What is the throat chakra? How to awaken & connect with your Vishuddha energy

Yoga for Chakras Series 5 - Vishuddha (Throat) Chakra
Location – Situated in the neck, at the base of the throat
Association – Primarily associated with the neck and throat, but also with the mouth and ears
Colour – Blue
Element – Space
Meaning – Expression and communication
Crystal – Aquamarine, Blue Calcite, Chrysocolla, Kyanite, Lapis Luzuli, Sodalite. Throat Chakra Crystal Set (all available on our website)
The fifth of the primary chakras is knowns as Vishuddha. Located in the throat, this chakra is linked to communication and expression of self. It is the connection between the emotions and the mind, where you can speak your truth.
Associated with truth, clarity and responsibility, when our vishuddha energy is well balanced, we are able to openly communicate with honesty and authenticity. To be heard, but also truly open to hearing and listening to others. Communication will flow freely but be balanced and compassionate towards others.
Misalignment of this chakra can lead to feelings of depression or low self-esteem. You may feel unable to speak freely or unable to truly express yourself. Conversely, if this chakra is over stimulated, you may find you’re overtalking, unable to make a clear point in conversation or use rude or inappropriate language. Physically a blocked throat chakra can manifest in the thyroid, show up in ear problems or a sore throat or hoarse voice.
As this chakra is so closely associated with the throat, why not try some pranayama techniques to help you connect with and open this chakra?
Simhasana, or Lions Breath is great for relaxing the muscles in the neck and stimulating the vocal cords.
Ujjayi breathing is both calming and balancing and helps to balance out the throat chakra.
Blue is the colour associated with the throat chakra, so try to visualise this colour when practicing meditation or pranayama. Try incorporating a few of the below yoga poses into your yoga practice and help to awaken your vishuddha chakra. Also, incorporating crystals during your yoga practice is helpful, especially using the ones listed above. We have created a super Throat Chakra Crystal Set (Shown below) for those of you who struggle finding your voice.