Moving on to the 3rd chakra. The solar plexus.

It is located about two to three inches above the navel area and just below our diaphragm. The solar plexus chakra is connected with the fire element. The associated glands are the pancreas, and adrenal glands and the related body parts are the digestive systems, the liver, the gallbladder, the stomach and the small intestine.  The associated colour is Yellow.

The solar plexus is responsible for those butterfly feelings we get when we’re excited or nervous. Physical problems that are related to the solar plexus are ALL digestive problems, dysfunction of the liver, diabetes, IBS, stomach ulcers and eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia.

The solar plexus represents our Will, our creativity, our vitality – our get up and go.
I’ve often referred to it as ‘my ego’, it is my own personal power. This can often be misused, and it shows itself when we mistreat others by being dominating or critical.

Also, a lack of self-confidence and self-esteem problems, as well as low self-worth, are often signs of an unbalanced solar plexus. Although having an awareness of this is beneficial, it would be silly to expect a quick fix by just balancing the solar plexus. Low self-esteem and self-worth are often deep-rooted problems that stretch far back and need more work than a quick chakra balance, counselling would be most beneficial. That’s not to say though that working on your solar plexus chakra won’t help.

When I first started working with the solar plexus chakra, I learnt how to breathe properly. Breathing fully, from down in the belly, filling the lungs and slowly exhaling is a good way of opening the solar plexus area. Our breathing is often very shallow and restrictive, try practising by breathing in for the count of 3, 5 or 7 and making the exhale longer than the inhale. Don’t get out of breath, go with your own natural rhythm. Making sure we eat the right food is very important for this chakra, you can see why when you look at the associated physical problems. Toning is also very good exercise. Toning is where we use our voice to balance our body.

Crystals that work well with the solar plexus are those of the same associated colour. My favourites being Citrine, Amber and Pyrite.