Solar Plexus Chakra, Manipura, 3rd Yellow Chakra Meaning 1280x960

Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipura Chakra):
Healing, Meditation, Meaning, Stones & Crystals

  • Motto: I Do
  • Mantra: RAM
  • Color: Yellow
  • Element: Fire
  • Zodiac Signs: Aries, Leo and Sagittarius

Ever watch those Saturday Morning cartoons? Especially anime watch a superhero type power up and often you’ll see a light expand from the center out. That’s the Third Chakra talking! In Sanskrit, it’s called Manipura, which translates to City of Gems, and it’s located right at the Solar Plexus. (That’s a group of nerves right around the abdomen and navel.) The chakra itself goes right up to the breastbone. And see that word Solar in Solar Plexus? That keys you to the importance of the Third Chakra: it’s the PowerHouse, where we keep our personal power, our self-esteem, and the energy to change and transform the world with our Warrior Energy.

Solar Plexus Chakra Table of Contents

Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipura Chakra) Symbolism & Meaning

What is the Solar Plexus Chakra

What is the Solar Plexus chakra? When you think Solar Plexus, think FIRE, which is the element associated with this charka. The color is yellow/gold, which is why it has strong ties to the Sun in all its glory.

The Solar Plexus chakra houses your sense of self and belonging. When you seek to cultivate your purpose, identity, and true self, meditate on what Solar Plexus chakra is. This is your will. If you can think it, you can manifest it. This chakra is the transformative hub where energy moves toward your goals and fulfills your soul’s contract in this incarnation.

You know those gut feelings? Those originate in the Solar Plexus chakra. Pay attention to them. The desire for recognition also sparks here. When you’ve worked hard, remained focused, and accomplished something, it’s natural to have the Solar Plexus chakra say, “Hey, how about a high-5?”

How do you tell if your Solar Plexus chakra is out of whack?

Sometimes, when you learn about “what is the Solar Plexus chakra,” it helps to know how it affects your daily life. When this chakra has blockage, there’s a sense that you cannot change anything (so why bother trying). Life stagnates, along with your dreams. This makes you angry, and you’re prone to lash out.

There’s a neediness you don’t normally experience. You’re afraid and have little confidence in yourself for much of anything. You may find yourself tongue-tied frequently. The words are in your mind but simply don’t come out correctly.

The Role of the Fire Element

Where the Sacral chakra was Water, the Solar Plexus chakra is all aflame. Fire represents the life force. Fire illuminates the darkness wherever it hides. It’s hot, motivational, spirited, and vibrant. This is the radiance of your consciousness.

Chakra Progression

The Solar Plexus chakra is the third in the series of 7 energy centers with progressive meanings. Your Root chakra was all about grounding and connection with your Tribe. The second chakra, the Sacral chakra, encompasses your willingness to both give and receive. Now we come to the Solar Plexus chakra that speaks of self-love and self care.

Where is the Solar Plexus Chakra?

Count four fingerbreadths above your naval. You’ll land just below your rib cage (sternum). This placement is why your stomach may get upset when your Solar Plexus chakra isn’t healthy. It’s a sign your internal gas gauge is hitting close to zero.

What is the Solar Plexus Chakra Responsible For

In Ayurvedic medicine, the Solar Plexus chakra is responsible for the functioning of specific organs, including the liver and pancreas. But the Solar Plexus chakra is also responsible for your fight or flee instinct. Effectively, this chakra mediates how you respond to stress and pressure.

What else is the Solar Plexus Chakra responsible for? Your sense of strength or fear. When you have to deal with trauma, the Solar Plexus chakra is where you process those feelings. When someone tries to suppress your individuality or be overly oppressive, your Solar Plexus responds, which is why your gut may feel like it’s in a knot.

The Manipura chakra is dynamic. It attracts and directs Prana, which is divided into five types. The first is located in the head, lungs, and heart. This energy turns our thoughts inward and upward, calming the mind.

Second is the Apana, which focuses on eliminating those things that are not healthy in the lower abdomen while absorbing things that are healthy (the digestive system). Udana comes third, stationed at the diaphragm and throat region.

This focuses on clarity, creativity, and memory.
Samana is at the naval, whirling around it like a never-ending wind. Samana aids in metabolism. Finally, Vyana prana comes from the heart outward to all parts of the body (the circulatory system).

When you are excited or happy, that’s associated with the Solar Plexus chakra. Your willpower, boldness, resolve, and self-esteem are all part of the Solar Plexus system. Your ability to set boundaries lies here as well. Stand in your truth.

