In our last chakra series piece, we learned about the root chakra and its connection to “I am,” Today we move up the spine to “I feel” with Svadhisthana – the sacral chakra, positioned just a few inches below the navel. As we go through life, we collect experiences that we feel, digest, and even create through the sacral chakra. As “the dwelling place of self” Svadhisthana gives us the opportunity to find our individuality amongst our families, friends, and culture by responding to experiences with feelings and emotions. These responses tell us a lot about ourselves, our desires, and where we are on our journey.
When the sacral chakra is balanced we can express ourselves freely and with confidence. And with its link to the reproductive organs, Svadhisthana also shows up as a healthy sex life and alignment with sexual pleasure. In other words, we feel comfortable with ourselves and secure in who we are and the abundant world around us. Ahhh, the sweet spot! So how can we take advantage of these benefits all of the time?
Color
The sacral chakra’s associated color is orange. This color represents all of the ideas you imagine that it would – the warm glow of positivity emanates from it expressing success, freedom, determination, and great health. It’s really the perfect color to represent this chakra. If feelings of anxiety or lack of joy and fulfillment are dimming the radiance of Svadhisthana, try surrounding yourself with the color orange.
Foods
Of course – the foods that are best for the sacral chakra are orange. Carrots, mangoes, oranges, yams, and pumpkin all work great. Speaking of pumpkin, have you ever tried pumpkin soup? It’s actually easier than you think. Just chop a pie pumpkin in half, then scoop out the seeds. Rub the flesh side with olive oil then place flesh side down on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 30 minutes on 350℉. Meanwhile, saute half an onion, two garlic cloves, and 1 chopped carrot in a pot. Once softened, add the roasted pumpkin pulp to the pot. Add 2 cups of vegetable stock then simmer for 20 minutes. Puree the mixture until smooth then bring to a simmer. Add ½ cup of coconut milk, cinnamon, crushed red pepper, salt, and pepper to taste. It’s delicious, healthy, and perfect for the season.
Mudras
The Shakti mudra guides the flow of energy down to the sacral chakra where it activates the wheel of emotions so that they flow freely. This redirected energy can be used to heal issues in the pelvis and can also relieve menstrual pain. If you’re looking for even more activation in the womb try holding the Yoni Mudra.
Postures
Trikonasana or side angle pose offers a hinging at the hips that lubricates the joints around the pelvis while waking the organs in that area. You’ll also notice some stress relief and a reduction in pain, especially in the back and hips. You can also try dancer’s pose to strengthen the legs and abdomen surrounding Svadhisthana.
Mantras
The resonating sound of Svadhisthana is VAM. As you vibrate the sound in your throat, you’ll feel the energy move down the front of the body stopping right at the sacral chakra, oscillating the wheel, opening the chakra. This chakra affirms: “I am passionate.” “I value and respect my body.” “Emotions are the language of my soul.” and “I am at peace.”
How do you work with your sacral chakra? Let us know in the comments!