Confidence. It’s integral to self-assurance and personal empowerment but can be elusive to uncover and cultivate. There are many reasons for low self-confidence, which childhood experiences, trauma, and family ideologies can cause. An excellent place to begin the journey of improving your self-esteem lies within the solar plexus chakra.
Nestled in your diaphragm, a few inches above your navel, the solar plexus chakra, or Manipura as it is known in Sanskrit, is often hailed as the energetic epicenter for cultivating robust self-esteem and unwavering confidence.
This luminous energy wheel is characterized by its association with the color yellow, symbolizing warmth, vitality, and the transformative power akin to Fire. A balanced solar plexus chakra fosters a healthy sense of personal power, enabling us to navigate life’s challenges with assertiveness and poise.
Imbalances, however, may manifest as self-doubt, indecision, or a reluctance to embrace our full potential. Through practices like meditation, yoga, and breathwork, we can embark on a journey of self-discovery, activating and harmonizing the solar plexus chakra to unlock the innate confidence that resides within.
10 Signs of a Blocked Solar Plexus Chakra
An imbalanced or blocked solar plexus chakra may manifest in various physical, emotional, and psychological signs. Scroll down to find out how to unblock this energy center. Here are some common indicators of an imbalance in the solar plexus chakra:
1. Low Self-Esteem
Feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt, and a lack of confidence can be associated with a blocked solar plexus chakra.
2. Lack of Confidence
Difficulty asserting oneself, making decisions, or taking initiative may suggest an imbalance in the solar plexus chakra.
3. Insecurity
Persistent feelings of insecurity, fear of judgment, and an overwhelming concern about what others think may be signs of an imbalance.
4. Digestive Issues
The solar plexus chakra is associated with the digestive system. Imbalances may manifest as digestive problems such as indigestion, bloating, or stomach discomfort.
5. Procrastination
A blocked solar plexus chakra can lead to a lack of motivation and procrastination, hindering personal and professional growth.
6. Control Issues
On the flip side, excess energy in the solar plexus chakra may lead to controlling behaviors, a need for power, and difficulty delegating.
7. Aggression or Passivity
Imbalances can manifest as either excessive aggression and dominance or passivity and a lack of assertiveness.
8. Emotional Sensitivity
Over-sensitivity to criticism, rejection, or perceived failures may indicate an imbalance in the solar plexus chakra.
9. Difficulty Setting Boundaries
Challenges in setting and maintaining healthy boundaries in relationships may be linked to an imbalanced solar plexus chakra.
10. Physical Tension
Tension in the abdominal area, lower back pain, or issues with the adrenal glands may be associated with a blocked solar plexus chakra.
How to Unblock the Solar Plexus Chakra
Balancing and activating the solar plexus chakra involves various practices aimed at promoting a sense of personal power, confidence, and self-esteem. You can explore practices such as meditation, yoga, breathwork, affirmations, and visualization to enhance confidence. These techniques aim to promote the healing of the solar plexus region.
See also: Basics of the Solar Plexus Chakra💛
It’s important to note that the concept of chakras and their associations comes from ancient Eastern philosophies and spiritual traditions. Practices related to chakras are often associated with holistic and alternative approaches to health and wellness. Approach chakra work with an open mind and a willingness to explore what resonates with you personally.
Here are some practices you can consider:
1. Meditation
Practice meditation focusing on the solar plexus region. Visualize a bright yellow light in this area, expanding with each breath. Imagine this light energizing and balancing the chakra. Repeating a mantra while you meditate will help to heal your solar plexus chakra. The mantra associated with this chakra is ‘Ram.’
Meditating with a yellow candle harnesses its fire-like energy and symbolism to activate and balance the Manipura chakra, fostering self-confidence, inner strength, and purpose, while enhancing self-awareness through mindfulness.
Watch: Yellow Candle Meditation to Stimulate the Third Chakra 🕯️
2. Yoga
Specific yoga poses can help activate and balance the solar plexus chakra, releasing any suppressed energy. Poses that engage the core, such as boat pose (Navasana) and twists like seated spinal twists, are immensely beneficial. The warrior pose builds confidence and aligns the third chakra. Practicing certain yoga flows, such as the sun salutation, warms up the body and connects with the fierce power of the sun. Do not worry if you experience waves of emotional energy, as it is part of the clearing process.
3. Breathwork
Engage in pranayama (breathwork) exercises. Deep and rhythmic breathing can help balance the energy in the solar plexus region. Try diaphragmatic breathing or kapalabhati breathing. Focusing on your breath allows you the space to step back and realistically assess the situation. Breathing deeply promotes peace and self-compassion.
🟡 Other Ways to Work with the Solar Plexus Chakra
→ Solar Plexus Chakra Grid (members-only)
→ Third Chakra Ritual (members-only)
4. Affirmations
Repeat positive affirmations related to personal power and self-esteem. Examples include “I am confident,” “I am powerful,” and “I believe in my abilities.” Repeat these affirmations regularly, either out loud or in your mind, or by writing them down. They will help reprogram your unconscious mind by reversing negative thoughts and replacing them with positive ones.
Find more affirmations here: Affirmations for Creativity, Inspiration, and Motivation
5. Visualization
Use guided visualization to picture a strong, vibrant yellow ball of energy swirling at your solar plexus chakra. With every breath, imagine this rotating ball of light getting larger. Envision this energy center radiating confidence, strength, and empowerment, dissolving blockages or negative energy flows within you.
6. Crystals
Certain crystals are associated with the solar plexus chakra. Yellow stones like amber, citrine, and yellow calcite are believed to help balance and activate this energy center. Tiger’s eye is especially powerful as it is associated with confidence, strength, and enthusiasm. Try making your own crystal grids or place the crystal on the solar plexus during meditation, or carry it with you.
7. Aromatherapy
Use essential oils with scents that are associated with the solar plexus chakra, such as lemon, chamomile, and ginger. Inhaling these scents during meditation or throughout the day can promote balance by helping to elevate your inner state and your immediate environment.
8. Healthy Lifestyle
Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep, contributes to overall well-being and can positively impact the solar plexus chakra. Eating more whole grains and legumes contributes to healthy digestion. Adding spices to your meals has a heating effect on the body. Remember to eat yellow fruit and vegetables as part of your daily diet, as they can help to enhance your mood.
9. Sunshine
Heading outdoors into the sunlight helps to improve your levels of Vitamin D, which can help with anxiety and depression. Just like with any type of Sun Magick, inviting the element of fire is connected to the solar plexus chakra, so spending time outdoors in the sunlight can have powerful healing effects and enhance vitality.
Conclusion
Our journey of solar plexus healing offers a profound opportunity for self-discovery and personal transformation. By engaging in practices that heal, activate, and balance the solar plexus chakra, you can address issues of confidence, self-esteem, and personal power. Whether through meditation, yoga, breathwork, or other holistic approaches, the process involves tapping into the vibrant energy of the solar plexus, represented by the warm and invigorating color yellow. As the chakra becomes harmonized, a renewed sense of empowerment and assurance emerges, allowing us to navigate life with greater clarity, purpose, and resilience.
Solar plexus healing is not merely a metaphysical concept but a practical and holistic endeavor, encouraging everyone to embrace their inner strength and assertiveness. Ultimately, by cultivating a balanced solar plexus chakra, you can step into a more confident and authentic expression of yourself, contributing to a harmonious and fulfilling life journey.
