Each energy centre interacts with different levels of the mind, body and spirit. Taking time to learn about the chakras’ functions, students enter into relationship with the complex nature of human being.
Chakra System as a Learning Device
The chakra system offers the mind and body a tool with which to communicate.
Vishuddha is the Sanskrit word for ‘purification’. The throat chakra is the fifth main energy centre along the spine. While the fourth chakra introduces us to the realms of love and forgiveness, the throat energy centre rules self expression and communication.
Fundamentals of the Throat Chakra
- Name: throat chakra
- Element: ether/vibration
- Sanskrit name: vishuddha
- Colour: clear blue
- Archetype: communicator/silent child
- Position in the body: base of the throat, directly over the thyroid and the larynx
- Associated endocrine gland: thyroid
- Physiological form and functions: regulates the body’s metabolic rate through the production and release of thyroid hormone into the circulation, larynx, trachea, carotid arteries, ears, nose, throat, mouth, teeth
- Emotional or spiritual functions: right use of will, communication, self-expression, speaking one’s truth, self discipline
- Linked to: thoughts, opinions, expression of will, voicing ideas, sense of determination, purpose, intention, discipline
- Affirmations: I hear and speak the truth
- Asanas: plough pose, shoulder stand
- Gifts connected to the throat chakra: courage and guidance, to unleash courage and vision, to have faith in others
- Level of relationship: our personal truth
- Identification of weak throat chakra: chronic throat problems, laryngitis, hypothyroidism, autoimmune thyroiditis, fatigue, lack of motivation, hoarseness, recurrent cold sores, gum disease, jaw pain, headaches, speech impediments. Weakness may contribute to addition problems such as drugs, alcohol, food and gambling.
- Negative thinking traits: I can’t. Nobody listens to me. It doesn’t matter what I say. What does it matter anyway?
- Questions to help chakra consciousness:
- ‘Am I afraid to speak my mind or air my ideas?’
- ‘Do I treat others as I would like to be treated?’
Typically, many throat chakra problems begin in childhood when authoritative guardians do not allow a child to speak her mind. If this is the case, students may like to begin by forgiving the past, accepting it and moving on to speech, singing or acting classes. Humming, chanting and the performance arts help to heal the depleted throat chakra.
As with the throat chakra, all of the seven major chakras of the human body hold secrets of personal development. Understanding and utilising the system can help students overcome negativity and develop strong, vibrant and harmonic lives.
For more details about the research materials used in these articles, please read Chakra Basics Recommended Reading List.
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