The Throat Chakra
Fifth Chakra - Vishuddha
Expression
The fifth chakra, Vishudda, located in the throat region, connects us to our expressive self, reinforcing communication, speech and healing. When off-balance there may be issues of self-expression, fear of no power or control. When in balance, we can express our truth without worrying about what others may think.
Location: Throat
Colour:‍ ‍Blue
Element: Ether
Mantra: “I Speak”
The throat chakra, Vishuddha, is associated with communication, expression, authenticity and purification.
Inability to Communicate Clearly
Fear of Not being Accepted
Difficulty Speaking your Truth
Fear of Judgement
Sore Throat
Neck Pain
C-Spine Issues / Disc Problems
Neck & Jaw Tension
Signs of an Imbalanced Throat Chakra
Yoga Postures to Balance the Throat Chakra
Heart opening yoga postures are helpful for opening and balancing the throat chakra, helping to clean any blockages. Neck stretches that help clear tension in the throat, jaw and shoulders can also be beneficial. Some of my favourites when I am working on this chakra are:
Salamba Sarvangasana - Supported Shoulderstand
Halasana - Plow Pose
Matsyasana - Fish Pose
Marjaryasana - Cat Pose
Bitilasana - Cow Pose
Simhasana - Lion Pose (effective when paired with Lion’s breath pranayama)
Setu Bandha Sarvangasana - Bridge Pose
Herbs that cleans, line and sooth the throat and also those that are blue or purple in colour can be beneficial for bringing balance to the throat chakra. Some to consider include:
Fennel
Cinnamon
Clove
Black pepper
Peppermint
Lavender
Lobelia
Herbs to Balance the Throat Chakra
Blue and aqua crystals are the most commonly used when working with the throat chakra. The most popular ones are:
Saphire
Aquamarine
Amazonite
Turquoise
Lapis Lazuli
Sodalite
Crystals to Balance the Throat Chakra
Essential Oils to Balance the Throat Chakra
Essential oils that sooth the throat and ease the flow of breath from the nostrils through the throat and mouth are particular popular when working to bring the throat chakra into balance. My favourites are:
Peppermint
Basil
Chamomile
Eucalyptus
Jasmine
Rose
Sandalwood
When the throat chakra is balanced we are able to communicate openly, clearly and authentically - without fearing judgement from others. As well as feeling confident in ourselves and being able to speak our truth and needs, which includes establishing and maintaining boundaries, we feel a sense of ease in our neck, jawline and shoulders. Speaking my truth and being able to free my voice, especially talking about my past, has been a key part of my recovery from anorexia.