Third Chakra

3rd Chakra

"Manipura" is the Sanskrit name for the 3rd chakra. This word means "lustrous gem." The 3rd chakra is located in the area of the solar plexus, navel and digestive system. It is associated with power, self-esteem and vitality. It is the seat of the intellect.

Glands/organs associated with the 3rd chakra:

• Pancreas, organs of digestion (small intestine)
• When the 3rd chakra is imbalanced, there may be digestive problems.

The element for the 3rd chakra is fire. When there is too much heat in this part of the body, there can be digestive problems. All of the "itis" diseases begin in this chakra when the fire gets out of control.

Bikram yoga (hot yoga) stimulates the 3rd chakra. Be sure that this chakra needs stimulation before participating in Bikram yoga.

The colors for the 3rd chakra are yellow and gold.

The emotion for the 3rd chakra is anger.

The sense for the 3rd chakra is sight and cognitive thinking. Remember, the intellect lies here. Sometimes people refer to a "gut feeling" when they are trying to figure something out.

When the 3rd chakra is excessive, anger, hatred, too much attention to power, status and recognition can be present. In yoga, passive backbends are good for calming an excessive 3rd chakra.

When it is deficient, one can have digestive problems, eating disorders, low self-esteem and a feeling of powerlessness. In yoga, do Sun Salutations, half boat pose, warrior and twists to energize the 3rd chakra.