Solar Plexus Chakra Meaning & Symbolism

The meaning of Manipura (shining gem or place) gives us the first hint about the Solar Plexus chakra’s meaning and symbolism. It is the shining fire within. Your drive and enthusiasm.
Our Third Chakra’s meaning is about action.

When this Chakra is literally booming on all cylinders, your leadership abilities shine. Goal setting and project completion are smooth sailing. You know who you are and where you belong.

Your competitive self is rarin’ to go without being unsportsmanlike. And if you’re into martial arts, the word “Hara” belongs here. Hara literally means abdomen, and it’s your power core, where your Warrior Awareness keeps its senses open for you about the world.

The third Chakra symbolizes the mental powerhouse: thinking about action as well as doing that action. Your thoughts are clear, your mind is sharp, your logic is sound, and you can follow the mental road from beginning to end.

It’s where your self-worth forms and flourishes. You DON’T need to compare yourself with others; what you are is what you want to be, and if not, there are clear paths on how to grow to your Optimal Self.

The Solar Plexus chakra, meaning and symbolism, is constantly learning, discerning, and judging things in the world around you. You’re alert and clear in your decision-making. People can’t push you around or move you out of the way.

You know how to digest the world well, so to speak, and gain nourishment from your actions. Nonetheless, this isn’t “ego.” Rather, knowing your self-worth and acknowledging that of others.

The solar plexus chakra helps grow your confidence and vitality. From here, you can begin creating the life you envision. In other words, the solar plexus chakra allows you to seize your personal power, develop the best version of yourself, and take responsibility for your life.

How to Heal The Solar Plexus Chakra

The Solar Plexus Chakra has a lot to do with the digestive system, the adrenal glands, the liver and kidneys, and nerves. If it’s our internal engine, it needs stoking that’s going at a solid level, not too hot and not too cold. The Solar Plexus chakra needs balance.

When it’s “sick,” we’re subject to all kinds of things: our digestion’s off, we get gas and nausea and ulcers. Blood sugar regulation goes kaput (that’s things like diabetes). Weight regulation gets dicey. Gaining or losing weight is tougher than it should be. Elimination becomes clogged: unhappy liver and kidneys. How else does the body eliminate?

Through the lungs! So lungs can have problems (asthma, anyone?). And since this is where nerves hang out, so to speak, you may develop fibromyalgia and related disorders.

With an unhealthy Third Chakra, you make poor decisions. You can’t stick to a choice once it’s made. Procrastination becomes your friend. Your ability to concentrate is out the window. Self-judgement says you’re either the Emperor of the World or something scraped off shoes.

There’s no in-between about it. You can’t figure out how to get from Point A to Point B on a project, even with a GPS and a Sherpa Guide.

What to do?

First and foremost, the Sun Is your best friend. SUN! Find a way to get outside and get at least 20-30 minutes of natural light every day. Even in the North, the sun DOES occasionally come out. Open those curtains!

And on the days when it’s overcast, try one of those full-spectrum/daylight-imitating lamps. Become a proverbial sun worshipper!

Burn yellow candles. Get some yellow bulbs and put them in your light fixtures (or at least a few). And don’t forget to eat your way toward healing your Third chakra.
Eating?

Yes. The energy in food becomes internalized. Think about lemons, yellow bell peppers, corn, mango, golden apples, summer squash, bananas, and pineapple! Food helpers include grains and things made from grains like bread, granola, and even pasta.

Dairy is also a big-time helper for Third Chakra issues. This is the perfect time for cheese dishes, tall milkshakes, and buttering your toast. As for herbs and spices, good choices include chamomile, cumin, fennel, ginger, peppermint (all mints, really) and turmeric.

Yes, wear yellow. If you’ve got a yellow vest, wear it. Yellow shirt, yellow tie, even a yellow rain slicker.

Bring your yellow rubber duckie into your hot bath, brimming with aromatherapy oils. You want bergamot, vetivert, lavender, clary sage, or Ylang Ylang.

Verbalize the healing process in the form of affirmation:

  • I stand in my power with clarity and assurance.
  • My mind is sharp, and my thinking clear.
  • I meet challenges with confidence in my abilities.
  • I create what I desire and manifest it now!

How to Unblock the Solar Plexus Chakra

It helps to know what blocks a chakra in order to find out how to unblock the solar chakra. Abuse is high on the list, even things that may not seem “abusive.” For example, you say how you feel, but someone dismisses it. Self-expression is part of a healthy Third chakra. Or, you try to correct a problem, and your partner claims the situation never happened (gaslighting).

