Vishuddha Chakra (also known as Vishuddhi or throat chakra) is the fifth primary chakra in the human body. Vishuddha is a Sanskrit word meaning purification or cleansing, and this chakra represents cleansing not only in a physical level but also in the psyche and mind. Its purpose is to express truth coming from the soul. This chakra is the centre of communication and speech, and it also regulates hearing and listening. It gives a person the power communication and choice.

It is symbolically represented by a lotus with sixteen petals, representing the sixteen abilities that a human being can potentially master. (The sixteen petals are also thought to represent the sixteen vowels in Sanskrit). Its mantra is HAM, and color is blue.

This chakra opens towards the throat and is located between the third and fifth neck vertebrae.

Vishuddha Chakra controls the functions of the mouth, teeth, jaw, throat, neck, esophagus, thyroid gland and the spine.

Some of the physical issues caused by this chakra are sore throats, ear infections, back and neck aches, thyroid disorders, and tooth and gum problems. The mental and emotional distresses caused by an inactive throat chakra are poor communication, poor listener, and speech impediment, weak voice, yelling and dominating conversations.

Overactive Vishuddha Chakra:

When this chakra is overactive, the person tends to yell and dominate others in a conversation, not allowing them to speak or listen to them. Their voice will be loud and shrill, and they become judgmental by overanalyzing things.

Underactive Vishuddha Chakra::

Those who whisper, speak in a timid voice or stammer have an underactive throat chakra. These people find it hard to initiate conversations or find the right words when speaking.

A balanced throat chakra instills a clear voice with resonance, clarity and rhythm. Decision making abilities becomes better and creativity improves due to self expression.

*Vishuddha chakra governs the communication, hence speaking the truth, and voicing one’s thoughts and opinions unblocks this chakra. One can also keep a journal to express inner feelings and realize self-uniqueness. Chanting and singing (and other creative activities such as painting or artworks) will open the Vishuddha chakra.

*Sounds, mantras, and colors can open a blocked or imbalanced Vishuddha chakra. Positive thoughts to this chakra while meditating and visualizing the color blue while doing so is another method to open it. It is also advisable to sit and focus on the fifth chakra under the blue sky or near pure blue water front like a sea or lake.

*Blue gemstones including aquamarine, blue tourmaline, Lapis Lazuli, turquoise, etc. can be used to balance the throat chakra.

*Although a blocked chakra affects everyone, specific attention should be given to the Vishuddha chakra opening in students. A student’s room must be Vaastu shastra compliant and the student must face his/her favorable direction while studying.

*High water content food items open this chakra and include fruits and vegetables, juices. Etc.

Aromatherapy remedy includes essential oils like Sandalwood, rose, ylang-ylang, etc. These can be rubbed near the chakra location while meditating or studying.