The Solar Plexus Chakra is similar to the first (base) and second (sacral) chakras in that it primarily relates to a physical form of power. Where the base chakra resonates to group or tribal power, the sacral resonates to the power of flow between the self and others, this third chakra relates to our own personal power and assists in the process of individualisation and the forming of “self”.

As we develop a sense of self (usually during our early formative years), the intuitive voice of our solar plexus becomes our natural and constant source of guidance. How we feel about ourselves and whether we treat ourselves with love and respect can determine the quality of our life and our capacity to succeed. If we are unable to like and respect ourselves, we become incapable of making healthy decisions and can hand our personal power over to the hands of someone else.

People who have a low sense of self-esteem attract relationships and occupations that reflect and reinforce this weakness. Self-understanding, acceptance and the bond we form with ourselves is therefore one of the most crucial spiritual challenges that we face.

In Hindu the name “Manipura” has been given, which translates to “lustrous gem” because it shines bright like the sun. Like the sun, this fire in our belly within gives us vitality and sparks action. If we are not loving with ourselves by giving ourselves the room to breathe, explore, to make mistakes, then we have no air for the fire to burn and can become cold and despondent.  The element associated with this chakra is “fire”.