The fifth chakra is referred to as the "Throat Chakra." Its Sanskrit name, Vishuddha, translates as "very pure," and is the first of the higher or spiritual chakras on the "chakra ladder." It is located in the notch, or "v" of the collarbones in the lower neck, and is our center of communication, sound, and creative expression through thought, speech, and writing. It allows us to seek and find truth... beyond the limitations of time and space, as well as the conditioning of our families and cultures.
The throat chakra is linked directly to our sense of personal integrity and honor. It gives us the courage and energy to stand up for what we believe in, saying "no" when we need to, and being honest and open when we speak. If we have a balanced Vishuddha, we accept our originality, express our authentic voices, and speak our own personal truth with love and kindness. We're also good listeners, allowing others to feel "heard." If our Vishuddha is out of balance, we often feel ignored or invalidated when we try to express ourselves, so we spend a lot of time trying to make our voices heard. Or, we may find ourselves unable to express our emotions, or struggle for words when we try to speak.
If our Vishuddha is open, we are compassionate and loving with ourselves and others. If our throat chakra is closed, we sometimes shut down our voices and never speak our truth. We can also exhibit emotional or physical symptoms, such as:
Emotional Symptoms:
Fear of not being accepted Suppressed feelings Introverted or shy Highly critical Verbally abusive
Physical Symptoms:
Stiffness/inflammation in neck or shoulders Sore throat/frequent infections/mouth ulcers Earaches or infections Dental issues/TMJ Thyroid issues (hypo-or-hyperthyroid, etc.)
Throat Chakra associated body parts and endocrine glands:
Throat Ears Mouth and teeth Shoulders Neck Thyroid gland
Throat Chakra Affirmations:
"I speak my truth with ease." "I am able to clearly state my needs." "I communicate with others confidently." "I have a right to speak my truth." "I vocalize my feelings." "I am open and honest in my communications." "I know when it is time to speak and when it is time to listen." "I know my truth and am not afraid to speak it." "I honor and claim my true voice." "I have an important voice in the world." "I am confident when communicating with others." "I have integrity and live an authentic life." "I express my gratitude toward Life."
