Yoga Practice Name
Manipura (मणिपूर)
Description and Steps
| Name and Sanskrit Spelling | The Sanskrit name is मणिपूर, transliterated as "Maṇipūra," and pronounced "mah-ni-poo-ra." |
| Meaning and Symbolism | "Maṇi" means jewel and "pūra" means city or place. Maṇipūra is known as the “city of jewels” and symbolizes personal power, vitality, self-esteem, and transformation. It is the center of willpower and assertiveness. |
| Location | Upper abdomen, around the navel, in the solar plexus region. |
| Associated Element (Tattva) | Fire (Tejas) |
| Seed (Bija) Mantra | RAM |
| Number of Petals | 10 |
| Color Association | Yellow |
| Associated Gland/Organ/System | Digestive system, pancreas, liver, stomach, and metabolic functions. |
| Psychological/Emotional Themes | Confidence, self-discipline, autonomy, ambition, inner strength, and sense of purpose. This chakra governs how we relate to our ego, assert ourselves, and transform inertia into action. |
| Signs of Imbalance (Deficiency or Excess) | Deficiency: Low self-esteem, passivity, indecisiveness, lack of motivation. Excess: Aggression, arrogance, domination, perfectionism. Physical symptoms can include digestive problems, ulcers, fatigue, or liver imbalances. |
| Balancing and Activation Techniques | Core-strengthening yoga poses like Navasana, Plank, and twists; breath of fire (Kapalabhati); chanting the mantra RAM; sun exposure; and practices that cultivate self-discipline and goal-setting. Journaling to understand one’s purpose and overcoming procrastination also strengthen this chakra. |
| Symbol and Deity (optional) | Symbolized by a ten-petaled yellow lotus. The deity associated is Rudra (a fierce form of Shiva), and the animal symbol is the ram, representing strength, drive, and determination. |
| Reflective Prompts / Inner Inquiry | “Do I feel confident in who I am?” “Where am I giving away my power?” “What actions will help me assert my goals with clarity and discipline?” |
| Real-Life Examples or Modern Context | An imbalanced Maṇipūra chakra may result in procrastination, over-control, burnout, or difficulty setting boundaries. A balanced solar plexus supports healthy ambition, integrity, decisiveness, and a radiant personal presence. It allows one to take bold yet thoughtful actions and sustain long-term goals with confidence. |
Practice Level
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