Vishuddha - The Throat Chakra
- Leila Knight
- Jun 26, 2015
- 4 min read
The colour most frequently associated with visuddha is turquoise or bright blue. This chakra relates to expression. Vishuddha is located in the neck, in the “V” created by the collarbones.
Metabolism is governed by the thyroid gland. The throat chakra acts similarly to the thyroid gland. Metabolism can be broken up into two processes: catabolism and anabolism. Catabolism is the breaking down of substances in order to release energy whilst anabolism is the building up of new tissues from simpler substances. This happens on both the physical and energetic levels.
Visuddha is unique amongst the chakras in that it not only has spirals of energy, but also 7 columns or chambers of energy. These function like bridges. The three columns on the left side of the throat are catabolic, and the three on the right side are anabolic. The seventh column, in the centre maintains balance between these processes, according to Donna Eden.
Behavioural difficulties in this chakra tends to either be having trouble in speaking up or keeping quiet - that is, not being able to clearly communicate with others. This reflects an imbalance in either the catabolic or anabolic processes. Communication is crucial, both within and without the body. Without electrical or chemical communication in our bodies, we'd neither be able to move, nor grow nor defend against diseases. Feelings of guilt easily clog this chakra, so it is important that we speak our internal truth – however painful it may be.
Doubt and negativity are the demons of this chakra. Irritation toward others and voicing of that irritation causes an imbalance within all of the chakras. If we change the way that we view people and focus on their positive aspects rather than the negative, we can begin to address the imbalance in chakras. When we learn to appreciate people for what they bring to us, rather than what they lack/ do wrong, we will experience a shift in energy within ourselves.
Standing up for ourselves and what we believe in, saying “no” when we need to, being open and honest will help keep the flow of throat chakra healthy. This chakra is directly related to our sense of personal integrity and honour.
Physical imbalances in this chakra may manifest in the following forms: sore throat, tonsillitis, laryngitis, thrush, teeth problems, thyroid problems, earache, sinusitis, arthritis in the shoulder, sore neck, shoulders, arms or hands.
If one has a balanced throat chakra, they will be helpful, creative and be able to express themselves with ease and honesty. They know what they want and don’t have trouble in getting it. They are also good listeners.
If a throat chakra is over-active, the person may be highly critical, opinionated and verbally abusive. These people tend to have a “my way or the highway” approach. If a throat chakra is under-active, the person will have difficulty communicating and is likely to be misunderstood or misinterpreted. They tend to have difficulty in being honest and truthful with themselves and things have a tendency to never work out as planned.
An active chakra in one person can trigger the opening of an inactive chakra in another person through resonance. We can change the vibrational rhythm of our lives by activating different chakras through sounds specific to each chakra.
Resonance or rhythm entrainment is where two frequencies lock into phase with each other. When people live together, they can become in tune or resonate with each other. When one truly resonates with something, they are deeply affected.
Through entraining with the vibrational frequencies around us, we experience our connection to the world. Indeed, our ability to communicate with the world depends on this ability, whether we are aware of it or not.
Visuddha means "purification". The element associated with the fifth chakra is sound. Sound is a tool that can be used to purify oneself as sound affects matter. Using sound as a tool can greatly aid the development of one's own consciousness, as well as the evolutionary well-being of all around us.
Mantras are a sound tool that can be used to protect the mind from the traps of non-productive cycles of thought and action. They serve as focusing devices for making the mind one-pointed and calm.
The vibrations from the mantra affects one's consciousness, changing the random pile of thoughts and emotions into a cohesive and graceful pattern. The rhythm of the sound works on a subconscious level and permeates one's inner rhythms.
Mantras are experienced within, over a period of time. Through regular use of the same mantras, the rhythm and vibrations of the mantras become fully effective. Be patient - this can take up to a few months. Each time one uses a mantra, one becomes a little more entrained with it. The power of a mantra is subtle and can be felt by any sincere seeker.
You can also try chanting “Ham”, whilst meditating on the physical location of Vishuddha, or visualising turquoise light surrounding your body or chakra.
Affirmations can be used to help balance the throat chakra, such as:
I am open, clear, and honest in my communication. I have a right to speak my truth. I communicate my feelings with ease. I express myself creatively through speech, writing, or art. I have a strong will that lets me resolve my challenges. I know when it is time to listen. I express my gratitude towards life. I listen to my body and my feelings to know what my truth is. I am at peace.
Sources: http://www.chakra-anatomy.com/throat-chakra.html; http://www.oneworldhealing.net/chakra-healing/vishuddha/; http://healing.about.com/cs/chakras/a/chakra5.htm; Wheels of Life – Anodea Judith; Energy Healing – Donna Eden
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