Manipura (Solar Plexus Chakra)
Jack UtermoehlManipura is the third chakra in the yogic energy system, located at the solar plexus, just above the navel.
It governs personal power, self-confidence, transformation, and inner fire. When balanced, Manipura supports clarity of purpose, resilience, healthy boundaries, and decisive action.
It is the energetic center of digestion—not just of food, but of experience and emotion.
Jewelry Designed for Your Practice
We created this collection to honor the wisdom and beauty of yoga. Each piece is crafted with intention to support your journey, on and off the mat.
Etymology and Meaning
Sanskrit Spelling: मणिपूर
Root Word: "Mani" (jewel) + "Pura" (city or place)
Translation Variations: City of jewels, radiant gem center
Pronunciation: Manipura [MAH-nee-poo-rah]
Manipura symbolizes the radiant core of the self—where action meets intention and energy becomes directed force.
Symbolism and Elements
Element: Fire — transformation, digestion, willpower
Color: Yellow — clarity, confidence, energy
Seed Sound (Bija Mantra): Ram
Associated Sense: Sight
Location: Navel center, solar plexus
Petals: 10 lotus petals — representing vital prana vayus (life force directions)
Mudra and Practices
Mudra: Agni Mudra (Gesture of Fire) — stokes internal heat and strengthens digestion and self-confidence.
Practical Application
In Yoga Practice
- Practice core-strengthening poses: Navasana (Boat Pose), Plank, and twists like Parivrtta Trikonasana (Revolved Triangle)
- Use breath of fire or kapalabhati pranayama to awaken agni (digestive fire)
- Work with balancing poses to cultivate stability and inner discipline
In Daily Life
- Make aligned choices that reflect your true values and direction
- Strengthen boundaries and say yes or no with clarity
- Transform fear or stagnation into courageous action
Quotes and Wisdom
"Stand in your fire. Let it refine you, not consume you."
"Confidence is not domination—it is quiet certainty that you can rise."
Modern Relevance
Manipura speaks directly to a common imbalance in modern life: either overexertion and burnout or insecurity and passivity.
This chakra teaches us how to claim our agency without aggression, to act without attachment, and to digest experience into wisdom. It is essential for leadership, purpose, and healthy self-worth.
Related Concepts
Agni: Digestive and transformative fire—Manipura is its seat
Kriya: Conscious action—empowered through this energy center
Tapas: Discipline and inner heat that refines and strengthens
How to Work with Manipura
Mindset: Embrace challenge as fuel for growth
Actions: Make bold but grounded decisions, take responsibility, and build inner resilience
Reflection: Ask, “Where am I giving away my power—and how can I reclaim it with integrity?”
Suggested Reading
- Wheels of Life by Anodea Judith
- The Bhagavad Gita (explores dharma and action)
- The Fire of Transformation by Swami Rama
Conclusion
Manipura is the radiant fire at the core of your being.
When it burns steadily, you act with courage, clarity, and purpose.
You become a force of transformation—anchored not in ego, but in the deep knowing that your presence matters.
