Know Your Body

Each of the seven chakras opens us to a different dimension of our being. Hatha yoga, including postures, helps us open and balance the chakras.

Third Chakra

Manipura, the third energy center of the body, is our center of personal strength and self-confidence. It is about knowing what you want and knowing how to get there. If this energy center is open and balanced, you will experience self-esteem and healthy social relationships. When I think about this energy center, I bring to mind my life's purpose or heart's deepest desire or heartfelt mission.

Third Chakra Meditation

Ask yourself: What is it that gets me up and going every day? Is it something I wish for myself, another, or for the world around me? What are my core values? Am I living my core values? Am I experiencing meaning, purpose and value in my life? What are the underlying themes in my life?

Once you determine your core values and important themes in your life, take a few moments to sense how each of these themes feels in your body and mind. Create a statement that represents your hearts deepest desire or life’s mission. Affirm your heartfelt desire as an accomplished statement of fact using “I” statements. For example, I am healthy, I am at peace, I am making a difference in the lives of others, etc.

Having a life's purpose or mission is important for living a satisfying life. It is a characteristic of people living in the Blue Zones - those 5 areas of the world where people live longer and healthier lives.