Ignite Your Inner Fire - Solar Chakra

I don't know why, but the solar plexus is my favourite chakra. As I say this, I find myself wondering – is there such a thing as a favourite chakra? There's something about where it sits, nestled just beneath the ribs, that draws me in. I visualise it as an orb of golden light, shining like the sun and radiating warmth from both front and back.

In Sanskrit, it's known as the manipura chakra, meaning 'city of jewels' or 'resplendent gem' – a name that perfectly captures its luminous nature.

(The Soul Cards by Deborah Koff-Chapin contain some stunning images that beautifully capture the solar plexus energy, depicting the inner radiance we experience when this chakra is aligned and balanced.)

The solar plexus is intimately connected with self-esteem, self-worth, and how we perceive ourselves. Our deepest fears and phobias live here – particularly our fear of losing control or surrendering our personal power to others in relationships.

When the Solar Plexus is Balanced

A balanced solar plexus radiates confidence. You feel a strong sense of self-worth and a clear understanding of your life's purpose. Not only do you feel grounded, but you experience control over your life's direction. You're able to make decisions and conscious choices that align with your authentic self. This balance promotes inner peace, strong self-worth, and vitality.

When the Solar Plexus is Blocked

When this energy centre is blocked or imbalanced, we fall into patterns of self-judgment and relentless self-criticism. There's a pervasive feeling of being undeserving of life's goodness, coupled with an inability to gracefully accept and receive what comes our way. This imbalance often manifests as anger – both toward ourselves and others.

Restoring Harmony of the Solar Plexus

Find a quiet place and sit comfortably. Focus intentionally on your solar plexus and witness whatever arises without judgment. Allow any feelings to be present and give them space. If you notice your attention moving into your head, gently breathe slowly down into your solar plexus, creating space for the breath. Simply be present—don't try to fix or improve anything, regulate your breathing, or retreat into your mind as a distraction. Keep your focus centred on the solar plexus.

Pranayama

Breath work is a useful tool for stimulating and balancing the solar plexus. My favourite is Kapalabhati – meaning Skull Shining Breath. This involves rapid, forceful exhales through the nose while allowing natural inhales. The pumping action of the diaphragm directly stimulates the solar plexus area and builds internal heat and energy. It can help clear the energy channels and stimulate the solar plexus. 

Yoga

There are many yoga asanas that are perfect for the solar plexus. Work with one you are not familiar with. Here are a few:

• Boat Pose (Navasana): This pose engages the core muscles and can help ignite the fire element associated with the solar plexus.

• Plank Pose (Phalakasana): Plank strengthens the arms, back, and core, toning the entire third chakra area.

• Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana): This backbend opens the front body and energizes the solar plexus region.

Physical Practices 

Pilates also works directly with the solar plexus area along with core-strengthening exercises like planks and crunches. Dancing, especially movements that engage the core and torso, can activate this energy center.

Sound Healing 

Chanting the seed mantra "RAM" (pronounced "rahm") is specifically associated with the solar plexus. Listening to music in the frequency of 528 Hz or singing/humming can create vibrations in the core area.

Listen to Your Body

It's important to listen to your body. Don't force poses or movements; modify them as needed. Focus on your breath, incorporating deep conscious breathing into your practice. Find what works for you. 

Join sisters, Fin and Cath for A Journey through the Charkas – Saturday ,28th June. at Mission Bubble Studios, SE22. Check out workshops here.