): Like Warrior I, Warrior II fosters strength and courage. This pose also cultivates concentration and balance, all of which are associated with a healthy Solar Plexus Chakra.
• Half Twist Pose (Ardha Matsyendrasana): This seated twisting pose stimulates the digestive system, detoxifies the body, and encourages the energy flow in the Solar Plexus region, thereby aiding in the balance of the Manipura Chakra.
• Bow Pose (Dhanurasana): This pose, which forms the shape of a bow, energizes the body and improves digestion. It helps to open up and stimulate the Solar Plexus Chakra, promoting self-confidence and willpower.
• Plank Pose (Kumbhakasana): The Plank Pose, although seemingly simple, requires strength and determination. It is powerful for strengthening the core and stimulating the Solar Plexus Chakra.

Remember to always listen to your body when practicing yoga. If any pose causes discomfort or pain, ease out of it gently. Yoga is not about pushing your limits but creating harmony between your body, mind, and spirit.

As always,  it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare provider or a certified yoga instructor if you’re new to yoga or if you have any health concerns. Practice with care and enjoy the journey of self-discovery that yoga facilitates.

Through this information, LotusBuddhas hopes that you can better understand the Solar Plexus Chakra, as well as its impact on our physical and mental health. But that’s not enough, because the energy system includes 7 main chakras: Root Chakra, Sacral Chakra, Heart Chakra, Throat Chakra, Third Eye Chakra and Crown Chakra. Therefore, you should learn about all 7 chakras to have a more accurate understanding of balancing this spiritual energy system.