The 3rd Chakra, Manipura, is associated with the color yellow. Its name means ‘lustrous gem.’ Located in the area of the navel and digestive system, it is involved in self-esteem, warrior energy and the power of transformation. It governs our digestion and metabolism. It helps our motivation, determination and willpower, and supports us in overcoming inertia, jump-starting our get-up-and-go attitude so that we have the courage to act and take risks, assert our will, create change, and assume responsibility for our life.
Digestive problems, eating disorders, feeling like a victim or experiencing low self-esteem can all be indications of a deficient 3rd chakra. When we feel disempowered or in need of re-energizing, we do 3rd chakra poses that fan the flames of our inner fire and restore vitality: sun salutations, warrior poses, abdominal strengtheners and twists (good for digestion).
Perfectionism, anger, hatred and too much emphasis on power, status and recognition reveal an excessive 3rd chakra. To cool off the belly’s fire we do gentler, more passive backbending postures, anything that will create a little space in the abdominal area and stretch out those abdominal muscles: cobras, upward dogs, melting heart/puppy pose, bridge pose, etc.
I hope all of you who attended our 3rd chakra classes last week left feeling more connected to your inner strength and personal power, and better able to go out into the world and achieve your highest potential!
P.S. Above is a picture of the chakra bracelet that the Bead Brat, Sue Doyle, made me in honor of our “Balancing Your Chakras” session. It is made with Swarovski crystals and silver. She is selling them for only $15. It is definitely helping to remind me to put into practice all the qualities that we are focusing on during our chakra classes each week. If you would like to place a special order for one please let me know.