The solar plexus chakra, or Manipura in Sanskrit, translates to, “city of jewels.” Located in the upper belly at the diaphragm, it acts as the center of personal power. This chakra governs personality, ego, and identity, as well as personal freedom, choice, and authenticity.

The solar plexus chakra also has much to do with motivation, willpower, and purpose, which stem from one’s sense of personal efficacy. Self-confidence and view of the self-connect to the solar plexus chakra, as well. Furthermore, this chakra governs the digestive system and its respective organs; as a result, it has jurisdiction over both the gut’s emotional brain and stored emotions.

The solar plexus chakra has a masculine energy and is symbolized by the color yellow (and/or gold) and by a downward-pointing triangle within a ten-petaled flower. Elementally, the solar plexus chakra is associated with fire (as well as the sun) and its mantra is, “I can.” (Accordingly, manifestation work connects to this chakra specifically.)