The Solar Plexus Chakra – Centre of Willpower, Identity & Inner Fire
Overview of the Solar Plexus Chakra
The Solar Plexus Chakra, known in Sanskrit as Manipura (meaning “lustrous gem”), is the third primary energy centre in the chakra system. Located in the upper abdomen, it governs our sense of personal power, confidence, and self-worth. It is the energetic seat of the will—the flame that fuels our ability to take action, make decisions, and show up in the world with strength and clarity.
When the Solar Plexus is balanced, we radiate self-belief, inner discipline, and aligned ambition. We are able to trust our instincts, stand firm in our boundaries, and manifest our desires without dominating others. When imbalanced, we may feel powerless, self-doubting, overcontrolling, or trapped in cycles of shame or procrastination.
Manipura is the fire that transforms inertia into action. It is the chakra of courage, confidence, and commitment—the flame that reminds us we are capable, sovereign, and worthy of success.
Location & Element
- Location: Upper abdomen, around the stomach and diaphragm
- Element: Fire
- Colour: Yellow (symbolising energy, intellect, and vitality)
- Sense: Sight – vision, perception, and mental clarity
- Mantra: "RAM" (pronounced “rum”)
Key Functions & Themes
- Personal power and self-discipline
- Confidence and willpower
- Decision-making and goal-setting
- Energy regulation and digestion
- Boundaries, autonomy, and leadership
Signs of a Balanced Solar Plexus Chakra
- Strong sense of self and identity
- Confidence to act on ideas and follow through
- Healthy motivation, focus, and emotional resilience
- Inner strength that is assertive but not aggressive
- Trust in one’s personal choices and life path
Imbalances of the Solar Plexus Chakra
- Underactive: Low self-esteem, fatigue, indecisiveness, lack of ambition, fear of failure, passivity
- Overactive: Domineering tendencies, need for control, perfectionism, anger issues, judgemental attitude
Physical symptoms may affect the digestive system, including ulcers, bloating, liver imbalances, adrenal fatigue, or poor metabolism. Emotional wounds often stem from criticism, rejection, humiliation, or disempowering life experiences.
Healing the Solar Plexus Chakra
Solar Plexus healing calls us to reconnect with our inner strength and remember our ability to direct our own life. Healing modalities include:
- Core work: Strengthening the abdominal area with yoga, martial arts, or breathwork
- Affirmations and mirror work: Speaking powerfully to yourself with phrases like “I am enough” or “I choose confidence”
- Sunlight exposure: Soaking in natural light to energise this chakra
- Crystals: Citrine, Yellow Calcite, Tiger Eye, Golden Healer Quartz, Pyrite
- Journaling prompts: “When do I feel most powerful?” “What am I afraid to step into?”
Solar Plexus Chakra and the Emotional Body
This chakra governs our emotional response to success, challenge, and authority. It shapes how we react to pressure, competition, or judgement. Emotional wounds stored here often relate to powerlessness, failure, rejection, or fear of visibility.
When healed, the Solar Plexus becomes a source of quiet confidence—not needing external validation, but anchored in deep self-belief. It becomes easier to say no, to lead with clarity, and to set powerful intentions.
Spiritual Significance of the Solar Plexus Chakra
Spiritually, Manipura is the fire of transformation. It is the inner forge where the ego is purified into healthy self-mastery. It teaches the sacred balance between free will and surrender. As this chakra awakens, we learn to align our personal will with divine will.
Solar Plexus activation strengthens our energetic boundaries, empowering us to stay sovereign in our energy and decisions while still holding compassion. It is the throne of embodied leadership, courage, and integrity.
Affirmations for the Solar Plexus Chakra
- I am confident, powerful, and full of energy.
- I act with purpose and trust in my decisions.
- I honour my boundaries and speak with clarity.
- I radiate inner strength and self-respect.
Solar Plexus Chakra Archetypes
- The Warrior: Fearless, disciplined, purposeful, and strong in their truth
- The Leader: Inspires others with integrity and vision
- The Achiever: Uses ambition as a sacred tool of growth and contribution
When to Focus on the Solar Plexus Chakra
You may feel called to strengthen this chakra when:
- You feel disempowered, scattered, or directionless
- You struggle with self-confidence or decision-making
- You’re afraid of visibility, leadership, or setting boundaries
- You’re ready to step into a higher version of yourself
- You want to awaken the fire of discipline and personal growth
Integration & Daily Practices
- Spend 10 minutes each morning visualising a golden flame in your belly centre
- Speak one empowering truth about yourself aloud each day
- Take bold, small steps toward something that previously scared you
- Wear or meditate with yellow crystals like Citrine or Pyrite
- Engage in exercise that activates your core and builds strength
Final Reflection
The Solar Plexus Chakra is your energetic sun—the source of radiance, power, and presence. It calls you to stand tall in your worth, to ignite your will, and to shine without shrinking. When your inner fire is strong, you move through life with purpose, grace, and the knowing that you are the author of your reality. This is the sacred gift of Manipura: to turn self-doubt into sovereignty and fear into fuel for your highest expression.