Emotional scars can layer up over time and block that vital energy. The Third chakra is vital to your progress in mind, body, and spirit. When the Solar Plexus has blockage, life stagnates and becomes confusing.

So, learn how to unblock the Solar Plexus chakra. One relatively easy support for your Third chakra is aromatherapy. Scents are very powerful. They work on both your conscious and subconscious mind. Research shows, for example, that a bright, natural aroma like pine reduces anxiety.

You can use this concept to unblock your chakra. Recommended scents include bergamot, sandalwood, lemongrass, ginger, mandarine, and sandalwood. Burn incense, add aromatics to your bath water, or perhaps wear a dab as you might perfume. Just be careful, as some people have allergic reactions to essential oils.

Solar Plexus Affirmations

As with healing the Solar Plexus chakra, affirmations can help reverse negativity and begin the unblocking process.

  • In new undertakings, I will not be shaken. My mind remains focused.
  • I am pursuing my purpose confidently.
  • I will not give away my power.
  • I trust in my capabilities.
  • My responses will be metered and bold.
  • I will practice self-love and show myself grace.
  • I am the master of my destiny and can create change in my life.

It is worth noting the Solar Plexus chakra often carries deeply stored trauma from the past. Those experiences affect a person’s behavior and thoughts. While healthy activities for unblocking this chakra are excellent support systems, you may want to consider counseling as well.

Some people feel awkward about therapy. Don’t. You are taking steps toward healing the sacred self with the aid of a trained professional. There’s no shame in needing help.

How to Balance the Solar Plexus Chakra

Rather than being closed, our chakras can sometimes become unbalanced. Think of your car’s alignment. When it’s out, the car doesn’t move correctly. When left too long, improper alignment can lead to tire damage and suspension issues.

What about you? Is it time for a tune-up? Do you feel like your proverbial vehicle isn’t moving quite right? There’s a good chance your Third chakra is out of balance. Let’s look at three comparisons for clarification.

Healthy Third chakra: Leaves you feeling empowered and knowing your purpose.
Imbalanced Third chakra: You feel you have no control over your life. Your future is cloudy, and you find yourself asking the age-old question, “Why am I here?” repeatedly.

Healthy Third chakra: You know your value and believe in your skills.
Imbalance Third chakra: You let people take advantage of you and constantly trivialize your aptitudes.

Healthy Third chakra: You don’t depend on external sources for happiness
Imbalanced Third chakra: You become very needy.

There are a variety of ways to bring the Solar Plexus chakra back into balance, one of which is utilizing the Fire element as a trigger. Use candle gazing in your meditations, for example. Or, build yourself a bonfire and sit with the flames, becoming one with that source.

I spoke previously about getting in touch with the sun’s energy. It doesn’t have to be fancy. Lie down on your belly and let the warm solar beam permeate your skin. Turn over, close your eyes, and lift your face to the sun. Let all that warmth soothe your soul and your chakra!

Along similar lines, just like healing and unblocking, wearing yellow and eating yellow foods can contribute to balancing your chakra

If you are familiar with chanting, the term “Ram” is associated with the Third chakra. You can use it while meditating. This word embodies everything the Solar Plexus chakra symbolizes and its core vibrations.

Perhaps the most powerful way of balancing the Solar Plexus chakra is a change in the way you do things. How often do you say, “I have to?” The word “have” implies a must, a duty, an obligation, or even something you’re forced to do.

Replace those three words with, “I choose to.” Choice equals free will, resolution, and commitment..

How to Heal the Solar Plexus Chakra Naturally

How you define naturally is rather subjective. For the purpose of this article, it is anything that is not a chemical or invasive procedure.

To heal the Solar Plexus chakra naturally, you can begin by surrounding yourself with aromas known to vibrate with this energy center. Lemon, ginger, bergamot, cedar, and chamomile are good choices.
Look into using crystals (see later this article), or perhaps healing bowls.

But I find myself returning to the sun and heat. Walking in sunlight is active, and you can combine it with aromatherapy by wearing some suitable oil. Put on a yellow shirt while you’re at it.

There are also mindful approaches you can take that help with naturally healing the Solar Plexus chakra. Think of what this chakra represents – your power, your self-trust, your authenticity. Now, do small things or make small choices that align with those goals. Say “no” to an idea if you feel it’s outside your values.

Reach out to a person you’ve wanted to know; introduce yourself (be brave!). You don’t have to go over the top. Small, mindful actions matter.

