3rd Chakra: Transformation

"The greatest illusion of the New Age is that awareness alone heals. Believe me, awareness by itself does nothing! Putting the healing process in motion requires a regular spiritual practice and discipline not just exercise and clean living."
– Caroline Myss

Sushumna in Yoga or Sumana in Thai is considered to be the home of the Chakras. The Chakras are located along the spine like a ‘super highway’ or a channel connecting one to another. Because of where the Chakras are located we can feel there influence over our entire nervous and endocrine systems. The alignment of the spine will help form the shape of the body and determine the openness of each Chakra i.e.; a collapsed chest, ventral drag or rolled in shoulders may indicate an imbalance in the core or 3rd chakra. It is possible to open and balance the Chakras by bringing more awareness and flexibility to the spine.

Manipura is the Sanskrit name of the 3rd Chakra, meaning ‘lustrous gem’. It is located between the navel and the lower ribs, and is often referred to as the solar plexus. It connects us to the pancreas, digestion and our musculature. This chakra is closely related to the element of fire and is expressed through the color yellow. It is here in the 3rd Chakra we understand power, assertiveness, will and transformation. We learn how to overcome inertia, liberate ourselves from fixed patterns and create new behavior. This chakra asks: Do I take time to develop and maintain my own personal power? Do I feel empowered by the choices I make? Do I feel excited about life? Do I feel confidant?

Contemplation and movement can help to clear toxins, raise your internal fire and stimulate the ascending current. Keep these questions in mind as you explore the strength of your solar plexus with the following asanas or postures.

Breath of Fire
This is a pranayama or breathing exercise to help clear toxins from the body. Start sitting in a comfortable position on the floor or in a chair. Rest your hands over your solar plexus. Use your diaphragm to vigorously pump your exhale out your nose. Focus on the exhalation, your body will naturally inhale without force. Repeat this breath several times (perhaps 10-30) quickly until you feel the heat rising. Pause and take deep breaths if you feel dizzy.

The Woodchopper
Stand with your feet about hip width apart, knees soft, hands interlaced over your head, and back slightly arched. As you exhale swing your hands and arms down and in between your legs. Repeat several times. If you like you can make a loud ‘ah’ sound as you exhale and swing downwards. Feel the power of release as you do this.

Bow Pose
Lay on your stomach with your hands down by your side. Bend your knees and reach for your ankles. As you inhale lift your head and pull the ankles backwards to lift your chest and to balance on your belly. Breathe deeply pressing the belly into the ground. Allow your shoulders to relax and your chest to open to the ceiling. Feel the internal fire growing as you try this.