There is a fire that exists inside each and every one of us. Whether you choose to ignite this fire and let it fuel your passions and your purpose is completely up to you. I encourage you to choose to burn bright.
This week we are discussing the third chakra, where our inner fire, power, and confidence are housed.
What are Chakras?
We all have seven chakras, or “energy centers,” in our bodies. You have probably seen an image with a person sitting in a meditative seat which brightly colored circles of light along the midline of their body, or you may have heard your yoga teachers, massage therapists, or holistic healers use terms like “nodes,” “nadis,” “energy vortexes,” or “wheels of energy.”
Each of the chakras are a vortex of energy, beginning at the base of your pelvis and ending at the crown of your head. We often have one or multiple chakras that are under-active or overly-active, so the point is to find balance. When we stop and think about it, that’s the whole point of life, right? To find balance.
There are colors, aromas, yoga poses, breathing exercises, and healing foods that correspond to each chakra. Study this infographic for more information on each chakra.
The Third Chakra
The third chakra—called the “solar plexus” or “manipura”—is where you feel butterflies in your tummy when you get nervous. It’s the “pit of your stomach.” This chakra is all about who you are, your confidence, and your inner power. Although all seven chakras are equally important, this space between the navel and your solar plexus houses something special. It’s where all your power resides.
This chakra is known as the “lustrous gem” and is represented by the color yellow. A few yoga poses used to activate and balance this chakra are Bow Pose, Warrior I and II, Full Wheel, and Kundalini exercises.
Daily Affirmation for Manipura
I know who I am and where I am going in life.
I am confident and powerful.
I am unstoppable.
I am fearless.
I am love.
Photo by Flickr user cyberpunk65.
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Zuzu Perkal is an independent artist, photographer, yoga instructor, and adventure enthusiast in Austin, Texas. Her days are filled with coffee, paint, and daydreams. She believes mistakes are simply a beautiful opportunity for growth and that our own life experiences serves as our most valuable teachers. Zuzu recently graduated from Wanderlust’s first Teacher Training Program and is on a mission to continually expand her consciousness while following her journey down the yogic path. She is currently experimenting with the concept of a floating yoga studio and mixed medium practice.