The throat chakra is the fifth energetic point in the body. It's often depicted as a sky-blue lotus with sixteen petals, symbolizing the sounds of creation. This chakra governs communication, self-expression, and the ability to speak our truth. We often have trouble saying what is on our minds or voicing our feelings and concerns. When working with the throat chakra we are encouraged to speak up for what we believe and honor our inner being.
The throat chakra is crucial for effective communication, both in the verbal and non-verbal sense. This chakra governs our ability to express thoughts, feelings, and ideas, both clearly and authentically. When this chakra is balanced, we are able to speak with confidence, while actively listening to our heart, and expressing our true selves without fear or judgment. Standing up for oneself or setting boundaries is often proven challenging. Most of us tend to stay quiet or shrink ourselves down when faced with confrontation. When we engage in this behavior we are dismissing our core self and creating a sense of unbalance from within. The throat chakra helps us to realign, while embracing how we feel. All while reminding us that it is ok to speak your truth, set boundaries, and communicate your emotions.
When the throat chakra is unbalanced it is manifested in repressed emotion, unspoken feelings, and words we wished we said. Other ways an imbalance can appear is in an over or underactive throat chakra. When the throat chakra is overactive it may show up as talking excessively or interrupting others, being overly critical or judgmental, or difficulty listening or being self-centered in conversations. While an underactive throat chakra includes difficulty expressing thoughts and emotions, fear of speaking or a tendency to stay silent, and feelings of being misunderstood or ignored.
Plants associated with the throat chakra include mint and lavender which help promote clarity in both communication and the mind. Plants that support the respiratory system such as mullen or sage not only aid in lung health but also create open airways for words to manifest. Herbs like caraway and dill that correspond to the air element, which is linked to communication, are also beneficial to the throat chakra.
Ways to balance the Throat Chakra
- Setting boundaries
- Speaking what it on your mind
- Vocal exercises
- Respiratory support
- Journaling
- Singing
Plants associated with the Root Chakra
- Mint
- Lavender
- Sage
- Mullein
- Caraway
- Dill