Manipura: The third chakra. Complete guide to willpower, self-esteem, and harmonization methods

Chakras are energetic centers in a person that govern physical, emotional, and mental well-being. There are seven primary chakras in the human subtle body, each responsible for specific aspects of life.

Manipura, or the third chakra, plays a key role in shaping personal power, self-esteem, internal motivation, and the capacity for action. A balanced state of this chakra is the foundation of confidence, self-discipline, and the achievement of goals.

This chakra is called Manipuraka, and it is indeed the best ower of salvation.

Skanda Purana, Chapter 254: Tandava - The Dance of Sankara

When translated from Sanskrit, "Manipura" (मणिपूर) means 'city of jewels,' 'lustrous gem.' The word is composed of two parts: "mani" - 'jewel, pearl'; "pura" - 'city, place, receptacle.'

Location: area of the solar plexus, between the navel and the sternum.

Traditionally, Manipura is associated with the color yellow (the color of Surya), but these conceptions do not always align with the ancient texts.

The Fire element situated at the navel is triangular in shape, blazing red like a ladybug. It is associated with Rudra, and its bija (seed syllable) is ram...

Gheranda Samhita, Chapter 3, Verse 75

The Manipura chakra is located in the solar plexus region, and its element is fire. It is no coincidence that this very area is closely associated with the Tibetan technique of Tummo — the yoga of inner fire.

Balance the fluctuations of red and white at the navel center and the mind will be illuminated with realization, experiencing warmth as bliss.

Milarepa

Roles and responsibilities of the Manipura chakra

• Governing self-esteem and confidence.
• Developing willpower and determination.
• Enabling decision-making and goal attainment.
• Regulating emotional responses.
• Managing health and the digestive system.
• Converting inner energy into outward action.

Signs of the blocked Manipura

• Physical symptoms:
  • Digestive disorders: gastritis, ulcers in the gastrointestinal tract, irritable bowel syndrome;
  • Metabolic disorders, diabetes;
  • Weakness, lethargy, chronic fatigue;
  • Pancreatic dysfunction.
• Emotional manifestations:
  • Greed manifested in both material and energetic forms;
  • Tendency towards hoarding/accumulation;
  • Imposing one's own point of view as the only correct one;
  • Lack of motivation.
• Mental signs:
  • Excessive attention to one's own "self";
  • Lack of inspiration and loss of life motivation;
  • Problems with focus and unclear goal-setting.

The blocked Manipura deprivesa person of energy, willpower, and self-belief. They become passive, easily influenced, and lose control over their emotions.

Harmonization of the third chakra, Manipura, requires a holistic approach that integrates work with the body, attention, breathing, and mindset.

• Affirmations for self-empowerment

  Repeating positive affirmations helps reprogram your inner dialogue and build core confidence:

  • "I am confident in myself";
  • "I am worthy of respect and love";
  • "I am capable of taking action and achieving my goals".

  Repeat these daily, either aloud or mentally, to set a powerful intention you're your day, especially in the morning.

• Yoga poses to activate the Manipura

  Asanas that target the solar plexus region, building heat and personal power:

  • Navasana (Boat pose);
  • Urdhva Mukha Svanasana (Upward-facing dog);
  • Dhanurasana (Bow pose);
  • Agnisara Kriya;
  • Uddiyana Bandha.

• Pranayamas (Breathing techniques)

  • Kapalabhati (Skull-shining breath);
  • Bhastrika (Bellows breath).

  These breathing techniques activate the inner fire and increase the flow of energy.

• Meditation

  During meditation, focus your awareness on your solar plexus area. Visualize a bright, yellow sun at your core, radiating warmth, strength, and confidence throughout your entire body.

• Healing visualization

  A powerful technique is to visualize a brilliant, golden light emanating from the center of your solar plexus. Imagine this light filling your entire body, activating the chakra and restoring your energetic balance.

• Color therapy

  The color yellow directly resonates with Manipura. To harness its energy:

  • Incorporate yellow clothing into your wardrobe;
  • Decorate your workspace with yellow accents.

• Aromatherapy

  Use invigorating essential oils to stimulate the third chakra, such as:

  • lemon;
  • ginger;
  • grapefruit.

• Diet for thestrong Manipura

  Nourish your solar plexus chakra with warm, stimulating, and high-vibration foods:

  • Spices: Ginger, turmeric, chili, etc;
  • Whole grains: Oats, brown rice, quinoa;
  • Yellow foods: Pumpkin, corn, pineapple, citrus fruits;
  • Healthy fats: Ghee (clarified butter);
  • Herbal teas: Chamomile, fennel.

  Avoid overeating. Practice mindful eating with gratitude and respect for your body's nourishment.

• Building willpower and discipline

  A stong will is a hallmark of the balanced Manipura. Develop it by:

  • Setting clear, achievable goals;
  • Forming consistent, healthy habits;
  • Keep a journal of your achievements;
  • Cultivating the discipline to finish what you start.

Manipura is your energetic center of personal power, self- confidence, will, and the ability to take action. A blockage in this chakra can significantly impact your health, self-esteem, and overall quality of life. The simple, accessible practices outlined above — yoga, breathwork, affirmations, and mindful body awareness — provide a powerfull tool kit to harmonize Manipura and reclaim your inner strength.

By developing the third chakra, you become the master of your life: able to think clearly, make decisive choices, and confidently move toward your goals.

Important note: Before beginning any new energy work or yogic practices, it is highly recommended to consult with a qualified yoga instructor or somatic therapist.