The number five energy point, or chakra, gives us positive power in our voice, in all its forms, including speaking, thinking, writing and singing. The ability to puzzle through problems in our minds with clear thoughts and solid reason is heightened by the energy of the Throat Chakra. Maintaining an open channel of this energy is one way to keep good communication alive between ourselves and those around us, as hearing is another aspect of this chakra's power. Since Throat Chakra's domain includes the thyroid gland, keeping it open and free-flowing can assist in healthy weight management.

Known as "Vishuddha" in Sanskrit, the Throat Chakra is the first of the three energy centers related to Consciousness.


Associations

Location: Throat Chakra is found at the base of the throat and governs the entire neck area, including the thyroid gland. The arms and hands are also affected by this energy.

Color: Throat Chakra's color is a clear sky blue, that can be tinged with the green of the Heart Chakra (before it on the rainbow) or tinted with the indigo of the Third-Eye (after it on the rainbow). Vishuddha is represented by a 16-petaled lotus.

Element: "Ether", which is the edge of space between the physical and spiritual realms.

Sense: Hearing (sounds)

Sound: HAM, drawn out as haaaahhhhmmmmng

Spirit of Throat Chakra: Since this chakra deals with communication and hearing, it governs understanding of what we say and what's said to us as well. Creativity, in particular in any form of writing or using words in any way, is made stronger. Balancing the body's weight is the physical aspect of Throat Chakra, as is all health matters related to the thyroid gland.


Signs That Throat Chakra Is Out Of Balance

The inability to express yourself and be understood by others is an indication that your Throat Chakra may be blocked. Difficulties with thinking problems through, or listening to "the little voice in your head" can be another sign.

On the physical plane, functioning of the throat itself, swallowing food, recurring sore throats, infections of the throat/mouth, laryngitis and other ailments of the throat area, can be brought on or worsened by muddled Throat Chakra energy. Difficulty losing or gaining weight are also signs of blocked energy from this chakra area.


How To Open Throat Chakra

1. Sit on a mat or floor pillow, comfortably assuming Easy Pose or Lotus. Weave your fingers together and turn your hands over (much like the last part of the children's game "Here's the church, here's the steeple, open the door and see all the people") The tips of your thumbs should be touching, and you should raise your hands up so that they are right in front of the Vishuddha area; no more than a couple of inches from your body. Your elbows should be kept out for support.

2. Close your eyes and focus your thoughts on the Throat Chakra and imagine it swelling with blue light that's as bright as a summer sky. The color expands out around you, fills the room, and coats everything in a peaceful and healing blue haze.

3. Begin chanting HAM, stretching out the sound slowly and softly. Hear and feel the vibration of it.

4. When you have a strong connection with Throat Chakra, release your fingers. Place your right hand (or left if left-handed) near the base of your throat and begin making a circular motion, first clockwise and then counter-clockwise. Continue to mentally see the blue light as it cleans and strengthens the energy contained in the chakra. Concentrate on the contact between your hand and your throat and relax your body.

5. Breathe in the clear blue energy deeply and exhale deeply through your diaphragm. Know that you keep the purest form of Vishuddha energy within you always, and that what leaves is what is not good for you.

6. When you are ready, take another deep breath, exhale and open your eyes. At that moment you know that your Throat Chakra is closed, but that the positive power of it is still with you.


Special Notes

With Throat Chakra you can also open your mouth and "drink in" the blue light, if that feels right to you.

Making an affirmation such as "I am loved" during your meditation can bring you a very secure and pleasant feeling.

You can place blue objects nearby during your meditation, or light a blue candle, to further connect with the energy.

Remember that all of the chakras should be balanced and cleared during one meditation session, as this prevents an over-abundance of a single energy in your body and spirit.