Throat Chakra (Vishuddha)

Throat Chakra (Vishuddha)

This is the fifth article in the Chakras Series. It is about the fifth chakra – the sky blue chakra centered in our throat.

According to Hindu tradition, the throat chakra also known as Vishuddha meaning purification, is the fifth primary chakra out of all seven chakras in the human body.

The throat chakra is situated in the neck region near the spine with its superficial activation point in the depression of the throat.

It is related to the ears and mouth due to its association with hearing and speaking respectively.

Functions of the Throat Chakra

The functions of the throat chakra do not only offer physical benefits, they offer mental and psychological benefits too. The following are the functions and benefits of the throat chakra.

Physical health

Physically, this chakra is associated with the thyroid gland and the human endocrine system, which is responsible for the release of hormones. The thyroid gland plays a role in releasing hormones that are important for growth and development. Also it regulates the body’s metabolic system, and is responsible for the proper functioning of the larynx, trachea, ears, nose, teeth, mouth, throat and the carotid arteries

When the throat chakra is blocked, you may suffer from many diseases and physical defects such as laryngitis, chronic throat defects, hypothyroidism, autoimmune thyroiditis, lack of motivation, fatigue, hoarse voice, cold sores, jaw pains, gum defects, headaches and obstruction in speech. Also you may resort to lying, gossiping and you will not be able to hear or deliver speech properly.

Effective communication

The throat chakra is connected to self-expression, creativity, writing, listening to words and music, smell and taste. When this chakra is balanced, we speak and listen to people and what they have to say. After listening, we constructively respond with words and emotions.

Communication is harmed when the chakra is blocked. In this case, some people overindulge in eating and drinking in order to keep the throat busy and thus avoid communication. Self esteem is also hurt, and dominant feelings might be those of anger and aggression, hate and bitterness.

Dream state

The throat chakra is also associated with the subconscious state of mind or the dream state. The chakra gains access to your dream state and allows you to see dreams clearly.

Psychic hearing abilities

When the chakra is in balanced and its energy is enhanced, the chakra improves your psychic abilities related to hearing called clairaudience.

Spiritual lessons

When balanced, the throat chakra allows you to take responsibility for your actions, to be strong, courageous, and self confident.

An imbalance in this chakra can make you feel that the world around you is hostile and you will expect aggression and violence from others. You will feel humiliated instead of feeling loved and nourished.

Throat Chakra Blockage

A blocked throat chakra can significantly impact your ability to communicate effectively for fear of ridicule and judgement. A throat chakra blockage can also manifest as the inability to express and realize your truth in the world. When the fifth chakra is open and balanced, you are able to express yourself clearly and honestly in any situation with confidence.

Common Signs of Throat Chakra Blockage

You may find yourself unable to speak your truth when you need it the most, or holding back on expressing your needs and desires. Perhaps, you long for realizing your dreams and living with a strong and clear purpose, but seem to not be able to quite get there. These are common signs that your throat chakra  does not function at its optimal level.

Here are resources to help restoring balance in this chakra:

• Throat chakra healing
• How to open the throat chakra

Physical Symptoms of Blocked Energy in the Throat Chakra

When the throat chakra is blocked or otherwise imbalanced, energy flow is hindered and can lead to physical symptoms affecting the head, mouth, throat, and neck. It is not uncommon to experience neck pain, headaches, hoarseness, and sore throat when the flow of energy through the throat chakra is disrupted.

Some common physical symptoms of blockage include:

• chronic sore throat
• frequent headaches
• dental issues
• mouth ulcers
• hoarseness
• thyroid problems
• laryngitis
• Temporomandibular disorders of the jaw (commonly known as TMJ)
• neck pain

Consequently, the blockage can also impact your physical health. When you experience such signs of physical discomfort, healing practices focusing on the upper body area, in particular your neck and shoulders, can bring relief and allow energy to move more freely. Of course, for serious and recurring symptoms, please consult a physician whom you trust.

Emotional Signs of Throat Chakra Blockage

When the throat chakra is imbalanced, the blockage can also manifest through non-physical symptoms that may impact you at various levels from psychological and emotional, to psychically and spiritually.

Non-physical signs of blockage can be more prevalent. Among the more commons signs are:

• fear of speaking
• inability to express thoughts
• shyness
• inconsistency in speech and actions
• social anxiety
• inhibited creativity
• stubbornness
• detachment

For instance, perpetuated blockages that are fairly significant can cause one to become arrogant, deceptive, domineering, or manipulative. On the contrary, energy that flows freely through the throat chakra promotes effective, truthful communication. You are able to “find you.” You are confident, responsible, and can easily find the right words to express your thoughts.

A blockage of the throat chakra can cause you to become stoic, quiet, and fearful. The imbalance may also create feelings of anxiety, insecurity, and shyness when it comes to self-expression and speaking to others. Public speaking can cause near paralysis when the issue is a blocked fifth chakra.

An imbalance in the throat chakra can adversely affect many aspects of your personal and professional life. You may find you avoid social situations and are more comfortable alone. You may even become distrustful of your inner voice.

What To Do About A Blocked Throat Chakra

Clearing the throat chakra involves learning to let go and trusting your inner voice. Not a small task for a lot of us! Check out the general guidelines for throat chakra healing for practical ideas on how to restore balance in this center.

A few basic steps to clear this chakras include:

• Working through and releasing all negative emotions, including guilt, hurt, and resentment can work wonders to restore energy balance in the throat chakra. Sometimes a good cry can also help alleviate a blockage of the fifth chakra.
• Practicing mindful speech, action, and deeds can help you maintain throat chakra balance. For example, talk openly and honestly with others on a regular basis.
• Meditating on and incorporating the throat chakra’s color, blue, into your life can also calm emotional upheaval. For instance, introduce blue-colored flowers or decor to your home environment.