Throat Chakra

The Throat Chakra symbol is a sixteen-petaled lotus with a downward-pointing triangle and a central circle..... representing purity, communication, and self-expression. 

The Sanskrit word Chakra means “wheel” or “circle”. In the body, it refers to energy centres that influence our physical, mental, and spiritual consciousness. 

The Sanskrit word Vishuddhi means "to purify". In yoga, the centre of consciousness located in the throat/neck region is associated with the element of Space or Ether and is known as Vishuddha. It connects to the mouth, jaw, tongue pharynx; as well as thyroid gland which regulates metabolic processes. It is also associated with sound, language and our listening faculty. The organ of knowledge is the ears and the organ of action is the vocal chords. It is associated with higher discrimination, intellect, creativity, musicality and self-expression. Excessive stress and deep feelings of guilt/shame are primary reasons for the flow of truth to contract within the throat centre.  

Balanced throat chakra

• Being able to speak naturally and share truth as it is experienced

• Clear and effective communication and being able to listen and empathise

• Creative and musical self-expression

• Balanced breath with even and smooth inhalation & exhalation

• Sense of freedom and joy in realising life’s purpose

Imbalanced throat chakra

• Speaking excessively or inappropriately and/or inability to listen to others

• Fear of speaking and/or talking with a quiet, weak or unstable voice

• Problems singing in pitch

• Difficulty expressing thoughts and feelings, and/or unable to share your truth

• Problems associated with the neck and throat

How to balance throat chakra

• Sing! Laugh! Play!

• Cultivate that which brings a felt sense of SAFETY and belonging

• Be kind and GENTLE with yourself

• Grounding, earthing and sounding in nature

• Whistle, sigh, hum, tone, create playful sounds

• Kirtan, prayer and mantra repetition

• Maintain HOPE for the future and GRATITUDE for what is present

• CHANT the seed sound हं haṃ  to open and strengthen throat chakra

• Perform specific YOGA poses & breathwork which direct awareness to throat and neck (throat lock, Ujjayi breath, shoulder stand etc)

• Aromatherapy with pure essential oils 

Create your own affirmations & sing out aloud with feeling and intention eg:

• I voice my truth with comfort and ease

• I feel seen and heard.

• I speak with clarity and authenticity

• I release all tension from my voice and express who I am