Expanding horizons: Swadhisthana (Hara or Sacral) Chakra

Swadhisthana means where your being is established. ‘Swa’ means self and 'adhisthana' means established. It is associated with pleasure, sense of oneself, relationships, sensuality and procreation. Swadhisthana, the second Chakra manifests desires, boosts creativity and confidence. It can be blocked by guilt and fear, especially fear of death. When this chakra is out of balance, a person may experience emotional instability, fear of change, sexual dysfunction, depression, or addictions. It is situated three finger widths below the navel.

Its element is water and color is orange. Water is soft and pliable, but also an immense power when out of control. This is just how it is with the Swadhisthana Chakra. When negative emotions arise from the subconscious to the conscious state, we can be completely put off balance. Orange is the colour of the sunrise, which is symbolic of the rising consciousness.

Swadhisthana is associated with the unconscious and emotion. It is closely related to the Muladhara, where the different sanskaras ( potential karmas) lie dormant. Swadhisthana is where these sanskaras find expression.

Methods to balance Swashisthana chakra

Dietary measures:

Coconuts, oranges, melons, other sweet fruits and cinnamon are good for sacral chakra healing. Drink plenty of water.

Being with and in water:

Since the sacral chakra’s element is water, getting outside and relaxing near open water can help open your second chakra. Lakes, rivers, streams or the ocean are all useful. If possible, wade in or dangle your feet in the water to help the energy flow. Taking a bath or a shower can also contribute to balancing your chakra while providing the relaxation needed to keep your emotions flowing.

Be creative.

We create when we find a new solution to an old problem. When we take physical or mental raw materials and transform them into something new, we are using our creative energy.

Yogasanas

Bhujangasana or cobra pose: Lie on your stomach with feet flat on the ground and pubic bone pressed down. Place your hands under your shoulders and slowly lift your head, chest and abdomen while keeping your navel on the floor.

Baddha konasana ( butterfly pose): In a seated position, bring the soles of your feet together. Let the knees drop to the sides and bring the heels close to your pelvis. Lengthen the torso and bend forward towards the floor.

Process your emotions

Get in touch with your emotions and if there are feelings that you are holding onto, process them in a healthy way

Left nostril breathing

Left nostril (Ida nadi) breathing will help open up this second chakra as it brings forth lunar energy. Close your right nostril with the thumb of your right hand and inhale and exhale through the left nostril for 8 to 10 breaths.