How to Activate the Solar Plexus Chakra

You have absolutely no energy. If you could stay in bed with the curtains closed all day you would. The idea of being around people is irritating. Absolutely nothing interests you including your “favorite” activity. You have a Solar Plexus chakra that needs activation.

You can turn to Yoga for some ideas about how to activate the Solar Plexus chakra. There are three Yoga poses that will work on your PowerHouse: check out Bow, Bridge, and classic Sun Salutation asanas. These are a little difficult to describe in this format, but you can find excellent resources online.

What about visualization? Seeing is believing, right? Imagine the sun’s light in between your hands like a ball. Toss it back and forth to get its energy going, and then press it into your Solar Plexus Chakra. Feel its warmth, lighting you up inside; watch it fill every space, every cell. Then try walking around like a Sun Being, just radiating from within. Stay true to YOU.

Okay. It’s hard when you’re not motivated to try anything, but do you really want to keep feeling the way you do without an Active Third chakra? Sit still, breathe deeply, and prepare. Come out of the darkness. Once you’ve made it this far, it becomes easier to activate the chakra.

Try little things. Be proud of something you’ve done no matter how small. Release the negative ideas that do nothing but harm you. You are worthy of love, creativity, and zeal! Clear the path for transformation. If someone asks you to do something, you don’t have to just automatically jump to it. Measure your responses to others and to situations.

The more you trust your gut, the more your Solar Plexus chakra activates. While we might wish otherwise, energy centers aren’t like light bulbs. You can’t make it turn on with a flick of your mental switch. Have patience.

If there’s something you’ve always wanted to try or do, now is the time. Take that step away from whatever held you back. Sure, you might not be perfect the first time or the 100th time, but it’s the trying that matters. Let go of the fear of failure.

Grounding the Solar Plexus Chakra

When there’s an imbalance in your Solar Plexus chakra, your life may seem like it’s spinning out of control. If it’s overactive, the Third chakra disperses too much energy. In this cas you can seem cocky. You want control and no one can live up to your standards.

The reason for grounding the Solar Plexus chakra is pretty clear. You are simply not reflecting the best of yourself. You judge people quickly and harshly. Stubborn becomes your middle name. At its worst, an overactive Third chakra can bring out aggression and anger issues.

As you can imagine, no one likes you in this condition. You will notice people moving away to a safe space. You need to turn on the dimmer switch and restore harmony.

NOTE: When you ground a chakra, you do NOT turn it off. That would have similarly bad results, just different in the way they manifest. Rather, you just want to get the excess energy toned down.
While it may not seem obvious, activity helps.

When you run, play sports, or take hardy walks, you burn energy. The Solar Plexus chakra is your energy battery, so you’re helping disperse some of the surplus charge.

Meditation can help coral some of the heightened activity. And you can make it a moving meditation as part of your daily jaunt, for example. Hal! Spiritual multitasking.

Try new experiences. Step out of your comfort zone. Direct your attention to something you don’t know, like the back of your hand. Let your mind work off some energy, too.

Solar Plexus Chakra Affirmations

Contrary to what you may think, affirmations do not have to be spoken out loud. Thank goodness! People around you might raise an eyebrow or two. Thinking the words is just as powerful as writing them down repetitively.

In some ways, you’re becoming your own cheerleader, reminding yourself of the positives so they replace negative thought forms.

Here are some examples:

  • I trust in my power and purpose.
  • I am ready to face new challenges with confidence
  • I know my worth and believe in my skills
  • I have the ability to greet change graciously
  • I cannot control the outside world; I can control within
  • I welcome new ideals
  • I can validate myself, it need not come from others
  • Have the ambition to try again
  • I recognize I am fallible and forgive myself
  • I will integrate the lessons from my mistakes
  • I will persist and succeed
  • I am worthy
  • Only I can make myself happy
  • I love myself
  • My heart and mind are content
  • I am thankful
  • My journey is unique and important
  • I can manifest beauty
  • I am valued and value myself
  • I will dare to dream
  • I attract all good things into my life
  • I will overcome
  • I am whole

Solar Plexus Chakra Crystals & Stones

Each crystal and sacred stone has a unique voice and vibration. As such, certain ones work to support the health of the Solar Plexus Chakra.

Amber: An ancient stone filled with warmth and wisdom for decision-making.

Agate: A crystal of clarity and proactive choices.

Calcite: Zesty sums up this crystal with a side of charm for good measure.

Citrine: This yellow quartz actually looks like the sun! It clears negativity while amplifying confidence.

Golden Mookite: Keeps you connected to Prana’s flow.

Lemon Quartz: Brings a little laughter to wash away worry.

