Introducing the 7 Chakras: The Throat Chakra
March 24, 2025The next chakra in our Introduction to the 7 Chakras series is the fifth of the seven main energy centers, the Throat Chakra, or Vishuddha in Sanskrit. Vishuddha translates to “pure” or “purification.” Located at the base of the throat, this chakra is associated with the color turquoise and the element ether. The Throat Chakra represents the authentic expression of self through truth, creativity, purpose, and individuality. With an emphasis on honest communication, the Throat Chakra relates to speaking up, being heard, and hearing others.
Signs of a balanced Throat Chakra
● Communicative
● Honesty
● High level of creative expression
● Living authentically
● Feeling centered
● Ability to listen to and hear others
Signs of an imbalanced Throat Chakra
● Inability to communicate clearly
● Difficulty expressing emotions
● Excessive shyness
● Dishonesty
● Highly critical of oneself and others
● Inability to listen to and hear others
Ways to Balance the Throat Chakra
Asanas
Poses that focus on the neck help to open and balance the Throat Chakra. Examples include:
● Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand)
● Marjaryasana/Bitilasana (Cat/Cow)
● Matsyasana (Fish pose)
● Simhasana (Lion Pose)
Breathwork
Simha pranayama, or Lion’s Breath, is a breathing technique that alleviates stress and stimulates the chest and throat. To practice:
1. Find a comfortable seated position.
2. Bring your hands to the knees or the floor and lean forward slightly.
3. Take a deep inhale through the nose.
4. Open the mouth, stick the tongue out toward the chin, and exhale with an audible “ha” sound.
5. Repeat a few times, bringing awareness to the throat.
Affirmations
Repeating specific affirmations helps with self-expression and communication. Examples include:
● I speak my truth.
● I trust my intuition.
● I communicate with clarity and confidence.
● My voice matters.
● I express my creativity freely.
Activating the Throat Chakra empowers us to speak our truth with confidence, truly listen to others, and move through the world as our most authentic selves.