Vishuddhi (Throat) Chakra

 The Vishuddhi Chakra is situated in the throat. It is the fifth chakra and the center of physical and spiritual purification. Its name is derived from this function (Visha = impurity, poison Shuddhi = purification). Ether or space (Akasha) is the element associated with this chakra. According to Quantum physics, space is flooded constantly by electromagnetic energy. Akasha means the basis and essence of all things in the material world, it is the first element created. A Lotus with sixteen petals is the symbolic picture of Vishuddhi Chakra.

Functions of Vishuddhi Chakra

Harmful residues are removed from the body on a physical level, and in the mental sphere the thoughts, emotions, consciousness and subconscious are purified and harmonised. This is done by the breath that flows through the throat, and therefore through this Chakra. It purifies and detoxifies the harmful substances that accumulate in the body which primarily come from the food we eat and the air we breathe. This detoxification is brought about by Udana Prana, which has its seat in the throat. Udana Prana enables us to swallow. The food that is broken down by saliva is purified of toxic substances by this Prana and is then passed on to the digestive system. It is important to chew the food thoroughly to facilitate this process.

Blessings from Vishuddhi Chakra

The Throat chakra is about self-expression and talking. When it is open, you have no problems expressing yourself, and you might be doing so as an artist. A balanced Throat chakra can gift us with clear voice, a talent for speech, singing, and also, calm balanced thoughts. It unleashes abundant feeling of happiness and freedom, allowing our abilities and skills to blossom. When it is open, negative experiences are transformed into wisdom and learning. ‘Vak Siddhi’ may be realised in this centre, which is the extraordinary ability to have the words that one speaks come true.

Signs of blockage

Lack of freedom, restriction, anxiety, thyroid and throat problems can point to blockage here. There may be speech impediments and swallowing problems too. People with blocked Vishuddhi Chakra are often blind to their own mistakes and try to put the blame and responsibility for their unhappiness and misfortune on others. Feeling of guilt is considered the most prominent reason for this chakra to block the Kundalini energy moving upwards.

When this chakra is under-active, you tend not to speak much, and you probably are introverted and shy. Not speaking the truth may block this chakra. If this chakra is over-active, you tend to speak too much, usually to domineer and keep people at a distance. You're a bad listener if this is the case.

To keep this Chakra balanced

-          Yogasanas that help to clear throat chakra are  Plow Pose (Halasana), Shoulder stand (Salamba Sarvangasana), and Fish Pose (Matsyasana)

-          Conscious guidance and regulation of the breath, called Pranayama, exerts a strong influence on the Vishuddhi Chakra, at both the physical and astral levels.

-          Singing stimulates the throat chakra

-          Meditation upon this chakra is said to bring about various siddhis like vision of the past, present and future; freedom from disease and old age problems; and destruction of dangers.

F    For meditating on Vishuddhi (Throat) Chakra, CLICK HERE

References:

https://www.yogaindailylife.org/system/en/chakras/vishuddhi-chakra https://www.chakras.net/energy-centers/vishuddhi/about-the-vishuddhi-chakra