Pyrite: Pyrite means “fire” in Greek. When you struggle, you will find your “gold” in determination.

Sunstone: Healthy, bright, and balanced. Opens your center of communication.

Tiger’s Eye: Like the Third chakra, Tiger’s eye is strong, bold, and confident.

Yellow Jasper: Chases away negativity and worry.

Yellow Topaz: Clears the way of blockages so Chi flows freely.

Yellow Tourmaline: Stimulates your “get up and go”.

Solar Plexus Chakra Frequency

The Solar Plexus Chakra Frequency is 528hz. This vibration aids in decision-making based on personal values and truths. Some of the songs where 528 hz is predominant include:

  • AC/DC: Highway to Hell
  • Bach: Cello Suit 1 in C Major
  • Beetles: Let it Be.
  • Beethoven: Ode to Joy
  • Brahms Lullaby
  • Celine Dion: My Heart Will Go On
  • Creedence Clearwater Revival; Bad Moon Rising; Have You Ever Seen the Rain?
  • Deep Purple: Smoke on the Water
  • Eagles: Take it Easy
  • Elton John: More than a Feeling
  • Elvis Presley: Jailhouse Rock
  • Fleetwood Mac: Go Your Own Way
  • Guns and Roses: You Could Be Mine
  • John Legend: All of Me
  • John Lennon: Imagine
  • Lynyrd: Skynrd: Sweet Home Alabama
  • Mozart: Sonata in C Major
  • Vivaldi: The Four Seasons: Spring
  • And, while not on the list, we cannot discount “Here Comes the Sun” by the Beetles.

Solar Plexus Chakra Meditation

Get comfortable and breathe deeply. When you are completely relaxed, visualize a golden color where your Solar Plexus lies. It radiates like the sun. In this moment, you and creation are one. Envision yourself standing tall in that light, achieving your most sacred goals.

To this basic meditation, you could add mantras, affirmations, or mudras

Solar Plexus Chakra Mudra

The Rudra Mudra is the one most commonly used to activate the Manipura Chakra. After all, this particular Mudra represents the Fire Element. It broadens your spiritual vision to touch the Cosmos. The Rudra Mudra brings peace, joy, and calmness.

To create this hand gesture, begin with your ring finger, thumb, and index finger, all coming in contact. It’s that simple.

How to Open the Solar Plexus Chakra

Once you acknowledge the existence of chakras in your personal space, you’ll want to know how to keep them working to the best of their ability. In this case, the focus is on how to open the Solar Plexus chakra.

It is not as complicated as you may think. For example, a good physical workout can have a fantastic impact on the Third chakra. As you go, keep in mind your body’s awareness keen and spiritual connection firm. Intention matters.

You can also try a breath exercise. Take a deep breath through your nose. Expand your belly out. Then, follow with several forceful breaths out through your mouth. Seems simple enough, but it helps tone the muscles where the Solar Plexus resides.

Three words: Apple cider vinegar (no joke). Some people swear by it to cleanse the body and improve digestion (the Third chakra). The counsel is drinking it with warm water 20 minutes before eating. A sluggish digestive system can lead to a similarly sluggish mind. This practice is intended to fix that issue.

On a less dramatic level, journal, paint, and do those things that make you feel good about yourself. What do you know intimately? This is where you’ve overcome fear and see your gifts with clarity. Celebrate it. Make intentional choices.

Solar Plexus Chakra Symbol

The Symbol for the Solar Plexus begins with a 10-petaled lotus and a downward-pointing triangle. Each of the ten petals represents a trait one must overcome to fully activate the Third chakra.

  • Spiritual ignorance
  • Fear
  • Envy
  • Disloyalty
  • Shame
  • Yearnings
  • Hatred
  • Delusion
  • Foolishness
  • Sadness

      • Whew! Tall order.

      The red triangle in the Solar Plexus chakra symbol represents fire; the essence of each person’s strength and power.

      In Sanskrit, the name for the triangle is Tejas, which means sharpness. Regarding our understanding, this could apply to sharpness of wit.

      Physical Symptoms of Solar Plexus Chakra Opening

      If you are working along on your chakras, you may wonder what the physical symptoms of the solar plexus chakra. The biggest one is a jump in your overall vibrancy.

      You have energy plus. If you were having tummy troubles, they dissipate. Your metabolism improves, as does your ability to go the mile.

      Emotionally, you will be in far more control. There’s no uncertainty about who you are and where you are going. Acting on hopes and dreams long put aside is common.

      You won’t mind taking small risks because you trust in yourself and your decisions.