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The Chakras are energy vortices of the energy body that comprise part of the energy system. When perfectly open and balanced, one is lead to the experience of a harmonious reality, connection to the Oneness in everything, and ultimately to union with the Divine Consciousness.
Manipura (The Solar Plexus Chakra)
The Solar Plexus Chakra, or Manipura, is also called, manipuraka, dashapatra, dashadala, padma, dashapatrambuja, dashachchada, nabhi, nabhipadma and nabhipankaja. This chakra is traditionally located at the navel (hence the name of the nabhi or navel chakra) because traditionalists believe the Solar Plexus refers to a distinct minor chakra.
In the Indian Tantric tradition, Manipura - ‘place of gems’ or ‘shining like a pearl’ - has ten red petals, with a downward-pointing triangle, representing the element of Fire at the centre; however, in most modern chakra layouts it is placed at the Solar Plexus as a major chakra, with its ten petals shown in gold or yellow.
The Functions of Manipura
Diverse cultures around the world have revered the energy symbolised by the sun. Solar deities, usually masculine in nature, include Ra (Egyptian), Inti (Inca), Tonatiuih (Aztec), Ku-kuul-kaan (Maya), Mithras/Sol (European) and Vishnu/Indra (Hindu). Manipura’s element, not surprisingly, is fire. In Hindu tradition Agni is associated with fire and lightning together with the fearful goddess Kali, who often has tongues of flame coming from her mouth. Think of Manipura as the sun in your body. It draws in solar radiance as a type of prana and transduces it into a form that enables the flow of vital energies throughout the physical body to be regulated. It is a gathering point for lines of subtle energy, the nadis, which control all bodily functions, as well as being a powerful physical nerve plexus. The great Indian sage Patanjali says that through the control of Manipura full knowledge and mastery of the body are achieved.
The meanings of the ten petals are: spiritual ignorance; thirst; jealousy; treachery; shame; fear; disgust; delusion; foolishness; and sadness. All these are aspects to overcome at this chakra level before proceeding to work on purifying the Heart Chakra. It is important to note that the three major chakras below the heart are principally concerned with the physical body and the world we perceive with our senses, whereas those above the heart are of a more spiritual nature.
Source: The Chakra Bible by Patricia Mercier
Main Characteristics at a Glance
Colour: Yellow
Key Issues: Power, fear, anxiety, introspection
Physical Location: Between the navel and the bottom of the sternum
Associated Spinal area: 7th and 8th thoracic vertebrae
Physiological System: Metabolic/digestive
Endocrine Gland: Islets of Langerhans (cells in the pancreas)
Nerve Plexus: Solar Plexus
Inner Aspect: Opinion and personal power
Physical Action: Digestion
Mental Action: Power
Emotional Action: Expansiveness
Spiritual Action: Growth