A Sense of Self

If one lacks motivation, drive or will power, suffers from an inferiority complex or a sense of guilt, is unable to assess one’s strength and weakness or has digestive problem, there is the possibility that one’s Manipura chakra is not functioning properly. Manipura, the ‘jewel-city’ chakra, also called the navel or power chakra, corresponds to the solar plexus, and is the seat of individuality at all levels of being: physical, etheric, astral, mental and causal. It is pervaded by samana vayu, equalising breath, that lies between prana vayu in the chest and apana vayu in the pelvis. Manipura chakra is represented as a downward-pointing red triangle inside a circle, surrounded by 10 petals emblematic of the 10 forms of prana that pervade the body. The simplest way to balance the navel point is to lie down on the stomach, putting a rolled piece of cloth under the navel, and relax for 5-10 minutes. Another method is to sit and press the navel with fingertips of both hands, for a few minutes, and breathe slowly. Both these exercises should be done on an empty stomach. Yogasanas like standing pose, twisting pose, forward-bend pose and back-bend pose are useful in managing loss of appetite, diabetes, obesity or metabolic syndrome, caused by the slow functioning of Manipura chakra. Aerobic exercises, horse-riding, sit-ups, games and physical activities also boost its functioning. An empowered and balanced Manipura chakra promotes physical and mental stamina, lights up the spirit, and helps one to rediscover oneself.

Source: Economic Times, 20/11/2018