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Today we will be exploring the manipura chakra. This is the energetic centre of the body, and represents strength, power, confidence, and determination. Signs of imbalance include feelings of inferiority, low self-confidence, difficulty with decision making (underactive) and superiority, authority, aggressiveness, and anger issues (overactive).
This quote from Eleanor Roosevelt is a great one, especially coming from a female historical figure! On the one hand Eleanor Roosevelt was rather privileged as a president's wife, but on the other, she was still a woman and therefore seen as less-than.
I think this quote is still spot on. How we feel about ourselves is ultimately an inside job. As social creatures, we are greatly impacted by the people around us and our culture, but we do have the power to determine and change how we feel about ourselves. We can validate ourselves without searching for it elsewhere when we begin to know our own true nature.
The manipura chakra call us to tap into our internal source of energy, strength, courage, and determination to help us put our dreams and intentions into action.
You can use "power poses" to help your body signal to your brain that you are feeling powerful. Try a wide legged standing forward fold with your hands on your hips (super woman!). The warrior poses (virabhadrasana I, II, and III) are also a great choice.
What actions or activities make you feel strong and powerful? Reflect on this and let me know in the comments below!
Check out a manipura-inspired yoga nidra (guided meditation) below: